Swann BK-326072 User manual

Shower Base, Wall Panel,
Bench Seat, and Recessed
Shampoo Shelf
BK-326072
Product Warnings
Safety Guidelines
Kit Contents
Required Tools
Preparation Tips
Installation Procedure
Cleaning & Maintenance
Surface Repair
Warranty Information
Register your warranty at www.swanstone.com.
Read and Understand
Before Installing
Form # 199

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.
WARNING
IMPORTANT NOTICE

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 shower base or
side panels to the framing. The panels mount
to walls with clear silicone only. Only use the
supplied or recommended 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 Wall Systems
and Panels, 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 kit weighs
over 280 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, such as the BK326072 Side and
Back Panels, which weigh 196 lbs.
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.
CAUTION
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 4 800-325-7008
Safety Guidelines

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 panels and
silicone sealants to adjust to room
temperature for at least six hours
before installation. The panels should be installed at
temperatures not less than 65 degrees. Panels should
not be installed in areas where the temperature may
drop below freezing (32° F). Failure to follow this
recommendation could adversely affect the silicone
sealants which holds the panels to the wall. If the
panels are not correctly adhered to the walls, they may
fall off, causing possible injury to someone in or around
the shower enclosure.
Grab Bars
We recommend that shower compartments be
equipped with support grab bars that comply
with the most recent edition of ANSI-A117.1
requirements. Grab bars must be anchored to structural
support (wall studs) behind the panels. Do not rely on
the panels only for grab bar support!
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 silicone 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.
WARNING
800-325-7008 5 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Safety Guidelines

WARNING: Continued
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.
General Information
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
Hole saw for shower faucet/shower head
Tape measure
Masking tape (2” wide works best)
Level
Filler (thinset or mortar, if subfloor is not level)
Stud finder
Compass or dividers (scribe the panel to the wall)
Caulking gun
Required Tools (continued)
Clean paper towels or shop towels
2 x 4 lumber as required for bracing (see Bracing
Instructions)
Industrial grade, hot glue gun and glue sticks
(optional)
Kit Contents
Confirm that all parts of this kit have been included
before beginning installation.
BK-326072 Shower Wall Kit
(77-1/2 long x 64-3/4 wide x 4” thick; 196 lbs.)
2 — Sides (33-1/8 x 72”)
1 — Back (59 x 72”)
2 — Corner Trim Pieces (1-1/8 x 72”)
2 — Swanstone Soap Dishes
4 — Cartridges of clear silicone for back and side panels
1 — Tube of color matched 100% silicone sealant for
corners, corner moldings, and recessed shelf
1 — Tube of white silicone sealant for caulking around
the outer perimeter of shower
SS-29 Installation Kit
(13-3/4 long x 13-3/4 wide x 3-1/8” thick; 7 lbs.)
4 — Cartridges of clear silicone sealant for back and
side panels
1 — Tube of color matched 100% silicone sealant for
corners, corner moldings, and recessed shelf
1 — Tube of white silicone sealant for caulking around
the outer perimeter of shower
SB-1248 Bench Seat Kit
(51-5/16 long x 14 wide x 1-9/16” thick; 16.5 lbs.)
1 — Seat Panel (12-3/4 x 48”)
RS-2215 Recessed Shampoo Shelf
(26-3/4 long x 19-1/2 wide x 6-3/4” thick; 13 lbs.)
1 — Shelf Unit
1 — Tube of color matched 100% silicone sealant
SS-3248 Shower Base Kit
(54 long x 38 wide x 10” thick; 49 lbs.)
1 — Base Unit
1 — Caulk Seal Gasket
1 — Strainer Plate
WARNING
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 6 800-325-7008
Safety Guidelines General Information

