Turn Any Builder-Grade Bathtub Into A Statement With Just A Few Materials

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From deep claw foot tubs to modern alcove styles — a beautiful bathtub can quickly make your bathroom feel like a spa. But what about those standard, builder-grade tubs? Sure, they're simple, affordable, and get the job done. However, despite these positive qualities, the basic tub design isn't the most aesthetically pleasing. And if you're not sure whether or not a full bathroom remodel is worth the financial investment right now, don't worry. You can DIY a stylish tub skirt out of wood that will totally transform the look of your bathtub. 

In addition to wood, you will also need wood glue, nails, paint, waterproof sealant, silicone adhesive, caulk, and a ruler or measuring tape. This project comes together relatively quickly and makes a big impact on the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. It also serves as a cheaper alternative to bathtub refinishing if the outside of your tub has some wear and tear you're looking to cover up.

To begin, gather two long wood boards that are the same length as your tub and four smaller boards that will serve as the rungs for this "ladder." You will want to leave some space at the top of your tub, so measure your rungs accordingly. You will also need one sheet of backer board; feel free to use MDF, plywood, or anything suitable you have on hand. Start by putting your ladder together with wood glue and nails. Use your ruler or measuring tape to ensure your rungs are evenly spaced out. Then, attach the ladder to your backer board. Now, it's time to paint.

You can choose whichever paint color you like that matches your bathroom aesthetic, but black or white are safe choices if you're not sure what to pick. Once your wooden structure is painted and dried, add a waterproof top coat, like the Thompson's WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer, to protect the wood. Finally, secure the panel to the tub using a silicone adhesive. If there are any small gaps between the tub and the wood, you can use caulk to fill them in.

When it comes to customizing this tub skirt, you have a few options. Instead of the board and batten look that this DIY currently offers, consider adding beadboard or tongue-and-groove paneling to offer more of a modern farmhouse look. With a little extra wood, you could also make built-in cup holders or storage slots to keep all your bathtime essentials easily accessible. Maybe even use a combination of wood and marble contact paper (such as the Dimoon White Marble Contact Paper) to give the skirt a luxe finished look. Just be sure to get a vinyl or waterproof contact paper to avoid peeling.

While this DIY is pretty simple, there are some pitfalls to be on the lookout for. For example, if your wood is not properly sealed, it can easily become a breeding ground for moisture and mold. To avoid this, make sure you're thorough with the caulk and waterproof sealant. You should reapply the sealant every few months and always wipe up water spills quickly to keep the wood in good shape.