How to fit a bath panel

• Bath panel (front and/or end)

• Timber battens (if not supplied with the panel)

• Wood screws

• Bathroom grade silicone sealant 

• Drill driver

• Saw (if cutting battens or panels)

• Tape measure

• Safety glasses

• Gloves

• Spirit level

• Pencil

Firstly, clear the area around the bath so you have enough space to get to work, and also ensure the floor is clean and free of debris. If you’re replacing your bath panel, be careful when removing the original panel by removing the fixtures keeping it in place. These might be screws, clips which’ll need to be squeezed to release, or cutting the sealant with a utility knife. 

Sometimes, you may need to install some support battens to ensure the panel remains stable. Some baths already have pre-installed fixings or a rebate for battens, but not always. If your panel requires separate support, you’ll need to attach timber battens to the floor and/or wall near the bath to ensure sturdiness.

To install the battens, you must:

1. Measure the height from the floor to the underside of the bath rim. 

2. Cut the timber battens to the require length that you’ve just measured.

3. Using a pencil and spirit level, mark the position of the battens on the floor and/or wall, ensuring they’re level and will offer the necessary support for your panel.

4. Drill pilot holes and then fix the battens into place.

The rest is simply placing your panel in position. Carefully lift the panel into your desired position; if it’s a front panel, slide it under the rim of the bath. If an end panel, make sure it aligns with the end of the bath.

Always check that the panel is level using your spirit level. If too high, you may need to trim the bottom edge by measuring carefully and using a fine-toothed saw or jigsaw to make a clean cut. 

Once you’re happy with the position of your panel and it’s properly levelled, it’s time to secure it in place.

For panels with pre-drilled holes or clips: 

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to secure the panel.

For panels requiring screws: 

1. Begin by drilling small pilot holes through the panel into the timber battens (if you’re using them).

2. Secure the panel to the battens or your bath frame using wood screws. You’ll want to make sure they’re not too tight so that you don’t cause any damage to the panel.

Last but not least, you’ll want to seal the edges for waterproofing purposes and a neat-looking finish. Apply a bead of bathroom silicone sealant along the top of the edge where the panel meets the bath, and along any edges where the panel meets the floor or walls. To do this:

1. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying the sealant.

2. Use a silicone gun to apply an even bead.

3. Smooth the sealant with a wet finger or a silicone tool for a professional finish.

Once the sealant has fully dried (using the manufacturer’s guidance), we recommend checking that the panel is completely secure and there’s no gaps that may require some extra sealant. It’s also a good opportunity to clean away any excess sealant from the bath or panel itself.

Don’t forget to regularly clean your bath side panel with a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner to keep it looking its best. You should also inspect the silicone sealant regularly and reapply if you notice any signs of wear or mould as this can cause water damage when left too long.

Bath panels can range in size, but you’ll find that they’re often available in common lengths to fit standard bath specifications, usually between 1700mm or 1500mm long and heights between 500-560mm. However, for a perfect fit for your bath, you may need to trim or adjust the panel.

Yes, you can. Fitting a bath panel is a simple DIY task, suitable for all abilities, including beginners.

You’ll need to use a bathroom-suitable silicone sealant which will hold waterproof, flexible and mould-resistant properties. If sealing plastic bath panels, use a neutral-cure sealant.