Swanstone STMK96-(xxxx) - Installation - Manual (Page 7)

Filler Boards
If an existing wall covering (i.e. tile) does not extend to a
height equal to the height of the panel, it will be necessary to
install a filler board to that height. The filler board must equal
the thickness of the existing wall covering (tile). Usually, 1/4”
masonite or similar material is adequate. If desired, the filler
board can extend from the top edge of the tile to the ceiling.
Note: Failure to use a filler board to properly install the panels
could result in water damage or other damage to floors, walls,
or other portions of your building or home.
Wallboard Installation
Note: If the Swanstone wall panels will be installed over an
existing shower wall surface, proceed to the next section.
Install 1/2” moisture-resistant cementboard or greenboard over
back (1), front (2), and rear (3) wall surfaces of the rough opening.
1. Measure and cut openings for the shower faucet(s) and
shower head before installation.
2. Install the wall board with a 1/2” gap above the shower
base side lip to prevent possible water (wicking affect)
damage.
3a. If Swanstone apron strips will NOT be installed along the
front edge of the shower base, the cementboard or
greenboard MUST be cut to fit up against the front edge of
the shower base.
3b. If Swanstone apron strips WILL be installed along the
front edge of the shower base, the greenboard MUST be
cut to leave a 1/2” gap between the front edge of the
shower base and greenboard.
Note: For more information on installing apron strips, refer to
the Apron Strips (optional) instructions in the Installation
Procedure section of this manual.
For a finished appearance, install greenboard up to the front
edge of the shower base UNLESS optional apron strips will be
cut from Swanstone material and installed next to the front edge
of the shower base. In that case, leave a 1/2” gap between the
shower base and the greenboard. The Swanstone apron strips
will cover this gap (see illustration below).
In addition, if baseboard trim (not included) will later be
installed along the floor next to the shower base, a 1/2” gap
between the floor and bottom of the greenboard is
recommended (see illustration below).
4. Apply a coat of water or oil-based primer/sealer to all the
surfaces of the cementboard or greenboard (follow the
manufacturer’s instructions). Allow the primer to dry
thoroughly before installing the Swanstone panels.
Flat, Subway Tile, or Square Tile
Panel Installation
The installation process is the same for either flat or tile
panels. Follow the steps in this section for installation
instructions.
Back Panel
If the back wall measures less than the width of the panel, cut
the panel to fit the opening.
1. Using a builder’s square, make sure the shower base is
perpendicular to the side walls. If the walls are out of
square, the bottom of all the panels may need to be cut to
follow the contour of the shower base.
1/2"
1/2"
1/2"
IMPORTANT NOTICE
1 2
3
A
B
Installation Procedure
800-325-7008 7 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone