How to make a screen for a bathtub with your own hands: analysis of installation nuances. Do-it-yourself screen for a sliding bathtub Screen for a corner bathtub made of plasterboard

In family life. This is not just a room where hygiene procedures are carried out. For many people, it is a place of rest, relaxation and simply a secluded place where you can be alone. It is unlikely that you will be able to relax in a room where rags for various purposes hang on pipes, and packs of detergents and bottles of household chemicals are placed in the corners.

Therefore, most people strive to make their bathroom as comfortable, beautiful, and clean as possible. Some people are happy with simple painted walls and ceilings, others want to decorate everything with tiles and plastic, while others can afford natural materials like marble and onyx.

But at the same time, everyone certainly wants to cover the space under the bathtub with some kind of screen (unless, of course, the bathtub itself is an exclusive product decorating the bathroom), since contemplating valves and plumbing siphons is an unattractive activity.

Why do you need a screen under the bathtub?

The screen covering the sides of the bathtub performs several functions:

• aesthetic, making the space more beautiful;
• functional - allows you to use the bathroom space more efficiently if you place all household products and tools behind the screen, such as a plunger, brushes for washing the bathtub and even rags for cleaning the apartment;
• sanitary – does not allow water to flow under the bathtub and prevents dust from accumulating under it, which makes cleaning the room easier and makes it more hygienic.

In addition, self-construction of the screen allows you to decorate the bathroom not in a standard way “like everyone else’s”, but individually. For many craftsmen, this serves as a way of self-expression.

According to the installation method, bath screens are divided into:

• solid;
• swing;

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are best known in advance.

Solid screen many will find it the most attractive, as it allows the bath to best fit into the interior of the room. It is the fixed screen that allows you to tile the bathtub in full accordance with, which gives it a uniform appearance.

The advantages of this method include the following:

• a successful solution for the bathroom interior;
• Easy to care for such a screen - a flat surface can be easily tidied up with a damp cloth or sponge;
• The service life of such a screen is practically unlimited.

But there are also some disadvantages:

• difficult access to communications located under the bathroom (usually only a small window is left in the screen), which in the event of a breakdown may lead to the need to completely disassemble the screen;
• there is no way to wash the bathroom floor or check the space for mold;
• there is no place to store household chemicals, since it is impossible to get anything due to the static design;
• installing a screen is quite a labor-intensive task, especially if you have to cover not only one (long) side of the bathtub, but also the end ones;
• It is necessary to leave a small niche for feet under the bathtub, otherwise washing the bathtub will become quite inconvenient.

Hinged screen– used mainly where there is a lot of space to open the doors, as well as in those bathrooms where bathroom furniture sets are used rooms.

In this case, hinged doors make the screen part of this set, allowing you to decorate the room in a single key. But for this, most likely, you will have to make the screen to order, otherwise it will be difficult to achieve complete resemblance to the furniture.

Most often, such screens are made of MDF, similar in color to the shade of the furniture.

The advantages of such structures include:

• highly decorative;
• the ability to place quite large shelves on the inside of the doors for various accessories and household chemicals (and fully opening the doors makes their use as convenient as possible).

• can only be used in large bathrooms or with a small amount of equipment;
• the need to order a screen greatly increases its cost.

Sliding screens- Most Popular. When making it yourself, this type is most often used.

Such a screen consists of two horizontal guides along which two doors move.

A ready-made screen of this type can be bought in a store or ordered if the dimensions of your bathtub are non-standard. Typically, the length of the screen varies from 150 to 180 cm. Its height also changes with the help of sliding legs, which allow you to fit it to a bathroom of any height.

The frames and doors of such screens (both factory-made and home-made) can be made of various materials. For frames most often used:

• – a cheap, fairly durable, moisture-resistant and easy-to-care material of a wide variety of colors and textures (the only drawback is that it can burst if subjected to a strong impact);
• aluminum is stronger than plastic, moisture-resistant, can be painted in any color (but the paint can wear off over time from the surface of the profile;
• an option with a roller mechanism, which allows you to make the frame invisible and facilitates the sliding of the doors (but their price is much higher and it is almost always necessary to order the mechanism individually).

The following materials are used to make doors:

• plastic is a lightweight material, varied in appearance, not afraid of moisture, but can be destroyed if subjected to an accidental strong impact;
• MDF - very similar in appearance, there is a wide selection of textures and colors, but moisture resistance is not too high;
• Chipboard is inexpensive, can be covered with film, but has low water resistance (the material is quite heavy and is more suitable for swing doors);
• plexiglass - a wide variety of textures, moisture resistant and durable, smoothes much better than plastic, but is also fragile under mechanical stress.

Making your own screen

Most often, for self-production, the option with a fixed screen with a technological hole is chosen.

Such a screen can be made in several ways:

• lay out of brick;
• make a wooden or steel frame and cover it with plasterboard or other board material.

Brick screen – a durable stationary structure that can only be removed by completely disassembling it. Therefore, before installing it, you need to make sure that all pipes, their connections, siphons and valves are in excellent condition and do not require repair for many years.

To build the screen wall, you can use well-fired brick (it does not absorb moisture well) or a partition block:

1. First, you need to mark a masonry line on the floor in accordance with the size of the brick. More often the wall is made half a brick thick; it can be placed on an edge, but such a wall will be unstable.
2. The laying is carried out in the usual manner - with bandaging of the seams. To make the masonry more stable, it is connected to the walls of the bathroom, attaching wires to them at the level of each row.
3. When laying out the wall, leave a hole in it of the required size for the communications under the bathroom.
4. Since the bathtub expands upward, bricks can be laid on edge in the upper rows.
5. After the masonry has dried, it is tiled or tiled.

Never use masonry as a support for the edge of the bathtub. To prevent this from happening, a gap of about 1 cm high is left between the top row of bricks and the bathtub, which is then foamed.

