Swanstone BD-4896 Installation

Bathtub Deck Panel

BD-4896

Register your warranty at www.swanstone.com.

Read and Understand

Before Installing

 Product Warnings
 Safety Guidelines
 Kit Contents
 Required Tools
 Preparation Tips
 Installation Procedure
 Cleaning & Maintenance
 Surface Repair
 Warranty Information

Form # 229

800-325-7008 3 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone

The Swanstone Assurance — if our product is

properly installed and maintained, as stated in these

instructions, it will not leak.

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The Swan Corporation, the makers of the Swanstone Wall
Systems and Panels, cannot anticipate every possible
circumstance that might involve a potential hazard during
the installation of our product(s). The warnings and
instructions in this installation guide are, therefore, not
all-inclusive. If a tool, installation procedure, or work
method that is not specifically recommended by the Swan
Corporation is used, you must satisfy yourself that it is
safe. You should also make sure that the Swanstone
product(s) will not be damaged by the methods you
choose. The Swan Corporation will not be held
responsible for water damage of any kind in connection
with the installation of one of our Swanstone
bath/shower/panel kits.

To avoid product damage, personal injury, or even possible
death, carefully read, understand, and follow all the
instructions in this installation guide before installing this
product(s). Do not use cleaning fluids or operate power
tools unless you read and understand the instructions and
warnings in this and all other applicable labels or manuals.
Proper use of tools and the products described in this
guide is your responsibility.

WARRANTY

This product is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Refer to the Warranty section in this manual for complete
details.

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Important information on cleaning, maintenance, and
repair is contained within.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

WARNING

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Indicates that equipment or
property damage can result if instructions are not
followed.

Read and Understand the Manual

It is the responsibility of any individual who
installs or maintains this product to fully

understand and follow proper installation and
maintenance procedures. Be aware of the inherent
dangers in the use of power tools when installing this
product. Read and understand all Warnings, Cautions,
and Important Notices in this manual.

Work Safely

DO NOT proceed if any doubt arises about the

correct or safe method of performing anything

found in this or other Swanstone manuals.
The installation of this product can require using power
tools. Do not use power tools without adequate training.
If necessary, hire or consult a trained professional for
expert assistance before continuing.

Use Proper Tools

Always use proper tools which are in good,

working condition during the installation of the

Swanstone products. Using tools other than
those listed could adversely affect the integrity of floors,
pipes, walls, or this product and could result in water
damage or other damage to floors, pipes, walls, or other
portions of your building or home.

Do Not Use Nails

Do not use nails to secure the panel to the

framing. The panel mounts to the mating

surface with clear silicone only. Only use the
supplied clear silicone to mount this product. Never use
hammers, nails, or screws, which could adversely affect
the integrity of this product. Nails and screws could
puncture the Swanstone panel, resulting in water or
other damage to floors, pipes, walls, or other portions of
your building or home.

Inspect Before Cutting

Make sure no electrical wiring or plumbing is

present before cutting into a wall to install any

accessories.

Wall Conditions

Inspect the walls before installing the

Swanstone panels. Never install panels over

damp walls or an existing mold condition.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against
unsafe practices.

Use Proper Installation Methods

Follow all instructions related to wall surface
preparation. Failure to follow such instructions

could cause the panels to detach from the wall
surface after installation, resulting in personal injury.
Failure to follow these instructions could result in water
damage.

Lifting Hazard

According to the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health, the

recommended maximum safe lifting weight is
51 pounds, with all lifting conditions perfect—minimal
forward reach, steady load close to the body, straight
back, load between knees and shoulders, and good
grips. To avoid personal injury, always use these proper
lifting techniques and use two people to move heavy
cartons. The box containing the Swanstone tub deck
weighs over 151 pounds. Use the appropriate lifting
devices to move the load. Always use two people when
lifting heavy or bulky cartons. DO NOT attempt to lift
objects that are too heavy.

WHEN CARRYING A HEAVY LOAD—GET HELP!