Unpackaging
Use care when opening the box so that you do not
damage the panels.
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 panels in a flat area to avoid warpage until the
time of installation. Do not store the panels 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 unit.
Make sure the shower base is the correct size and is
in good condition. Installation of a damaged product
will void the warranty.
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
construction is correctly sized, plumb, and square.
Save the large cardboard box for protection of the
shower floor during the installation process and to
use as a template for cutting the back shower wall
panel.
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 panels vertically. Use care
when laying the panels flat to prevent flexing,
especially when panels have a cutout in them.
Store unused materials away from the work area to
prevent accidental damage.
If the shower is placed over a garage or on an
outside wall, care must be taken to ensure that the
shower is properly insulated from cold temperatures.
Preparation Tips
Measure the width of the back wall (with green board)
installed. This measurement cannot exceed the width
of the Swanstone back panel. If the wall opening is
too large, other methods or two panels will be
required to cover the wall.
Turn off the hot and cold water supply.
Remove faucet handles, escutcheons, filler spouts,
and/or anything mounted to the wall (i.e. towel bars,
soap dishes, etc.).
Always measure the location of the plumbing cutouts
from the back wall forward and from the ledge of the
shower base upward.
Ensure all plumbing or electrical work inside the walls
is finished prior to installation of the wall panels.
Prepare the area with 1/2” (13 mm) moisture-resistant
drywall, marine grade plywood, or concrete board.
Never install our products directly on any structure
that is, or may become, wet or damp.
Make sure the drain hole (6” diameter) in the subfloor
or slab is large enough and aligns with the hole in the
shower base.
Make sure the subfloor under the shower base is
level in both directions. The shower base must be
level when installed. Improper installation will void
the warranty.
Trial fit the side panels before you begin. 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 sub-wall.
Walls must be solid, plumb, and square within 1/8” of
true. Shim or trim the opening, as required. This kit
has been designed with some adjustability for minor
alignment problems.
The mounting surface must be free of dirt, film,
waxes, or any other residues.
If you are installing a recessed accessory, cut the
hole after the panel is installed and fully supported by
the wall. Remember to position the accessory
between the wall studs.
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 that was missed using
denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.
Be very careful not to disturb caulk joints.
800-325-7008 7 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
General Information

Swanstone panels can be installed over a variety of
products. If you intend to apply the panels to any
surface other than those described, consult with a
professional contractor. Use the following sections when
installing this product over:
SHEETROCK/GREENBOARD/CEMENTBOARD/
WOOD
PLASTER
CEMENT/CONCRETE
OLD TILE
WALLPAPER
MASONITE
Sheetrock, Greenboard, Cementboard, or
Wood
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 wall 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.
Plaster
Depending on the condition of the existing wall surface,
additional silicone may be required to ensure contact
between the substrate and the wall panel.
Sand textured or swirled finishes smooth.
Clean the wall surface with a damp cloth to remove
any dust, soap scum, or any other contaminants.
The wall surface must be dry and smooth.
To ensure proper adhesion of the Swanstone product,
the wall 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.
Cement/Concrete
Depending on the condition (flatness) of the existing wall
surface, additional silicone may be required to ensure
contact between the substrate and the wall panel.
To ensure proper adhesion of the Swanstone product,
the complete area must be sealed with two coats of
water or oil-based primer/sealer.
After the primer/sealer is completely dry, complete the
installation following the instructions in this manual.
Old Tile
Depending on the condition of the existing wall surface,
additional silicone may be required to ensure contact
between the substrate and the wall panel.
Old ceramic tiles, if solidly adhered, do not need to be
removed. All plastic tiles must be removed.
Remove or reattach any loose ceramic tiles. Old tiles
and front edge ceramic tiles should be reset for
appearance only.
Remove any tile accessories attached to the walls.
Remove the bottom row of tile and cut a ventilation
gap in the substrate.
Surface must be dry, smooth, and free of any dust,
soap scum, or any other contaminants.
Complete the installation following the instructions in
this manual.
Wallpaper
All wallpaper must be removed from the area being
covered. Clean the wall surface to remove any dust,
soap scum, or any other contaminants. The wall
surface must be dry and smooth.
To ensure proper adhesion of the Swanstone product,
the complete wall surface must be sealed with two
coats of water or oil-based primer/sealer.
After the primer/sealer is completely dry, complete the
installation following the instructions in this manual.
Masonite
Clean the wall surface to remove any dust, soap
scum, or any other contaminants. The wall surface
must be dry and smooth.
To ensure proper adhesion of the Swanstone product,
the wall 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.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 8 800-325-7008
Instructions for Covering Pre-Existing Wall Surfaces

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.
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 The Swan Corporation 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.
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.
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.
IP-FB-001
A
B
800-325-7008 9 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