This is the simplest and cheapest type of screen to make yourself.

To make it, you need to build a frame, which is then sheathed with sheets of plasterboard. The frame can be made of either wood or metal profiles. When using a wooden frame, it must be painted or treated with special products to reduce the likelihood of rotting and mold.

For a wooden frame you will need:

• bars measuring 40*40 mm;
• screws;
• metal corners.

The operating procedure is as follows:

1. Measurements are taken at the location of the screen and marking of the places where the bars are attached. It should be taken into account that the screen frame should be slightly recessed under the bathtub, taking into account the thickness of the finishing layer (). If you plan to finish the gypsum board with tiles, then you need to add an additional thickness of the tiles and the adhesive layer.
2. The frame bars are prepared according to the measurements: 2 horizontal and vertical bars in the required quantity. If the bathtub is short, then 2 vertical bars along the edges of the frame will be enough. If the bathtub is long, then it is better to add a couple more vertical bars at a distance of 50 - 60 cm from each other for structural rigidity.
3. You need to drill holes in the outer side bars to attach the screen to the walls.
4. Then the frame is connected with screws and corners.
5. The frame is attached to the walls.
6. If necessary, the lower beam of the frame can be secured to the floor.

To make the screen you will need:

• moisture-resistant plasterboard;
• hinged hinges for hanging the inspection hatch door;
• metal latch.

Operating procedure:

1. A sheet of drywall is marked so that it covers the entire frame.
2. The intended panel is cut out using a construction knife.
3. A hatch hole is cut out in the panel and the door is hung and secured with a latch.
4. The screen panel is attached to the frame using screws.
5. Check the stability of the screen and, if necessary, make additional fastenings.

The last stage is finishing the screen surface with the selected finishing material: film, tiles, mosaic.

When using a metal profile as a frame, the procedure is the same, only the drywall is fastened not with screws, but with self-tapping screws.

To make your own screens, you can use not only the materials listed above, but also many others:

• Wood - you just need to choose wood that is not afraid of dampness. Such a screen can be made in the form of wooden blinds - that is, with gaps that will help ventilate the wood and the space under the bathroom.
• Plastic lining - mounted vertically on the frame so that water does not linger in the seams. You can also make a screen with narrow apertures.
• Fabric – for such screens, quick-drying fabrics that are easy to care for are selected: polyester, nylon, membrane “breathable” fabrics. Such screens are obtained by upholstering or covering the frame with the selected material.
• A ready-made inspection hatch of a suitable color can be used as an inspection door.

Sometimes screens are made whose walls are tilted outward using special fittings. On the inner surface of such screens there are narrow but long baskets for storing cleaning products, sponges and other accessories needed in the bathroom.

Often they come with a ready-made screen made of the same material. All components are supplied together with screen shields.

It is more difficult to make a screen for a corner or curved bathtub. A bent metal profile covered with plastic is better suited here.

If you don’t want to equip your bathroom with a boring purchased screen, then you can always make an inexpensive and beautiful homemade one. True, you will have to spend time and make efforts, but the product will be unique, and your bathroom will be exclusive.

Having completed all the renovation work in the bathroom, you will probably need to hide the unsightly-looking communication pipes under the bathroom that spoil the entire interior. A great way to disguise pipes and all unsightly corners is to make a screen under the bathtub from plastic panels with your own hands.

By making it more functional, for example, by installing various shelves in the created free space, you can easily hide all household and household items - brushes, powders, gels - from prying eyes.

Depending on the design, screens are made solid or sliding. Everyone is capable of solving some of their own operational problems.

Sliding screen for bathtub

The simplest and most common solution for a bathtub would be a solid screen (pictured). The easiest way to do it yourself is to do it yourself. However, the disadvantage of this design is that it tightly closes the entire space under the bathroom, including the water supply and sewerage pipes. If there is a need to repair or replace plumbing, this screen will have to be disassembled.

Important! A solid screen involves the use of plastic plumbing pipes that do not rust. Before installing it, check the serviceability of all plumbing fixtures and the absence of fungus and mold on the wall surfaces.

A sliding screen is somewhat more practical than a solid one, but its appearance is less aesthetic. Making a sliding screen yourself is a little more difficult, but the results are worth it. In addition, niches for things can be attached in the space between the outer wall of the bathtub and the plastic panels. Shelves installed vertically on gas lifts are very convenient.

Solid screen for bathtub

Shape of bath screens

Before you start making a bath screen, you need to decide on its future shape.

So, there are three types of bath screens:

• blank wall - this type of screen completely covers the entire space under the bathroom, without providing any recesses for convenience or niches for things. When installing it, you should carefully double-check the serviceability of all plumbing fixtures and pipes, since this will be problematic later. Typically, these types of screens include a small door to check the condition of the plumbing.

Dull screen

• having a recess for the feet - this type of screen is more convenient to use. The notch will help you stand close to the bath without experiencing any discomfort when washing the bath itself or bathing children in it.

Bath screen with foot recess

• a screen with an inclined angle, as in the previous case, is also quite convenient to use and is created purely for the comfort of using the bathroom.

Slanted Angle Bath Screen

• a curved or angular screen is necessary for owners of round bathtubs. It is impossible to purchase it ready-made in the store. This screen is made only by hand.

Curved bath screen

Making a frame for a bathtub screen

So, you have chosen the shape and type of screen you need, the next step is making a frame for the subsequent installation of plastic panels. To implement this work, you will need the following parts: a starting strip (usually the same color scheme as the screen), a profile, dowels, “liquid nails” glue and, in fact, the plastic panels themselves. Installation of the frame involves the use of the following tools: a stationery or construction knife, an electric screwdriver, a building level, a hammer drill, a square and a stapler.