Slipping Hazard

Do not install this product in the presence of
water. Installing this product without drying all

surfaces, or in the presence of water, could
cause you to slip and fall due to wet floors or spilled
fluids. Personal injury can result from slips or falls.
Before installation, dry all surfaces, including the floor,
with a cloth or paper towel. Clean up all water or spilled
fluids immediately.

Tripping Hazard

Personal injury can result from tripping over
power cords, tools, or other items. DO NOT
leave items laying around the work area.

Personal Protection

Be sure to use all personal protective
equipment, such as sturdy work

boots, preferably with steel toes,
gloves, and hard hat, if necessary, to ensure your own
safety. To prevent possible damage to your hearing,
always wear ear protection, such as earmuffs or
earplugs, when working around power tools.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 4 800-325-7008

Safety Guidelines

CAUTION

Cutting Hazard

The installation of the Swanstone product may
require using power tools. Keep hands away

from the cutting edge of any tool used in the
installation of our product. Placing fingers in or around
the cutting blades could result in serious personal injury.

Sharp Edge Hazard

After cutting the edge of a Swanstone panel, it

can be sharp. Wear protective gloves to

prevent personal injury.

Room Temperature

Allow the Swanstone panel and
silicone sealants to adjust to room

temperature for at least six hours
before installation. The panel should be installed at
temperatures not less than 65 degrees. The panel
should not be installed in areas where the temperature
may drop below freezing (32 degrees F). Failure to
follow this recommendation could adversely affect the
silicone sealants, which holds the panel to the mounting
surface.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could result in serious
injury or death.

Eye Protection

Be sure to use all personal protective
equipment to ensure your own safety. To avoid

eye injury, always wear protective glasses with
side shields when using power tools. Also make sure no
one else can be injured by flying particles when using
power tools.

Fire Hazard

Personal injury or death can
result from a fire caused by

flammable liquids or silicone
sealants. Cleaners or solvents can be highly explosive,
resulting in personal injury or even death when not used
properly. Clean up any flammable substance
immediately. Sparks or open flames can cause
flammable substances to ignite. DO NOT smoke while
working on or near any flammable substance.

Solvents Hazard

Follow all manufacturer’s safety instructions for
silicone sealants and denatured alcohol.

Alcohol vapors are both flammable and
hazardous to breathe. Silicone vapors may irritate eyes
and nose. Personal injury can result from improperly
handling or use of products such as denatured alcohol.
Always follow the manufacturers recommendations for
the safe use of these products. Ventilate any work area
before beginning to apply silicone sealants, cleaning
agents, or solvents.

Fumes Hazard

The fumes from the sealants and
solvents used by the installer can be
harmful if used in an unventilated

room. Always work in a well-ventilated area.

Dust Hazard

When cutting or drilling the Swanstone
product, use a dust collection method

which prevents dust particles from
going into the air. Always work in a well-ventilated area.
Always use an OSHA approved dust mask when cutting,
drilling, or sanding Swanstone products.

Power Tool Hazard

To prevent personal injury or possible

death, always follow the electrical

safety recommendations of the power
tool’s manufacturer. Do not use power tools in an
unsafe manner. Power tools should only be connected
to a circuit protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter
(GFI).

Shock Hazard

Never use electric power tools around

water, condensation, or other liquids.

Electric shock can cause severe
burns, significant injuries, and even death. If an
extension cord is required, always use an OSHA
approved extension cord. Power cords should only be
connected to a circuit protected by a ground-fault circuit
interrupter (GFI).

Electrical Shock Hazard

Contacting live electrical wiring with
power tools or hand tools can cause

serious injury or death. Make sure all
related circuit breakers are turned OFF. Test for live
circuits or wiring inside any wall where installation of the
Swanstone product requires cutting into a wall.

Electrocution Hazard

Water and other liquids conduct
electric current and can create a short

circuit, resulting in injury or death.
Keep all liquids away from electrical cords and power
tools. DO NOT create a short circuit between a source
of electricity and a liquid by being in contact with both
simultaneously.

