how to install a bathtub

If you need to cut the drywall away, do so directly behind the overflow valve and down to the floor. The first step is to shut off the water for the bathroom you’ll be working in. Place a bead of plumber’s putty around the drain flange and wrap Teflon pipe tape around the threads on its body. Use a tool designed for tub drain removal, called a tub drain wrench, to remove the drain flange. Install the New Tub Drain Fitting . ", Step 4: After doing this, take out the tub and set it aside. Insert the fitting into the bathtub drain opening, making sure to center it. Use denatured alcohol because it will remove soap buildup. Tub surrounds and shower surrounds are easy to install and maintain. Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), Disconnect the Drain Flange and Overflow Cover, Step 1: Don't worry if you don't own all the items needed to complete this DIY project. Push the tub down into the mortar to get a level position and secure one screw through the tub lip and into the stud. Level the panel and make sure it sits flush against the lip of the tub or shower pan. The installation, which is essentially the same for a stall shower or tub/shower, is a no-brainer. Use the manufacturer’s specifications or measure the distance from the top of the flange to the underside of the tub; it’s usually 1 inch. Tub drains have different components that first need to be removed, so methods on this step may vary. This pad needs to rest fully on the subfloor. Cover the underside of the new flange with plumbers’ putty, then twist it into the drain opening. Cut a 2 x 4 the length of your tub. Set the new tub into place and check it for level. Insert the ends of the overflow pipe and waste pipe in the T-fitting. If the tub is fiberglass, drill holes at each stud. ", Step 12: ", Step 7: Deep clean and remove tough stains from your tub for a new sparkling look. ", Step 6: Apply a generous band of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the flange on the new fitting. You can also use galvanized screws equipped with galvanized washers. Installation Services. This guide will teach you both how to remove a bathtub and how to install a bathtub. Perhaps you have an old bathtub and now want to change it for a larger one or one that you can use for soaking in. Use 100% silicone to adhere the rubber gasket and drain to the tub. Upgrading your bathtub can drastically improve your bathroom’s appearance and your family’s comfort. Follow our ten steps to update your bathroom with a surround. For new unit installation. The adaptability, durability and convenient installation of acrylic liners are undoubtedly factors in this decision. Once you've loosened the nut connecting the drainpipe, completely unscrew it by hand and lift out the entire drain assembly. Take the height and measure that same distance below the reference line on each stud. ", Step 5: Replacing a broken bathtub spout is a simple, inexpensive project. If you have any misgivings about doing it, hire a plumber who has the experience to install it and the license to hook up the fixtures. Locate the main line and turn it all the way off. Remove the Tub If you want to change your faucet handles, you need to … The tub can be removed whole with some help. Whether you’re fixing a faulty drain or upgrading your hardware, installing a new drain is a fairly straightforward job. In many cases there should be an access panel behind the wall. ", Step 3: With an assistant, tip up one side of the bathtub to remove it. Measuring and cutting the tracks The top and bottom tracks supplied by the manufacturer must be cut slightly shorter than the width of the your shower’s opening. Install level ledger strip and leveling supports. ", Step 11: ", Step 8: Other drains do not have a visible drain stopper, so the drain flange is already accessible. Many new tubs have a sound-deadening and leveling pad on the underside. The side that holds the drain opening determines what type of tub you need. Any surface demolition, structural modifications and surrounding surface finishing if … When it's in position, the flange should rest on the stringer that was just installed along the back wall. If you need help completing this project, hire our professional bathroom installation services. Apply plumber's putty around the retaining ring and screw it into place with the drain pipe. For safe entry and exit, install a vertical grab bar inside your shower 18 to 24 inches from the shower head end. Learn More. How to Tell Whether Your Vehicle Needs a Tune-up. While you’re replacing an old tub with a new one, this is also a good time to update the tub’s drain assembly. Follow these steps to apply mortar to the subfloor of the tub: Mix a batch of mortar according to