How to Install a Bathtub

For some people, the bathroom is one of their most preferred rooms in the house other than their bedroom. It is here where they can enjoy their peace and quiet while pampering their body with a hot shower or bubble bath. So apart from the bed, the bathtub then serves as their second comfort area.

If you’re installing a bathtub in your home, you can either do it yourself with an assistant or let a professional do it for you. The first option is a money saver and ideal for those handy homeowners on a budget. Hiring a professional is the best option, however, for homeowners who don’t possess the basic carpentry and plumbing skills and who don’t want to make a mistake in this particular project.

Before you begin installing, check that the flooring is sturdy, level and with no damaged floorboards. Set up the supporting frame next according to your bathtub’s size. There should be a manual with specific instructions provided by the manufacturer upon your purchase. It is also very important to install the pipes first before putting the bathtub in place.

For the installation process, first frame the walls to fit the bathtub into the alcove. Make sure to leave a gap about 1/8 inch around the edge. Framing may be required to provide support to the tub. Keep in mind that the tub will be filled with water every now and then the reason for the framing support. For this part, be sure to check your area’s building codes.

This step should be followed by installing the hot and cold supply lines for the showerhead, faucet and risers. The supply lines are run to the tub and shower mixing valve where they are attached. For the shower head, a pipe is first installed up the wall and on top of this, sweat a brass female fitting. For the tub spout, extend a 1/2 inch pipe at the end of which a male threaded fitting should be installed.

The floor drain and the trap should also not be forgotten. The drain connection should be assembled next by connecting the tub overflow with the drain above the trap. This trap should have a fitting that is usually screwed over the overflow assembly.

At this stage, inspect your rough plumbing by restoring water pressure. Check the supply lines to see if there are any leaks and the drain connection as well.

When everything is working fine, replace the wall with drywall to act as the base for the wall covering such as the ceramic tile.

Position the tub in its place and check the level. If it’s not properly leveled, insert plastic shims underneath then mark the tub’s flange on the studs.

Then seal the joints between the tub and the wall using silicone caulk. This will protect your tub against any water leaks.

The final part is installing the handles, spout and shower head. All you need is to just screw the shower head onto the shower arm stub out.

Ensure that the pipe threads are clean and apply a joint compound as well to prevent any leaks.