Rough Opening and Bench Seat
Rough-in dimensions are suggested sizes, and
conditions may vary for each installation. If the rough
opening (no moisture-resistant drywall) will be larger
than 60-1/4”, the back panel (59” wide ) will be too
narrow to cover the wall. Gaps less than 1/2” can be
covered using the supplied corner molding (optional). If
the finished opening is less than 59”, the back panel can
be cut to fit.
1. For new construction, build a wood or steel stud
framework for the shower enclosure. The rough
stud opening should be 60-1/4” wide by 34” deep,
as shown.
The rough opening is measured from the face of one
stud to the face of the stud on the opposite wall. This
installation has been developed for 1/2” greenboard or
cement board. If thicker materials are used, the rough
opening must be increased in order to accommodate the
thicker materials.
2. Install a stud 30-1/2” from the back wall on both
sides of the framing. This will provide an adequate
anchor for a shower door, if one is installed.
3. Add a 2 x 4 wall brace to attach the seat framing.
The height of the brace should be the same height
as the seat, which can vary according to personal
needs.
BK-RO-003
BK-RO-002
30 1/2"
IMPORTANT NOTICE
34"
60 1/4"
BK-RO-001
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 10 800-325-7008
Installation Procedure

4. Construct the bench seat framework using 2 x 4
wood or steel studs. The framework for the seat
must be 32-5/8” wide and 11-3/4” deep. The
finished dimension of this seat, including the cement
board, must be 12-1/4 x 33-1/8”. Construct the
framework, as shown.
The center braces are necessary to adequately support
the weight placed on the seat. Failure to install these
braces will void any product warranty.
5. In order to eliminate standing water on the bench
seat, cut and place three, 2” wide shims on top of
each 2 x 4, as shown. Standard shim stock works
well for these shims. The shims should be 1/8” thick
and taper down to nothing. Also, place a 1/8” thick
shim along the wall to completely support the back
of the seat.
6. Determine the location of the shower base drain.
Measure and cut a 6” opening for the drain in the
subfloor.
BK-RO-006
6"
BK-RO-005
BK-RO-004
11 3/4"
32 5/8"
IMPORTANT NOTICE
800-325-7008 11 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

7. If a surface mounted accessory, such as a grab bar,
is going to be installed, make sure 2 x 6 wood
blocking is installed where the surface mounted
accessory will be attached. This will ensure a solid
backing for any mounting hardware.
Shower Base Installation
The shower base is designed to be installed directly on
the subfloor and should rest loosely against the studs
maintaining the minimum 3/16” gap. The drain is
designed for 2” cast-iron (no-hub) or plastic drain pipes.
For best installation results, it is suggested to install the
shower base using a mortar bed or equivalent material,
such as thinset.
1. Dry fit the shower base to ensure a proper fit and
correct alignment of the drain. The top of the drain
pipe must be 1/4” below the floor level.
2. Remove the base and place up to 1/2” thick layer of
mortar or thinset on the floor. This will ensure
complete contact and support by the existing
subfloor, eliminating shower floor flex during normal
use. Taper the mortar/thinset to 1/4” thick around
the floor drain. Mix enough material to cover an
area approximately 1/2 x 24 x 42”. Do not place the
material closer than 2” to the edge of the shower
base or the floor drain opening.
3. Place the shower base into the rough opening and
firmly press it into the mortar/thinset. Make sure the
side lips of the shower base are parallel with the wall
with 3/16” gap between the face of the stud and the
side lip.
NOTE: The ideal placement of the shower base would
be 1/2” from the inside lip of the shower base to the face
of the stud. This dimension would allow the Swanstone
wall panels to rest against the lip of the shower base
once the moisture-resistant cement board is installed, as
shown.
BK-SB-003
3/16" MINIMUM
1/2" MAXIMUM
BK-SB-002
BK-SB-001
1/4"
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 12 800-325-7008
Installation Procedure