the package directions. Developing a sound plan and working with a good assistant will help ensure you get everything right. Dispose of the Old Tub If so, install the remaining panel before turning to the front wall panel. How you dispose of the old tub will depend on what type of tub it is. Now the tub is technically free from the drain assembly. If the drain opening is on the left side, look for a left drain tub. Cut up steel, composite or fiberglass tubs with a. Porcelain-enameled steel tubs should be disposed whole. Since you've already marked the top edge of the flange on the studs, you'll need to allow for the height of the flange to install the stringer. You may need to remove a small portion of the drywall next to the tub area to accommodate one of the outer corners of the tub as it swings upward. You may want to leave the drain linkage and pop-up assembly out of the tub until you set it in place. If it does not, the stringer may be too high or too low; remove it, readjust and reset the tub. If necessary, use a. Check the tub is level again on the main wall then transfer your level to the front of the tub. The Home Depot offers tool and truck rental for any DIY project. Remove all surface objects from your existing bathtub, like adhesive nonslip strips. Secure the flange on all three walls, as well as the sides of the tub. With the tub in place, finish off the wall with drywall, tile or tub surround. All Rights Reserved. Use a straight edge to mark a guideline all the way around. Connect the overflow pipe and drainpipe with a tee where they meet. Some kits have two side wall panels. Then, turn on the faucet in your tub to drain the lines. Related Searches. Naturally, this is the most time-intensive and expensive option, and involves gutting your existing bathtub in order to install a new one. Attach the cover plate inside the tub to the overflow elbow and gasket behind the tub using the screws provided in the overflow drain assembly kit. Use deck screws to attach it to the studs on the new reference marks. Secure and Finish Do not drill the flange. Push the tub into the enclosure and mark the top of the flange on the wall studs with a pencil. Before you begin the bathtub installation, check the tub rim for level, both front to back and side to side (Photo 7). Remove any screws or nails that secure the bathtub lip to the wall. Doing so creates a continuous ledge on the tub enclosure wall for the tub to rest on. Place your foot on the inside edge of the tub to hold it steady while securing one screw in the center of the tub on the main wall. How to Install a New Bathtub Placing the ledger board. Step one is to dry fit the bathtub. As you do, make sure not to disrupt the drain assembly you just attached. The tub is attached directly to the studs through a flange that tucks under the wall surrounding the tub - which will either be drywall, tile, a tub surround or something similar. Keep in mind that most standard bathtubs are 5-feet long and either 30- or 32-inches wide. 1 tub: $504.75: $1,202.60: Bathtub Installation Labor, Basic Basic labor to install bathtub with favorable site conditions. Be safe and have a helper for these next few steps. Take a bit of plumber’s putty, roll it in your hands and place it on the underside of the drain flange. Carefully move the tub back into place. Getting in and out of a shower isnt always easy, even when youre fit and able. Before we cover how to install a new tub, check the unit over and report any damage to the manufacturer. To make repairing the wall easier, measure a standard distance up from the top of the tub. A new bathtub brings a refreshing look in the bathroom interior. Drill pilot holes in the panel flanges where they meet the studs, and screw or nail the panel to the wall. Your new tub - whether porcelain or fiberglass - can get damaged, so keep it safely packaged until you're ready to install it. Install a new bathtub faucet to replace a leaky or corroded one and enhance the look of your bathroom. If your bathroom doesn't have a separate shutoff valve, turn off the water to the entire house. To put in the drain, turn the tub on its side and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions. In this article, we'll show you the most common types of spouts, and how to replace them. Hammer carefully so as not to damage the tub. If you have a sore knee or a sprained ankle, you may find it nearly impossible to maneuver safely without a secure handle. Check the tub is level again on the main wall then transfer your level to the … Local store prices may vary from those displayed. This step makes tub installation easier. If it's on the right, you need a right drain tub. Before securing the tub, make sure the top of the flange lines up with the