To install a new bathtub, follow these steps:
- Choose a bathtub that fits your bathroom's size, style, and plumbing layout.
- Turn off the water supply to avoid spills.
- Remove the old bathtub by detaching its hardware. You may need to adjust the surrounding area to make room for the new tub.
- Prepare the space, then place the new tub, making sure it's level and aligned.
- Assemble the drain and attach the tub to the bathroom's structure.
- Seal the tub's edges and put any surrounding fixtures back in place to finish the installation.
Selecting the Right Bathtub
Choosing the right bathtub requires ensuring the dimensions and drain orientation match the existing plumbing and space. Standard bathtubs typically measure 5 feet long and 30 to 32 inches wide, compatible with most alcoves. It's crucial to choose a left or right drain tub to align with the plumbing.
Bathtubs come in various materials. Fiberglass is affordable and light, simplifying installation. Cast iron is durable with a traditional look but is heavy and needs additional support. Steel is a compromise, offering durability with less weight than cast iron.
Material choice affects installation, maintenance, and style. Before installing a bathtub, check for damages and keep it packaged to prevent scratches or dents. Ensure the subfloor is level for proper support. Use skids to slide the bathtub into the alcove to protect both the tub and the floor.
Preparing for Installation
Before starting the installation process, gather all necessary tools and materials and clear the vicinity of any obstructions. Measure your existing bathtub space to confirm the replacement tub will fit, typically measuring 5 feet by 30 to 32 inches. Shut off the water supply to prevent flooding.
Proceed to remove the old tub. Verify that the water is off by turning on the faucet and releasing any pressure in the pipes by opening a lower-level valve. Remove the drain flange with a tub drain wrench and disconnect the drainpipe. To remove the tub spout, turn it counterclockwise if it screws on, or loosen the setscrew if present.
After tub removal, ensure there is clear access to the drain for the new tub's connection. Remove any old grout or remnants from the previous tub surround and smooth the surface for the new tub. Check that the subfloor is level to prevent future drainage or stability issues before installing the new tub.
Removing the Old Tub
To remove an old bathtub, first shut off the water supply and disconnect the drain using a tub drain wrench. Gain access to the underside of the tub, either through an access panel or by cutting drywall, to detach the overflow pipe. Remove any stringer supports from the walls and cut the caulk around the tub base.
Place 1 x 4 boards beneath the tub's front edge to slide it out on skids, protecting the floor. For cast iron tubs, you may need to break the tub into pieces with a sledgehammer. For other materials like steel, composite, or fiberglass, use a reciprocating saw to cut the tub for removal. Wear safety equipment to prevent injury.
Setting the New Bathtub
After preparing the alcove, place the new bathtub on the skids, aligning it with the drain and water supply. The bathtub's drain must match the existing plumbing. Use a level on the rim to check if the tub is level and adjust if needed.
Connect the tub's drain by attaching the drain shoe underneath and securing the overflow cover inside with provided screws. Ensure tight connections to prevent leaks and apply plumber's putty or sealant around the drain flange for a watertight seal.
Secure the bathtub flange to the wall studs using the screws that come with the tub, following the manufacturer's guidelines. This stabilizes the bathtub and maintains the connections.
Test for leaks by filling the tub with water and inspecting the drain and overflow. Fix any leaks by tightening and sealing connections.
These steps ensure a properly installed bathtub, ready for finishing touches and long-term use without leaks.
Installing the Drain Assembly
To install a new bathtub drain assembly correctly and prevent leaks, start by applying plumber's putty under the drain flange to create a watertight seal. Use a tub drain wrench to remove the old flange without causing damage. After removing the flange, detach the drain pipe below the tee.
Access the underside of the tub. If there's an access panel, use it; if not, you may need to cut the drywall to reach the plumbing. Remove all parts of the current drain assembly and replace any worn or damaged components.
Clean the area to prepare for the new installation, removing any old caulk or sealant. For safety, have someone assist you because handling a tub can be difficult and unsafe alone.
Install the overflow drain assembly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This part prevents overflows by directing excess water into the drain system. Connect the drain to the waste and overflow unit, ensuring a tight fit. Double-check all connections to ensure they are secure and there are no leaks before moving on with the bathtub installation.
Securing the Bathtub
To secure the bathtub in the alcove, attach the flange to the wall studs. Position the bathtub so the flange is against the studs and use roofing nails or galvanized screws for attachment, adhering to the manufacturer's instructions on fastener spacing and size to avoid damaging the tub or voiding the warranty.
If needed, install a stringer or ledger board to support the bathtub's length. Mount this board level with the studs at the height specified by the manufacturer. Use shims to ensure the tub fits snugly against the stringer if there are gaps. Check that the tub base is level; apply floor leveler if necessary before placing the tub.
For some tub types, spreading an even layer of mortar on the floor may be required for stability and leveling. Place the tub onto the mortar before it sets, working quickly to ensure proper placement.
Once the tub is secured, reconnect the drain and overflow components, making sure all connections are tight to avoid leaks. This process is essential for a successful bathroom renovation.
Finishing Touches and Sealing
When installing a new bathtub, it's important to seal the edges with a watertight sealant to prevent water damage. Failure to do so can result in mold, mildew, or structural damage. The sealant should be applied to the three sides of the tub that meet the walls.
First, clean the area where the sealant will be applied to ensure good adhesion. Remove all debris, dust, or old sealant. Then, use a quality silicone caulk designed for bathrooms that is resistant to mold and mildew. Cut the caulk tube tip at a 45-degree angle for smooth application.
Apply the sealant where the tub meets the wall, using a caulking tool or a damp finger to smooth it into the gap and ensure a watertight seal. Work quickly to avoid the caulk skinning over.
After sealing, check for complete coverage and add more sealant if necessary. Let the sealant cure as per the manufacturer's instructions before using the tub to ensure durability and maintain the bathroom's condition.