Marking

The first thing to do is to mark the future supporting structure on the surface of the floor and walls. Using a building level, draw a line in a vertical direction at the place where the screen will adjoin the surface of the walls. Consider the top side of the bathtub as your starting point. From the resulting side lines, parallel to the location of your bathtub, draw another line equal to the thickness of the prepared plastic panels. For ease of installation of the structure, it is necessary to lay appropriate marks from the wall lines along the entire length of the floor surface along the length of the bathtub.

Frame installation

This is followed by the assembly of the front and side frame elements. To do this, measure and cut the beams or profile to the required length, join them along the marks and secure them. To make the frame more rigid and durable, make one or two additional transverse fastenings from the profile. In the case when the frame is made of wooden beams, screws and self-tapping screws can be used as fasteners. The profile uses specialized fasteners.

Attention! Attach the profile to the floor very carefully, without using much force, so as not to damage the tile.

When installing the frame, you should also provide space for a viewing window (if you plan to make one). For it, it is necessary to make additional jumpers in a specified place of a vertical shape: canopies will be attached to the right side, and furniture magnets to the left.

The frame of a sliding screen with vertical shelves requires additional fastening elements on which gas lifts are installed.

Curvilinear frame for a bathtub screen

To model the frame of a curved screen, markings are made on the floor surface using a building level that exactly follow the curves of the bathtub itself. According to the applied markings, the profile is laid - in places of bend along the side edge, cuts 10 cm long are made on it. Afterwards, a hole is punched in the profile and fastened with dowels and screws to the floor surface along the marked line. The upper profile is glued with glue.

Screen assembly from plastic panels

Technologically, assembling a plastic screen is a fairly simple task and consists of the following. First, a starting strip is attached with self-tapping screws along the perimeter of the installed supporting frame itself. In places where the product will adjoin vertical and horizontal elements, make a cut at an angle of 45 degrees. After this, strips are cut from plastic and inserted into the grooves of the prepared starting strip until the screen is completely filled. Plastic panels of the sliding screen are installed between the guides and handles are glued to the outside. Corner joints are covered with plastic corners.

Sliding plastic panel

At the end of the installation, an inspection door should be installed on the fixed jumpers (usually on the side of the drain siphon). Such plastic doors can be bought at any hardware store or made independently from the remaining panels. For additional protection against moisture getting inside the screen, the gaps between the floor surface and the frame fasteners are filled with a special neutral-colored sealant.

Installing panels on a curved screen is somewhat different, because it is also necessary to take into account the bending angle.

Attention! Too wide plastic panels are not suitable for making a curved screen, since it is impossible to bend them at home. Panels up to 250 mm wide are ideal.

Special containers with many different shelves for storing, for example, household chemicals and many small items for the bathroom will help to properly organize the space under the bathroom. It is much more convenient and pleasant to store household items in them. Such containers are even produced on wheels, which makes them easier to move under the bathroom.

Under the bathroom you can make convenient shelves for storing various household items.

A sliding bath screen is often equipped with stationary shelves on which brushes, sponges, all household chemicals and bath accessories are also stored.

How to make a plastic screen for a bathtub with your own hands: video

Plastic screen under the bath: photo

Almost finished. The walls and floor are lined with luxurious tiles, fortunately, today the assortment of them in stores can drive not only the average person into a stupor, but also an experienced designer. The new faucets sparkle with nickel and gold, the stretch ceiling shimmers with reflections, and the new bathtub pleases with its extraordinary whiteness. But its facade doesn’t fit into all this splendor: all the unsightly communications, legs are visible, and the outside of this modern miracle of plumbing doesn’t harmonize with the interior created with such love.

What to do?

Naturally, something needs to be covered. How? Should I make it myself or buy it ready-made? This is the question that is almost always asked by the happy owner of a bathroom updated in accordance with the latest fashion trends. And we will try to help. Let's talk about what these designs are like and how to do it yourself, if this wise Solomonic decision was made.

Short review

Why Solomonic? Because it’s not always possible to buy what you want and what will fit the size and, most importantly, the configuration of a new bathtub, which can be quite varied. Therefore, let's talk about what types of this design there are in general, how to make a screen for a bathtub yourself and, of course, what it is made of.

And why is it needed at all, by and large? In addition to being decorative, as mentioned above, a screen under a bathtub can perform several more functions. Firstly, it will protect communications from mechanical influence from the outside, and secondly, behind it you can arrange a warehouse for useful, but not very attractive in appearance, things.

Plastic

This option also does not require special material costs. But you will still have to work longer here. Do-it-yourself plastic bath screens are made either from large panels, the designs of which, by the way, are also very diverse, or from individual pieces of PVC cut to height.

To make such a design, you need to buy, in addition to the main component, a profile specially designed for this purpose, and decorative corners.

Process technology

We cut out blanks of the required height from plastic. We measure the length of the future screen, and then cut off the excess pieces from the guides. We make markings on the floor - draw a line along which we will install the lower profile. Then we directly install the screen under the bathtub. We insert PVC panels directly on the floor into the upper and lower guides. Then we apply glue along the marking line (in our case, these are liquid nails), install the upper part of the structure under the side of the bathtub, and the lower part directly on the glue. We wait until the glue dries, decorate the edges of the screen with corners (we place them on the same liquid nails). You can use it! True, such a screen under the bathtub will only serve a decorative function. It is not recommended to use it as a place to store any items - there will be too much fuss to constantly take out and then insert at least one of the panels, not to mention several.

If you still want to have a sliding rather than a solid structure, then it is best to adopt the following method.

A la wardrobe

This would be, perhaps, the best option of all that exist. Installing a screen for a bathtub according to the principle of a wardrobe is good in all respects. Firstly, the installation procedure itself is relatively simple, and secondly, the choice of doors for such a design is simply huge. These can be either ordinary MDF panels or mirror or glass doors. The latter, by the way, can be ordered with a pattern applied in accordance with your own wishes, thanks to which it will be possible to fit the screen into the existing interior as organically as possible.

What to do?