Do not use nails or screws to attach the base to the walls
or the floor. The mortar/thinset will prevent the shower
base from moving without any mechanical fasteners.
Do Not Use Nails
Do not use nails to secure the shower base to
the framing. The shower base must be level in
both directions when installed. Never use
hammers, nails, or screws which could adversely affect
the integrity of this product. Nails and screws could
puncture the shower base, resulting in water or other
damage to floors, pipes, walls, or other portions of your
building or home.
4. Level the shower base in both directions, and allow
the mortar/thinset to cure for 24 hours.
If no-hub, cast-iron drain pipe is used, make sure the
end of the pipe is free of nicks, cuts, or burrs. To ensure
a proper seal, lightly sand the drain pipe with emery
paper or “0000” steel wool.
5. Lubricate both caulk seal gasket (1) and drain pipe
(2) with either liquid hand soap or dishwashing
liquid, and slide the caulk seal gasket over the drain
pipe.
6. Complete the installation by snapping strainer plates
(3) into place. With metal strainers, it may be
necessary to bend the strainer tines slightly outward.
If you need to pry the strainer up from the drain, you
have a proper fit.
7. Place cardboard, or similar scratch resistant
material, in the bottom of the shower base to
prevent possible damage.
BK-SB-006
BK-SB-005
3
1
2
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-SB-004
WARNING
IMPORTANT NOTICE
800-325-7008 13 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

Wallboard Installation
This shower kit contains a recessed shampoo shelf that
fits into a standard wall stud opening. Before covering
the studs, determine the location of the recessed
shampoo shelf and make sure there are no pipes or
electrical wiring in this space. Marking the stud locations
on the cement board as it is installed (above 72” from the
floor) can help when later locating the wall stud opening.
1. Cut out openings for the shower faucet(s) and
shower head. Install 1/2” moisture-resistant cement
board or greenboard over back (1), front (2), and
rear (6) wall surfaces of the rough opening. Install
cement board or greenboard over all the surfaces of
the seat area (3, 4, & 5). Follow the cement board
manufacturer’s recommendations for installation.
Install the wall board with a 1/2” gap above the shower
base side lip, the front edge of the shower base, and the
floor to prevent possible water (wicking affect) damage
to the wall.
2. Apply a coat of water or oil-based primer/sealer to
all the surfaces of the cement board or greenboard
(follow the manufacturers’ instructions). Allow the
primer to dry thoroughly before applying any
silicone.
Seat Panel
1. Cut the seat panel to length. To prevent scratching,
protect the surface of the panel from the bottom of
the saw using masking tape.
NOTE: The length of the seat can vary, depending on
the amount of desired overhang and the type of material
used to cover the end of the bench seat. The width of
the bench seat is precut to 12-3/4” to provide a 1/2”
overhang.
BK-BS-001
BK-WB-002
1/2"
1/2"
1/2"
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-WB-001
3
1
2
4
5
6
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 14 800-325-7008
Installation Procedure

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.
2. Clean the backs of each panel with denatured
alcohol or another non oil-based cleaning solvent.
Do not use oil-based cleaners, such as mineral spirits, to
clean the panels. The oil in the cleaner will prevent the
panel from adhering properly to the wall.
3. Apply the silicone in 1-1/4” diameter dots 8 to 10
inches apart over the surface of the panel. Follow
the silicone manufacturers’ instructions and note all
ventilation and installation precautions.
4. Place the seat, with the rounded edges facing out,
onto the silicone. Make sure the seat is correctly
positioned and place weight on top of the seat to
hold it firmly in place.
Back Panel
1. Make a template for the bench seat cutout in the
back wall. The side of the box from the kit can be
used to make this template.
2. Cut out the corner of the template larger than the
seat area. Make sure the cardboard is square
against the wall and shower base.
BK-BP-001
BK-BS-002b
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-PI-001
WARNING
800-325-7008 15 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

3. Cut two smaller strips of cardboard and place one of
them against the seat surface. Tape the cardboard
in place.
4. Place the other cardboard strip against the face of
the seat. Tape the cardboard in place.
5. Place a small piece of tape next to the rounded
edge.
6. Carefully remove the template.
7. If the back wall is less than 59” wide, the panel will
need to be cut to fit the opening. Use a piece of
cardboard to create a template for the side opposite
the bench seat. Make sure the cardboard is laying
flat on top of the shower base and up against the
front wall. Scribe (mark) the cardboard template, as
shown. This will ensure the back panel fits the exact
contour of the front wall. Cutting the back panel to
precisely fit the wall is not necessary if the corner
molding supplied in the kit is used. This corner
molding will cover gaps up to 1/2”.
BK-Scribe-01
Installation Procedure
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 16 800-325-7008