800-325-7008 5 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone

Safety Guidelines

WARNING

Followed carefully, these installation instructions will
result in an easy, trouble-free installation of your
Swanstone product. Any deviations, additions, and/or
deletions from the prescribed installation, without prior
written approval of our Customer Service Department,
will void the warranty covering this product. Not
following the directions could also result in personal
injuries, water damage, and other damage to floors,
pipes, walls, and other portions of your building or home.

Required Tools

 Circular saw with 60 to 80 tooth carbide blade

 Sabre saw (straight up and down travel) with

bi-metal blade (14 teeth per inch)

 Drill with 3/8” drill bit

 Tape measure

 Masking tape (2” wide works best)

 Caulking gun

 Clean paper towels or shop towels

Kit Contents

Confirm that all parts of this kit have been included
before beginning installation.

(102 long x 54 wide x 4” thick; 151 lbs.)

1 — Tub Deck Panel (48” wide x 96” long x 0.400”

thick)

Unpackaging

 Use care when opening the box so that you do not

damage the panel.

 This product is shipped to you or your retail center

after careful inspection. After purchasing the kit,
carefully unbox and inspect the product for any
shipping damage that may have occurred. If damage
is found, report it immediately to the store of
purchase. After inspection and during installation,
protect the products from construction damage, by
moving them to another room or area until ready to
install.

 Store the panel in a flat area to avoid warpage until

the time of installation. Do not store the panel
outside of the original packaging in a vertical position.

 Please use the model number located on the side of

the box or the front of this manual when contacting us
with questions concerning the installation of this
product.

Helpful Hints

 Read these instructions carefully and familiarize

yourself with the various parts of the kit.

 The variety of installations possible for this kit may

require procedures other than those shown. Ensure
the tub frame and deck construction is correctly
sized, plumb, and square.

 Allow sufficient time for the parts in this kit to adjust to

room temperature. We do not recommend
installation of this product at temperatures below 65
degrees.

 Sawhorses with 2 x 4 cross-members or a worktable

is helpful during the installation process.

 Always transport the panel vertically. Use care when

laying the panel flat to prevent flexing, especially after
it has the center cutout for the tub.

 Store unused materials away from the work area to

prevent accidental damage.

Preparation Tips

 Prepare the mounting surface with 1/2” (13 mm)

moisture-resistant concrete board or plywood. Never
install our products directly on any surface that is, or
may become, wet or damp.

 Turn off the hot and cold water supply.

 Ensure all plumbing or electrical work inside the tub

base is finished prior to installation of the concrete
board or Swanstone panel.

 Swanstone panels have a finished side and a

nonfinished backer side. The Swanstone panel has a
sticker or stickers attached to the nonfinished backer
side and, upon installation, should be placed against
the mounting surface.

 The mounting surface must be free of dirt, film,

waxes, or any other residues.

Caulking Tips

 Follow the instructions on the caulking tube.

 When job is complete, inspect all caulked areas for

gaps and fill as needed.

 Clean up any excess silicone using denatured alcohol

and a clean cloth.

 Be very careful not to disturb caulk joints.

The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 6 800-325-7008

General Information

Installation on Cement Board or Wood

Swanstone panels can be installed over a variety of
products. If you intend to apply the panel to any
surface, other than those described, consult with a
professional contractor.

 Surface must be dry, smooth, and free of any dust,

soap scum, or any other contaminants.

 To ensure proper adhesion of the Swanstone product,

the concrete board or wood surface must be sealed
with a water or oil-based primer/sealer.

 After the primer/sealer is completely dry, complete the

installation following the instructions in this manual.

Disclaimer

 The information contained in this Installation Manual

is given free of charge. It is based upon technical
data which we believe to be reliable and is intended
for use, by persons having knowledge of this
technical area, at their own discretion and risk.
Swanstone assumes no responsibility for results
obtained or damage incurred from the use of this
material either in whole or in part by the buyer.

 This manual will give you basic instructions for the

installation of the product in a step-by-step sequence
that will work in most types of installations. If you
have an installation application that is not covered in
this manual, please call your local Swanstone
distributor or contact Swanstone directly for additional
information about your application.