Go to the construction market, having previously measured the height and width of the space under the bathroom. There we find a pavilion that offers all the components for sliding wardrobes and buy guides, appropriate fittings and dowels (regular and “bug”). And then we select the doors. These can be ordinary MDF panels of any color, mirrored, or glass with beautiful prints. Here everything depends on the contents of your wallet and the design idea itself. The store employees will certainly cut out the required pieces for you according to the given sizes, and all you have to do is pay for the purchase. After which we go home with the purchased material, where we begin installation.

Description of work

We cut out the guides in accordance with the width of the opening, then fasten the upper one to the bathroom itself with dowels, and the lower one with self-tapping screws to the floor. We mount the fittings on the doors and insert them into the guides. We check that the wheels fit well into the grooves, since it is thanks to them that the doors will move apart. As you can see, the installation process is quite simple. The only negative is the rather high cost of such material. But the result is worth it.

How to make a screen for a bath: other options

Other methods of making a screen for a bathtub are more labor-intensive. This is the manufacture of a structure made of plasterboard, the installation of which involves creating a frame from profiles, foam blocks, bricks, etc. As a rule, such screens are subsequently covered with ceramic tiles - the same as the bathroom itself, or in a different, contrasting color. It really depends on the wishes of the master himself. Each of these methods is quite labor-intensive and requires a separate detailed description. The only thing I would like to note is that making a screen from plasterboard will be the best option if you have a bathtub of a non-standard configuration. This material is very light and easy to work with, it takes a given shape well, so it can be used to decorate any surface.

So making a bathtub screen with your own hands is not such a difficult task. You just need to choose the appropriate option that will match the design of your bathroom and the functional features of the installed plumbing.

Modern acrylic bathtubs and trays are often equipped with special aprons that hide the unflattering metal support of the structure and cover the empty space under the bowl. As for ordinary bathtubs, they are often sold without such devices and, unless the sanitary ware is designer and has decorative legs, the appearance of the bowl leaves much to be desired. Attractive screens under the bathtub can correct the situation. What you need to know when choosing a finished panel and how to assemble the structure yourself - read below.

A bath screen is a kind of apron, the main components of which are a frame made of steel or aluminum and waterproof panels. Behind such panels you can easily hide household chemicals and personal hygiene products (this issue is especially acute in small rooms, the space of which does not allow for many modules to be placed). Often, an acrylic bathtub is sold complete with a screen. Otherwise, the panel can be purchased separately or made independently.

Folding bath screens, which are usually equipped with shelves for storing detergents, look stylish and modern. The disadvantage of such designs is that they require free space next to the bathroom.

Today there are the following types of screens: hinged, sliding, stationary. Designs are selected depending on the shape of the bathtub. So, for plumbing fixtures that are close to the walls, a front screen is suitable, and for a shaped structure or a bathtub with one open side, a corner acrylic panel is suitable. Screens are often made with internal shelves and a pull-out storage system.

Choosing doors for the bath

A popular option that allows you to effectively hide household chemicals and close the space under the bathroom are hinged doors: they make it possible to easily and quickly get the necessary detergents, tools and any other household equipment, while looking attractive and stylish.

When choosing doors for a bathtub, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Doors must be made of moisture-resistant material (for example, PVC, plexiglass). If the screen finishing is made of wood, then the wood must be ship grade (moisture resistant). Teak, wenge, and larch are suitable.
2. The handles should be comfortable, made of stainless steel or plastic. The same goes for hinges and fastenings.
3. Products should be selected to match the interior of the bathroom. This applies to both colors and materials. For example, mirror screens would be the ideal choice for modern bathrooms, and panels made of wooden planks would be the ideal choice for rustic interiors.
4. If the bathroom already has furniture (hanging cabinets, sink cabinets), then it is better that the doors are the same as the fittings or as similar as possible.

When choosing products, it should be taken into account that the doors can be installed under bathtubs, next to which there are no other plumbing fixtures and household appliances, since nothing should interfere with the opening of the doors.

MDF bath screen: pros and cons

The bathtub door can be made of almost any material. The main requirement is that it must be moisture resistant. At the same time, it is desirable that the surface of the panels be smooth: this way, dirt can be easily and quickly removed from it. One of the popular materials for making screens is MDF.

Fiberboard has the following advantages:

1. Environmental friendliness. Today, MDF boards are made by pressing without the use of binding fibers, so the material is absolutely safe for humans and the environment.
2. Availability. Compared to plexiglass, MDF is much cheaper.
3. Attractive appearance. Externally, the material resembles wood, which makes the interior cozy and remains relevant regardless of fashion trends.
4. High density. This makes MDF resistant to hot vapors and moisture.
5. Wide range of design possibilities. Panels can be made from fiberboard in any style and color.

The disadvantages of the material include its fire hazard: MDF boards are not recommended to be placed next to flammable objects or wiring. Also, MDF is not 100% moisture resistant: with extensive accumulation of moisture on the surface of the material, even a well-fixed MDF board installed on a frame begins to tilt under its own weight and deform.

Sliding bath panel

A sliding panel for a bathtub is a structure that consists of a durable frame with guides or a roller mechanism and mobile sashes. The panel doors work on the principle of compartment doors, allowing you to quickly get what you need and get to communications.

Sliding screens can have two or three doors (depending on the length of the bathroom), and be decorated using photo printing, mirrors, or frosted glass. Some companies offer custom-made panels: a beautiful screen will be an effective addition to the design of the room and will emphasize the style of the interior.

Sliding bath doors are ideal for small sanitary facilities as they do not take up much space when operating.

The most affordable sliding panels for bathtubs are plastic. Plexiglas panels are considered the highest quality sliding screens: Plexiglas screens are 100% moisture resistant, have a smooth operation, are made of high-quality materials, can be made in various colors, and have a mirror surface.

