Help me spec a tub/shower stall

[David Meiland]

Upcoming bath project, typical 5x8 bath, customer wants a 5' tub/shower with a window in the 5' wall, probably something like a 3-0 x 1-6 slider, high in the wall. Customer's first shot was to choose a Sterling tub with wall panels, 6-3 total height (too high for a window above IMO) but they don't appear to be the type of thing you can cut into and modify for a window.

So, I need a quick lesson in tub wall products that allow a custom window. I've done Swanstone before, and of course about a thousand of them with tile walls.

Anything quick, easy, inexpensive in modular product?

[Kowboy]

David:

You may be able to get 1/2" solid surface from Livingstone that would be just the thing for this job although I don't know how well that fits the "inexpensive" criteria.

It is beautiful, repairable, no grout lines, and won't support mold or mildew.

Joe

[LIHR50]

Solid surface is the way to go but if money is tight that option is out the window.

Maybe there is an expensive waterproof panel I don't know about?

Is tile out of the question? Even an inexpensive tile looks better and last longer than those cheesy modular inserts.

[tjbnwi]

Swanstone with the window trim. I've never had a problem with this combo.

If the window does not exist, how about a short transom made with glass block, you could install vents in the assembly.

Tom

[Stovepipe]

Swanstone with the window trim. I've never had a problem with this combo.

If the window does not exist, how about a short transom made with glass block, you could install vents in the assembly.

Tom

You can buy a glass block kit, with the vent included. Use some sort of tile to trim. I've done this a couple of times. It brings in light, vents, and privacy.

[mike maines]

I don't see why you couldn't cut into the Sterling unit. Use a fine jigsaw blade from the backside. Fill the void with low-expansion spray foam. Make extension jambs and casing out of Azek and caulk it to the surround. Or just use Swanstone or Corian solid panels. Or acrylic panels: http://www.frigodesign.com/sheet-goo...ll-sheets.html.

[Stacey]

What about using Swan's fiberglass product (WW-6000 is just one example)? It's cheaper than the solid surface. They make a window trim kit (WTK-1) from fiberglass to go with the fiberglass surround. Way better than Sterling. I don't think Sterling makes a window trim kit anyway. So there is a way you don't have to use solid surface and can get a nice product.

[m beezo]

get them some FRP panels like you see in gas station bathrooms. Cut in a window anywhere you want. Fairly inexpensive but wears well. Not the best for a home bathroom but saying it might work......

[Mark G]

I use cultured marble in that situation. It's less expensive than corian and such and is easily fabicated and detailed around windows. How far do you have to go to get to a fabricator?