Tub & 3-piece Surround Insights

[dlu]

I was just going to replace the tub fill valve...

But when I opened up the wall I discovered that the space around and under the tub had been stuffed with fiberglass insulation which had become the home for a colony of rats at some point. I would avoid making that discovery if you can...

So, I'm thinking that the best thing to do would be to rip out the tub and surround (a one-piece fiberglass affair) so that I can really clean out the mess left by the previous tenants and see if I can figure out how they got in. As a result, I have a few questions:

• Am I right in thinking that I want a "direct to stud" surround?
• Does the surround have to come from the same maker as the tub? Or is it a good idea for it to?
• What should I be looking for as I shop for a tub & surround?
• Suggestions for brands to prefer (or avoid)?

 

[Crazyraceguy]

It can be done either way. You can get surround kits that work with existing tubs or some that come as a set, where they actually attach to the tub itself.
I've never seen rats mess with fiberglass? though rock wool or the cotton/paper-based stuff is fair game.
Either way, getting the old one out is the hard part, unless it's on the second floor. Then gravity is nearly as bad.

 

[Holzhacker]

Direct to stud or applying a substrate to framing depends a bit on quality level. If you buy a cheap flimsy surround installing a substrate, i.e. drywall, durock or densshield is a good idea. If you buy a better quality, i.e. thicker fiberglas unit you can probably avoid that.
If this is on an outside wall I would recommend at least installing insulation board to reduce cold transfer.
I would get rid of the old tub unless I have a good re-glazer available.