How to make a sliding screen for a bathtub with your own hands

The easiest way to install a sliding screen with your own hands is to buy a ready-made set of doors. If you can’t purchase a kit, then you can make the panels yourself. Most often, plastic, aluminum profiles, corners and fasteners are used to make a homemade screen.

The sliding panel installation process involves:

1. Applying markings for the frame. The marking depends on the height and length of the bathtub, and is done using a building level. The starting point, in this case, is the side of the bathtub.
2. Frame installation. Aluminum profiles are connected in parallel using corners.
3. Installation of guides to the upper and lower frames.
4. Cut the plastic and install the sheets into the grooves of the guides.

The valve can consist of two or several elements. For convenience, metal or plastic handles are attached to the panels.

Making a monolithic screen for a bathtub from plasterboard

The easiest one to make yourself is a stationary screen for a bathtub, the main function of which is decorative (the panel will hide the space under the bathtub, but it will be impossible to store household chemicals behind it). To carry out the work you will need: drywall, guides with a supporting profile, material for external finishing.

To make a monolithic screen you need:

1. Make markings for the profile for drywall. The top edge of the bathroom is taken as the starting point for marking. At the same time, during work it is necessary to use a building level.
2. Install a frame made of a metal profile (most often a UD profile is used). For rigidity, not only the frame, but also the guides should be mounted.
3. Cut the sheet to size and sheathe the frame. If the screen is crossed by pipes, special holes must be cut in the material for communications.
4. Putty the joints between the sheets of drywall (if any).
5. Finish the drywall. The sewn material can be decorated using tiles, tiles, wooden moisture-resistant panels, and plastic.

In the same way you can make a screen with a door. To do this, you will need to purchase an inspection hatch from a hardware store and cut a hole in a sheet of drywall for its installation.

How to make a screen for a bath (video)

Modern production of bath screens offers a wide selection of products, varying in type, design, and material of manufacture. Today, everyone can choose a panel depending on their own preferences, parameters and design of the bathroom, and the shape of the plumbing. In addition, you can easily make panels for a bathtub with your own hands. Install attractive and practical screens and enjoy the functionality and attractive appearance of your own bath!

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You can also finish it using ceramic tiles. But you will need to first cover the frame with moisture-resistant plasterboard. But, first things first: so, the first finishing option.

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Method number 1: covering the screen with plastic

First of all, you will need to cut the plastic panels to the size of the prepared frame. If they are short in length, then you can mount them vertically in 2 pieces. They can be adjusted to the required dimensions using a mounting knife. But be sure to make preliminary markings on them to prevent the occurrence of a crooked cut. Then you need to start fixing them with plastic screws. But don’t forget to leave room for the hatch while doing this. Measure its parameters and make a mark on the frame. It will need to be subsequently installed to such a depth that it is in the same plane as the screen. The hatch is fixed to a metal frame. It will need to be secured with self-tapping screws. Then you will need to install the hatch itself and secure its door first with wedges. Then you take metal screws, and use them to fasten it with your own hands through the frame to the frame of the screen.

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Method number 2: finishing with tiles

If you decide to make a screen in the bathroom from ceramic tiles, then the course of work will be slightly different. First of all, it will be necessary to install the hatch according to the scheme described above. Then drywall is mounted on the frame. It must be highly moisture resistant. This material is fixed using self-tapping screws. It is necessary to screw in these fasteners at right angles; this is done using a screwdriver.

At the next stage, you can begin installing the tiles. Here you should use special glue. It is easy to use and allows finishing without any hassle. Apply the adhesive to the ceramic tiles using a spatula. You should use it to create an even layer. Then the finishing material is glued to the drywall. When the installation of the tiles is completely completed, you will need to grout the joints.

In order to hide all communications, pipes and drains that are located under the bathroom, a special screen is installed. It mainly carries an aesthetic load so that the appearance of the lower part of the bathtub does not spoil the design of the bathroom. Some modern bathtubs already come complete with screens that perfectly match it in appearance and functionality, but not all of them. In order not to spend money on buying a ready-made and not very cheap screen, you can think about how to make a screen for a bathtub with your own hands. This not only allows you to significantly save money, but also install a screen that will fully suit the tastes and preferences of the owners; in addition, you can equip the screen with several useful functions.

What to make a bath screen from?

There are a huge number of building materials that can be used in a wet bathroom environment. So we can distinguish the following options, based mainly on the material that will form the base of the screen:

1. Laying a brick screen;
2. Sheathing with moisture-resistant plasterboard followed by finishing with any suitable material (tiles, plaster, wallpaper, etc.)
3. Sheathing with moisture-resistant MDF, OSB with subsequent finishing;
4. Plastic sheathing.
5. Purchasing a ready-made screen or a set of sliding doors.

In addition to the store-bought solution, only plastic sheathing actually allows you to form a screen without the need for further finishing. This material is quite acceptable and practical, not affected by moisture and biologically neutral. It is easy to clean and quite durable, even if one or more strips of plastic sheathing are damaged, it is easy to replace. Still, for a durable design or if plastic simply does not fit into the interior of the bathtub, you should choose one of the remaining three options.

In any case, the screen for the bathtub, no matter what it is assembled from, must meet several requirements:

• To access the main sewerage units and laid communications, there must be a technological opening that can be closed with a door or plug;
• It is advisable to seal the space near the floor to separate the floor under the bathtub from the rest of the bathroom;
• The screen is not a supporting structure and the bath should not rest on it.

For convenience, a small recess is formed in the screen, most often with a slope so that it does not interfere with the legs. Some craftsmen, if there is free space under the bathtub or on the side of it, install an additional cabinet or drawer as part of the screen for household chemicals or detergents.

Laying a brick screen

In this version everything is simple. Along the border of the bathtub or from wall to wall near which the bathtub stands, a brick wall half a brick thick is erected. It is imperative, as when constructing a regular wall, that the brick is altered, that is, each next row is shifted by half a brick. A window is formed in a place convenient for access to the bathtub drain. In order to cover it, it is enough to buy or make a door and attach it to the awnings.