8. Place the back wall panel, finished side facing up,
on a flat surface. Place the template(s) over the
wall panel and carefully trace the outline of the
template(s).
9. Remove the template(s) and place pieces of
masking tape over the area where the saw contacts
the Swanstone panel.
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.
All cutouts for notches or accessories should have
rounded corners (sharp corners can promote stress
cracks).
The cutout for the seat is a complicated cut and requires
precise accuracy to ensure a proper fit that will be
resistant to leaking.
10. Cut the panel using a sabre saw with a bi-metal
blade (14 teeth per inch).
Do not discard the cutoff piece from the back panel. It will
be used later in the installation.
11. Dry fit the back panel, and make any necessary
adjustments. Temporarily secure the back panel to
the wall in order to properly fit the front and rear
panels.
DO NOT force a panel to fit a bowed or curved wall as it
may break; furthermore, the resiliency of the panel can
break the silicone bond to the wall surface.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-BP-008
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-BP-007
IMPORTANT NOTICE
WARNING
BK
-
BP
-
006
800-325-7008 17 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

Front Panel (Left or Right-Side)
1. Place the front panel on top of the shower base and
slide it against the back wall panel. Scribe (mark)
the panel, as shown. Cut away the excess material
to allow the front panel to fit precisely against the
back panel. Scribing and cutting the panel will
provide a 90 degree corner with no need for corner
molding. Cutting the side panel to precisely fit the
wall is not necessary if the corner molding supplied
in the kit is used. This corner moulding will cover
gaps up to 1/2”.
2. Measure the openings for the shower faucet(s) and
shower head.
3. Transfer the measurements to the front panel.
4. Cut clearance holes using a router, sabre saw, or
hole saw. Drill from the finished side of the panel.
For best results, when drilling, place a scrap of wood
beneath the hole to ensure a clean cut.
5. Dry fit the front panel, and make any necessary
adjustments.
BK-FP-003b
BK-FP-003a
BK-FP-002
BK-FP-001
BK-Scribe-02
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 18 800-325-7008
Installation Procedure

Rear Panel (Right or Left-side)
1. Measure the distance from the top of the bench seat
to the top edge of the back panel. Cut the rear
panel to this length.
2. Measure the distance between the shower base and
the bottom of the bench seat. Again, cut a piece
from the rear panel.
The Swanstone panels have finished outside edges.
Make the second cut in the same area as the first cut.
3. Dry fit the rear panels, and make any necessary
adjustments. Scribe and cut both rear panels to fit
the back wall, or use the corner molding supplied in
the kit.
Panel Installation
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.
1. Clean the backs of each panel with denatured
alcohol or another non oil-based cleaning solvent.
Do not use oil-based cleaners, such as mineral spirits, to
clean the panels. The oil in the cleaner will prevent the
panel from adhering properly to the wall.
2. Apply the silicone in 1-1/4” diameter dots every 8 to
10 inches apart over the surface of the panel.
Follow the silicone manufacturers’ instructions and
note all ventilation and installation precautions.
BK-PI-002b
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-PI-001
WARNING
BK-RP-002
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-RP-001
1
2
800-325-7008 19 The Swan Corporation – Swanstone
Installation Procedure

3. Install back panel (1) first. Then, install front panel
(2). Finally, install rear panels (3 & 4).
NOTE: When using an industrial grade hot melt glue
gun in place of bracing, apply the silicone as stated in
Step 2. Apply the hot melt glue to the panel, as needed,
and press the panel firmly into place. The hot melt glue
will hold the panel until the silicone bonds to the wall.
This process is not recommended for the do-it-yourself
homeowner.
Do not use a home applicator, craft-type hot melt glue
gun. Using this type of glue gun will NOT hold the panels
in place long enough for the silicone to bond properly to
the wall.
4. Firmly press the surface of each panel against the
wall. It is important to apply hand pressure to the
entire surface of the panel to bond it to the wall
surface.
Apron Strips
Apron strips provide a finished look to your installation.
The two small apron strips can be cut from the scrap of
the back panel. When cutting these apron strips, make
sure the finished edge of the panel is facing outward.
1. Measure the distance from the top of the shower
base to the outside of the panel.
2. Cut two pieces of the Swanstone material.
3. Hold the apron strips in place and scribe the angle
of the shower base onto each piece. Remember, do
not cut the finished edge.
BK-AS-002
BK-AS-001
IMPORTANT NOTICE
BK-PI-003
1
2
3
4
The Swan Corporation – Swanstone 20 800-325-7008
Installation Procedure