 Follow all installation instructions. Failure to follow

these instructions could result in personal injuries,
water damage, or other damage to floors, pipes,
walls, or other portions of your building or home.

1. Follow the tub manufacturer’s instructions for the

construction of the tub frame and deck.

2. Install 1/2” water-resistant cement board or plywood

over the tub’s framing. Follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations for installation.

The template for the center cutout will also be used again
for the Swanstone panel. Do not damage the template
during this step of the procedure.

3. Use the template provided by the manufacturer of

the tub to mark the location for the center cutout.
Drill a pilot hole with a 3/8” drill bit; this will normally
be large enough to insert the jigsaw blade. Cut out
the center of the tub deck.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

800-325-7008 7 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone

General Information Installation Procedure

TD4896-002

TD4896-003

4. Apply a coat of water or oil-based primer/sealer to
all the surfaces of the cement board or plywood
(follow the manufacturers’ instructions). Allow the
primer to dry thoroughly before applying any
adhesive.

Dust Hazard

When cutting or drilling the Swanstone
product, use a dust collection method

which prevents dust particles from
going into the air. Always work in a well-ventilated area.
Always use an OSHA approved dust mask when cutting,
drilling, or sanding Swanstone products.

5. Using a circular saw with a 60 to 80 tooth carbide

blade, cut the panel to fit the dimensions of the tub
deck. To avoid scratches, place pieces of masking
tape over the area where the saw contacts the
Swanstone panel.

The Swanstone panel must be adequately supported
when making the center cutout for the tub. Because of
the reduced width of the material at the sides of the panel,
it will easily bend, deform, and/or possibly break.

Marking the exact location for the center cutout is a critical
step. If the location is marked wrong and the panel is cut,
it cannot be patched or repaired.

6. Use the template provided by the manufacturer of
the tub to mark the location for the center cutout on
the Swanstone panel.

7. Remove the template and/or place pieces of
masking tape over the area where the sabre saw
contacts the Swanstone panel.

8. Drill a pilot hole with a 3/8” drill bit; this will normally
be large enough to insert the sabre saw blade.
Using a sabre saw (straight up and down travel) with
bi-metal blade (14 teeth per inch), cut the center
opening for the tub.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 8 800-325-7008

Installation Procedure

TD4896-004

WARNING

TD4896-006a

TD4896-006b

TD4896-006c

TD4896-005

DO NOT force a panel to fit a bowed or curved surface as
it may break; furthermore, the resiliency of the panel can
break the adhesive bond to the mounting surface.

9. Dry fit the panel and make any necessary
adjustments.

Do not use oil-based cleaners, such as mineral spirits,
to clean the panel. The oil in the cleaner will prevent the
panel from adhering properly to the mounting surface.

Fumes Hazard

The fumes from the sealants and
solvents used by the installer can be
harmful if used in an unventilated room.

Always work in a well-ventilated area.

10. Remove the panel and clean the back with

denatured alcohol or another non oil-based
cleaning solvent.

11. Apply a 1/4 to 3/8” bead of adhesive to the tub
deck, as shown. Keep the bead approximately 1”
from the edge to prevent the adhesive from
pressing out from under the panel. Also apply an
“S” bead of adhesive, as shown. Follow the
adhesive manufacturers’ instructions and note all
ventilation and installation precautions.

12. Very carefully turn the panel over and place it onto
the tub deck. Make sure the panel is correctly
positioned. It is important to apply hand pressure
to the entire surface of the panel to bond it to the
mounting surface and then place weight on top of it
to hold it firmly in place.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

IMPORTANT NOTICE

800-325-7008 9 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone

Installation Procedure

WARNING

TD4896-008

TD4896-007

TD4896-009

Follow the caulking manufacturers’ instructions on the
tube for proper application. Allow at least 24 hours for
caulk and adhesive to set before using the tub.

13. After the tub is installed, apply a bead of the color­matched caulk (included in the kit) around the tub
and to any other mating wall joints.