Even though the brick wall is quite strong, you still shouldn’t rest the bathtub on it, so between the last row of bricks and the edge of the bathtub there should be a gap of about 1-2 cm, which is filled with foam. After this, you can cover the brickwork with ceramic tiles or any other suitable material that will match the design of the room.

If you liked this option, but you don’t know how to lay brick, read about the basics of working with it.

Sheathing with plasterboard

The most flexible method in terms of forming the shape of the screen. Everything depends only on the desire of the owner. Installing a screen under a bathtub begins with forming a frame. For this you can use either a metal profile or a 40x40 mm wooden beam. The tree must also be protected from moisture, otherwise rot and fungus will inevitably appear.

When installing the frame, it is taken into account that the facing material will also be sheathed on top of the drywall. So along the wall to which the side of the bathtub adjoins, a line for installing the edge of the profile is marked so that it is recessed from the edge of the bathtub by the thickness of the subsequent cladding. For example, if you plan to cover the screen with tiles, then an indentation of 12.6 mm + 5 mm + 4-6 mm (tile thickness) = 21.6-23.6 mm is made. The line must be continued along the floor along the entire length over which the screen will extend. In this case, a plumb line is used to adjust relative to the edge of the bath.

A UD profile is fixed along the perimeter of the resulting line. The profile that is attached to the floor should additionally be glued with sealant to prevent water from getting under and from under the bathtub. Next, the CD profile is installed vertically and secured to the supporting profile. The distance between the profiles is maintained at 600 mm, and additional racks are installed in the place where there will be a technological hole or recess for installing a drawer or cabinet.

A ledge for feet can be formed in the center of the bathtub. To do this, the profile on the floor is not installed in a straight line, but in the shape of the letter U with a recess for the bathtub of about 10-15 cm. The racks in the niche will be installed at an angle.

Example of a tiled plasterboard screen with a lip

Moisture-resistant green plasterboard is used for cladding. It is cut to the appropriate length, equal to the height of the screen minus 2 cm. Fastening is done with hardened black screws every 15 cm around the perimeter of the sheet and in the center along the profile. In this case, it is important to choose the correct length of screws so as not to inadvertently screw the top screws into the acrylic bathtub. The sheets are attached with 1 cm indentations from the floor and the edge of the bathtub. This is necessary to prevent swelling of the drywall. After all, even though it is moisture resistant, it will still begin to deteriorate from direct contact with water.

When the sheathing is completed, the drywall is primed and sheathed with any suitable material, such as ceramic tiles, decorative plaster, moisture-resistant wet wallpaper, film materials, etc.

Video: example of installing a permanent screen under a plasterboard bathtub

Sheathing: MDF, OSB

The entire process is virtually identical to drywall sheathing. The only difference is that additional ventilation slots should be made in the screen on the opposite side of the technological hole. To do this, it is enough to make a slot only 2-3 cm wide and 5-10 cm long, which can be covered with a neat plastic grill. MDF sheets must be primed on both sides before being fixed to the frame.

Screen made of plastic lining

The simplest option would be to line the bathtub with plastic lining. This option immediately produces a beautiful finished surface and does not require additional processing or plating. If necessary, the screen can be easily disassembled to gain full access to the space under the bath.

In addition to the lining itself, you will also need a starting profile, which is strengthened along the perimeter of the future screen. From the top, under the edge of the bathtub, a beam or metal profile is first secured to the walls, and then a plastic starting profile. For the reliability and strength of the entire structure, it is also advisable to secure the profiles in the middle of the screen. This is especially important when using cheap options for plastic lining, which can become deformed and lose shape even under small mechanical loads. The lower profile, as in the previously described options, should preferably be glued to the floor using sealant.

Strips of plastic are cut using a regular construction knife and the edges are inserted into the starting profile. This way the entire surface of the screen is covered. At the site where the technological hole is formed, a rectangle is cut and a special plastic door is inserted, which are sold in the same places as the lining itself.

Since there is an unimaginable variety of plastic lining on sale in terms of color, pattern and even texture, choosing the right option will not be difficult.

Sliding version of the plastic screen for the bathroom

As for the sliding screen for the bathroom, its creation requires either imagination or a ready-made installation kit from any hardware store. If you don’t have the second one, we recommend looking for ways to implement it from folk craftsmen. One of the options is in the video below.

In conclusion

As can be seen from the presented options, only the use of plastic allows you to assemble a bath screen, which can be quickly dismantled and put back together if necessary. However, other methods make it possible to use a significantly larger amount of facing materials so that the screen does not stand out against the background of the overall interior design, especially when it contains no plastic whatsoever.

In any case, although installing a bath screen with your own hands will take a little longer than installing a ready-made purchased one, the result will be much more acceptable for maintaining a holistic picture of the interior. In addition, a hand-assembled screen will cost less and will be more reliable than most ready-made ones that are offered for an installed bathtub.

Video: step-by-step photo instructions for creating a decorative podium for a bathtub

A bathtub screen is a structure installed between the edge of the bathtub and the floor, covering the plumbing communications. It carries more of an aesthetic load so that the appearance of the side edge of the bathtub does not fall out of the integrity of the bathroom design.

Types of screens

There are three main types of bathroom screens:

• Sliding;
• Fixed, removable;
• Stationary.

Let's look at each in more detail.

Sliding screens

They are the most functional and convenient. The frame of this design consists of a fixed base and guides along which the doors move. Thanks to ease of access, various household items can be stored under the bathtub. Among the disadvantages of a sliding screen, it is worth noting the discrepancy between quality and price - given the high cost, their design is quite flimsy. They are mounted by wedging between the bottom surface of the bathtub and the floor, which is not very reliable, so they often have to be reinstalled.

Fixed removable screens

Fixed removable screen

This type of screen is usually used in combination with acrylic bathtubs. Its main advantage is its presentable appearance and the ability to manufacture molds of any complexity. Plastic screens under the bathtub are quite difficult to remove, so you can only store absolutely unnecessary things behind them.

Stationary screens

Stationary screens are not available as finished products; they are manufactured individually for each case. They can be divided into two types:

• With full access to the space under the bath;
• With partial access - only for maintenance of communications.

Doors for fixed screens come in a variety of designs:

• Sliding;
• Swinging open;
• Reclining;
• In the form of a hatch;
• In the form of an accordion;
• Other non-standard solutions.

Materials for making the screen

Various materials can be used to construct the screen:

• Metal;
• Drywall, fiberboard, MDF, OSB;
• Glass;
• Plastic;
• Brick;
• Combinations of these materials.

Basic requirements for bathroom screen material:

• Moisture resistance;
• Practicality;
• Durability;
• Ease of operation;
• Resistance to fungi and mold.

Installation of a screen under a plasterboard bathtub

Important! Before constructing a screen under the bathtub, you should carefully inspect the condition of the plumbing communications and, if necessary, put them in order.

To build a screen under the bathtub you will need the following set of tools:

• Drill;
• Hand saw;
• Jigsaw;
• Square, ruler and pencil;
• Plumb;
• Level;
• Metal corners;
• Screws and dowels;
• Bars 40x40 mm.

The screen frame is made of wooden blocks with a cross-section of 40x40 millimeters. They are installed along the edges of the bathtub and mounted to the walls and floor.

To make the frame, you can use a metal profile.

• Preparatory work;
• Fastening.

There are several ways to install a bathtub, but the most common is a corner one. It saves space and will be suitable for any layout.

1. Using a plumb line, draw vertical lines on the walls that the bathtub touches. Don't make any effort, they will have to be erased.
2. Draw lines parallel to them inside the contour of the bath, at a distance of 25 mm.
3. Now the first lines drawn can be erased.
4. Mark the corner point of the bathtub on the floor; to do this, use a plumb line installed on the corner of the bathtub that is not adjacent to the walls.
5. Draw a square with a 25 mm edge, so that the point is its corner, and the figure itself is located inside the contour of the bathtub. This indentation is the necessary margin for installing the screen and its cladding.
6. From the corner of the square located inside the contour of the bathtub, draw lines to the verticals drawn on the walls.
7. Prepare wooden blocks according to the following parameters:
   • For vertical elements: bars whose length is equal to the height from the side to the floor - 4 pcs.
   • For horizontal elements:
     • Bars 80 mm long shorter than the width of the bath – 2 pcs.;
     • Bars 120 mm long shorter than the length of the bath – 2 pcs.

Fastening the wooden frame

After preparing the building material and carrying out marking work, you can begin installing the screen frame under the bathtub.

First, let's install the smaller side of the screen:

• Using a corner of four bars, assemble a short frame;
• Drill 2 holes in the frame to attach it to the wall;
• Make similar holes in the wall;
• Secure the frame to the wall using dowel connections that match the material from which it is made (hollow wall, monolithic wall, block wall or brick).

To make the structure more rigid, it is better to additionally screw the frame to the floor.

Installation of the other side is carried out in a similar way. Both frames should be fastened with screws.

Screen

To make the screen you will need two 16mm chipboard panels or a sheet of moisture-resistant plasterboard, the smaller panel of which corresponds to the size of the short frame.

Similar to the installation of the frame, the installation of the screen is carried out in two stages:

• Preparatory work;
• Consolidation.

Preparatory work for installing the screen

The space under the bathroom is rarely pleasing to the eye, because this is where communication pipes, washing powders and other chemicals are located. And to organize this corner of the room, they use a bath screen - a kind of screen that covers the front part and sides all the way to the floor. But besides the aesthetic aspect, such a device can also perform a protective function, protecting the bathtub from accidentally tipping over, or become an additional place for storing various small items. Modern plumbing fixtures are sold with ready-made screens, but if you were unable to buy a kit or want to upgrade your old model, you can easily make it yourself.

What kind of bath screen can there be: types of models

For each bathtub, you can choose the most suitable design, taking into account the size of the free space and the geometry of the model itself. It is also important to understand whether you will only cover or use the space under the bathroom for storage (in the second case, and from which side to make access).

Based on the type of construction, there are several types:

1. Deaf - the simplest version of a homemade screen. The bathtub is laid with brick or plasterboard, and the top is decorated with tiles or mosaics. As a result, the structure looks solid and blends very effectively with the finish of the floor or walls, but the area under the bathroom remains unused. If you decide to install a blind screen under the bathroom, be sure to provide a small door for access to communications, otherwise in case of an emergency you will have to dismantle the structure.

2. Hinged - a modified version of a blind screen, which provides 1-2 niches for access to communications and storage of household chemicals. The doors can be removable or mounted on hinges (the latter, of course, are more convenient).

3. Folding - the screen is equipped with doors on hinges and magnets or latches, which fold to one side. And if you complement the model with small shelves and gas lifts, you can conveniently place all kinds of shampoos, gels and cosmetics for hygiene procedures.

4. Sliding – ergonomic design, popular for small spaces. The doors of such a screen move on runners according to the “compartment” principle, opening access to the desired niche.

The screen can also be equipped with additional amenities, for example, a recess for feet, open shelves, drawers, a step, etc.

Materials for screens: types and requirements

You can make a bath screen with your own hands from almost any building materials, the size of which can be adjusted to the parameters of the niche. Of course, the choice largely depends on the type of structure, but the basic requirements for materials are obvious: resistance to water and temperature changes, ease of cleaning and installation.

Therefore, the most popular for making screens are:
1. Moisture-resistant drywall - easy to use, but requires additional cladding, for example, mosaic.