The installation is now complete. DO NOT
discard these installation instructions. PLEASE
LEAVE THEM WITH THE HOMEOWNER.

Care and Cleaning

The Swanstone products are stain and abrasion
resistant; however, the finish requires reasonable care.

Because cleaning products change over time, always
check the manufacturers’ instructions to make sure it is
compatible with plastic. DO NOT use a cleaner if the
label indicates it should not be used on plastics. DO NOT
use spray-on cleaners that require daily use without
immediately rinsing with water to stop the chemical
cleaning reaction because damage will result and void the
warranty.

Day-To-Day Cleanup

Simply wipe the surfaces with a clean towel to remove
watermarks and residues. All Swanstone products can
be cleaned with warm water, a soft cloth, and normal
household detergents or cleansers, such as Fantastic,
Formula 409, Clorox Clean-up, Handy Andy, Mr. Clean,
or Lestoil. Always rinse off cleaners within five minutes
of application.

Occasional scrubbing with household abrasive cleaners
ensures that the original luster is maintained.

Caulking Joints

Inspect caulking joints monthly for damage or any signs
of separation from the mating surface. Cracks in the
caulking will allow water to leak into the surrounding
surfaces. Reapply caulking to any joint showing
signs of wear or cracking. Failure to inspect and
repair caulking joints will void the warranty.

Surface Repair

Light Scratches

Use 400 grit sandpaper to remove light scratches in the
surface.

Deep Scratches or Gouges

For deeper scratches or gouges, use 220 or 320 grit
sandpaper. A “Scotchbright pad” can be used to blend
the repair into the surrounding area.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

IMPORTANT

The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 10 800-325-7008

Installation Procedure Maintenance & Surface Repair

TD4896-010

LIMITED WARRANTY

FOR RESIDENTIAL APPLICATIONS

If a Swanstone product covered by this warranty is
found to be defective in materials or workmanship, after
inspection by an authorized Swan Corporation
representative, we will repair, or at our option, exchange
the product for a similar model. This warranty extends
for a designated period of time, so long as it remains in
use in its original place of installation.

This warranty covers products installed in accordance
with the Swan Corporation’s installation instructions,
used as recommended, and not damaged due to
misuse, abuse, or improper installation. It does not
apply to any seams or changes made to the product by
professional tradesmen or fabricators.

The warranty applies only to the original purchaser and
installation of these products in residential applications.
It does not apply to commercial applications.

The Swan Corporation’s option to repair or exchange the
products under this warranty does not cover any labor or
other costs of removal or installation, nor shall The Swan
Corporation be responsible for any other incidental or
consequential damages attributable to a product defect
or to the repair or exchange of a defective product.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Swanstone Wall Panels, Trim Kits, and Accessories

LIMITED WARRANTY

FOR COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

If a Swanstone product covered by this warranty is
found to be defective in materials or workmanship, after
inspection by an authorized Swan Corporation
representative, we will repair, or at our option, exchange
the product for a similar model. This warranty extends
for a designated period of time, so long as it remains in
use in its original place of installation.

This warranty covers only products installed in
accordance with the Swan Corporation’s installation
instructions, used as recommended, and not damaged
due to misuse, abuse, or improper installation. It does
not apply to any seams or changes made to the product
by professional tradesmen or fabricators.

The warranty applies only to the original purchaser and
installation of these products in commercial applications.

The Swan Corporation’s option to repair or exchange the
products under this warranty does not cover any labor or
other costs of removal or installation, nor shall The Swan
Corporation be responsible for any other incidental or
consequential damages attributable to a product defect
or to the repair or exchange of a defective product.

25-Year Limited Warranty

Swanstone Tub and Shower Wall Panels, Trim Kits, and
Accessories

800-325-7008 11 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone

Warranty

www.swanstone.com

Form # 229

September 2008

Save these Installation Instructions for future reference. They

provide important information on cleaning, maintenance, and

surface repair of the Swanstone Wall Systems and Panels.