2. OSB, plywood - require mandatory impregnation with antiseptics and a protective coating of varnish, paint, PVC film or tiles. From wooden materials you can find ready-made versions of MDF screens

3. Plastic is a lightweight material, the most popular for the manufacture of sliding screens, with a lot of decorative solutions.

4. Brick - gives stability to the structure, but can create additional load on the ceiling. However, it is the best solution for installing and supporting lightweight acrylic bathtubs that may sag under heavy weight.

5. Acrylic – durable, smooth and impressive panels that come with ready-made bathtubs, but for the standard model you can buy them separately and install them yourself.

Let's take a closer look at several ways to make bath partitions from various materials.

DIY bath screen made of brick or aerated concrete

Masonry, which can be done even with ½ or 1/4 brick, will help close the space under the bathroom with a strong partition. To make the markings correctly, it is important to take into account not only the thickness of the wall itself, but also to make an allowance for the decorative cladding. If it is ceramic tiles, lining or mosaic, feel free to add 2-2.5 cm taking into account the glue.

Work algorithm:
1. Designate a place for masonry. To do this, lower the plumb line from the edge of the bathtub and mark a horizontal line. From this guideline we subtract the thickness of the adhesive and tiles or other cladding material. For the screen to look impressive, it should be flush with the sides of the bathtub, but if the font has a rounded decorative edge, it is better to recess the partition a little deeper - this way there will be no problem with sealing the seams. According to the markings, we lay the first row of bricks, fastening them together with cement mortar. The second row is performed with each stone offset by ½.

2. If you need to make an open niche for the feet, an opening of 2-3 bricks is left in the middle of the first 2-3 rows of masonry. But before you build such a niche, think about whether it is really necessary? Moisture will constantly penetrate through the hole, and dampness will come from there, and such conveniences are unlikely to be vital today, when almost every home has a washing machine. As a last resort, make the hole blind by covering the back wall of the recess with the same brick.

3. But where exactly the opening is needed is opposite the siphon, in order to provide access to the plumbing if necessary. This hole can be closed with a small hinged door or a sheet of plywood decorated to resemble the lining of the bathtub.

4. The top row should be laid so that there is a gap of 2-3 cm between the masonry and the side of the bathtub. If necessary, the bricks are trimmed with a grinder, and the remaining gap is filled with foam. Then the seams are rubbed, excess foam is trimmed, and the surface of the screen is primed and covered with a decorative layer of tiles, mosaics or other finishing material.

How to make a bathtub screen with your own hands from plastic panels or plasterboard

Using plasterboard or plastic sheathing, you can make either a solid structure or a sliding or folding panel under the bathroom. They are mounted in the same way - on the frame. But sliding and folding models are additionally equipped with appropriate fittings. It should be taken into account that such a screen will perform mainly a decorative function; its support will be practically zero.

To work you will need:
Plastic panels or moisture-resistant drywall.
Metal profile or wooden beams impregnated with antiseptic.
Dowels, self-tapping screws.
Liquid Nails.
Tools: knife, screwdriver, level, hammer drill, construction stapler.

Work algorithm:
1. Markings are made for the frame using a level/plumb line. The starting point is the top side of the bathtub, from which guide lines are drawn on the floor and adjacent walls (of course, taking into account the thickness of the frame and cladding materials).

2. Then fragments of the required length are cut out from the beams or profile and attached to the floor according to the markings. Self-tapping screws and glue are used for wood; the profile is mounted using specialized fasteners. Vertical supports are installed every 50-60 cm. The upper part of the frame is fixed to the walls with dowels, and to the side of the bathtub - with liquid nails.

3. Now you can sheathe the screen itself under the bathroom by cutting out panels or sheets of drywall to the required size. Plastic is attached with liquid nails, drywall - both with glue and with screws/screws.

Please note that plastic itself is a finishing touch, but drywall needs to be sanded down at the seams and decorated with tiles or other moisture-resistant material. You can also build a sliding screen from the panels if you install guides at the top and bottom of the frame along which the door will “ride”.

But if you are not good at construction and are looking for an easy-to-execute option on how to make a screen for a bathtub with your own hands, you can simply stretch a thick fishing line along the side and beautifully drape the niche and all its contents with waterproof fabric.

The screen serves as a screen for communications connected to the bathroom. The legs of a bathtub installed on linings, drains, sewer outlets, and pipes are perfectly hidden under it. But in addition to functions related to the aesthetics of space, the screen can also perform other useful work. For example, serve as a support for the stability of the bath or be a cabinet for small items.

Acrylic bathtubs and other representatives of the latest generation of plumbing fixtures are often immediately equipped with a screen, ideal for hiding dark corners and communications. But what to do if the bathtub is old, and you don’t want to see its shabby sides every day? You can purchase a ready-made screen, and if you don’t want to spend money on a store-bought version or you need the screen under the bathtub to 100 percent meet your requirements, you can make a screen under the bathtub yourself. Here are several ways to create a screen.

The screen providing access under the bathroom is made with sliding doors or with a built-in cabinet for household chemicals; may have vertically or horizontally opening cavities. It is advisable to equip vertical opening structures according to the principle of blinds or equip them with gas lifts and other fasteners that are well known to furniture makers.

Requirements for a bath screen

Materials for the bath screen

The materials that you will use in the bathroom should not be afraid of water, moisture, or temperature changes. It is also important that they are not susceptible to rapid destruction from mold or mildew.

You can make the base of the screen from almost any building material, and then decorate the outside to your liking. Plastic panels or tiles are used for cladding.

Homemade screen options:

The fastest way to do this is to cover the frame under the bathtub with MDF panels. Strips of plastic or MDF are biologically neutral and practical. These materials are easy to cut and fasten together.

After construction, the brick base will need to be sheathed and plastered or tiles glued to it. And before installing a wooden frame, the wood must be coated with a special impregnation to protect it from moisture.