reference marks you established earlier. This will help you select the right size tub for your space. Installing a tub isn’t an easy do-it-yourself project because it involves working with a large, heavy object in a small space. Wiggle the handle and pull it off. Install the Stringer Hooking up the plumbing. ", Step 10: Turn the tub over or rest it on its side and then follow these steps: Follow the manufacturer’s directions and assemble the shoe fitting, which is placed under the tub and the waste pipe. This step is not essential to replacing a bathtub since there are no water lines connected to it. Connect the pipes and tighten them down snugly, but don't over-tighten. If you carefully prepare and work with a helper, you can complete this DIY project in one day. Tighten it completely with the drain wrench tool and remove any excess putty. Remove the Bathtub . This new mark will serve as the top edge of the stringer you'll install. Reinstall the baseboard and finish moulding around and in front of the tub. Use ear protection and exercise extreme caution when performing this task. Measure and cut the overflow pipe, install the gasket and attach the overflow assembly according to the manufacturer's directions. Before you begin, measure your current bathtub alcove around the shower walls. To connect the overflow valve, place the rubber gasket onto the overflow elbow and position it behind the tub. The process is the same whether you have a single handle faucet or one with multiple controls. How to Install a Bathtub Insert Clean the existing bathtub surface thoroughly to ensure that the adhesive can make a lasting bond. Remove the O-ring and any other components that could be damaged from the heat then slide the adapter over the pipe. If necessary, use shims to even it out. It’s best to disconnect the rest of the drain assembly from the plumbing below. Place the handles of a pair of pliers in the drain flange. Installing a new bathroom with a toilet, sink, and tub is a challenging do-it-yourself project. One person should lift the front edge of the tub, while another slides a couple of 1 x 4 boards underneath to get it off the floor. Slide the tub out of the alcove using the 1 x 4 boards as skids. Since this basement bathroom was self leveled our bathtub was also perfectly level – but it’s always good to double check. Connect the Drain [1] X Research source In many cases, you can install a bathroom faucet in less time than it takes to select one from the broad range of fixtures that are available for your sink.. Check with your local sanitation or recycling company for details on disposing of your old tub. Do this in the bathroom so you can remove the tub in sections. Use a pair of channel lock pliers to disconnect the drain pipe below the tee where the drain and overflow valve meet. Remove the screws or nails all the way around the front, top and sides of the tub with a pry bar. If youre installing a grab bar for someone with an injury or disability, have that person help you find the best location. It ensures that the area - and you - will remain dry should a valve accidentally get bumped on during the remaining steps. Need Help? Make sure the drain and overflow plumbing coming out of your tub is aligned with the rough-in drain outlet in your bathroom. If there isn’t one, you can cut away the drywall and patch it in later. Choose Your Tub If not, adjust it by placing wood shims under the tub. ", Before tackling the bathtub removal, shut off the water supply to the tub. ", Step 9: Remove the tub stopper from the new drain fitting. Install the drain strainer onto the flange. It’s easier to install the drain and overflow pipes on the tub before it’s permanently installed in the enclosure. Tip: Wear protective eyewear and work gloves when you remove and replace a bathtub. A 2 x 4 stringer attached directly to the studs will help support the tub along its length. … With a notched trowel, spread a 2-inch layer of mortar on the subfloor where the tub will sit. Make sure the subfloor is level and that the tub will fit securely on it. Installation can vary from product to product, so read the manufacturer's instructions carefully. To replace a bathtub, first you'll need to cut a hole in the wall behind your tub and turn off the water supply to your bathroom. Use a screwdriver to disconnect and remove the tub's waste and overflow valve cover. Next, determine the tub’s drain pipe location. Take a pencil and mark a reference line on the studs all the way around on all three sides. Use another piece of cardboard to protect the exposed porcelain side as well. Again, remember to wear protective gloves and eye protection when removing a bathtub. Use coarse drywall screws to fasten the ledger board horizontally and level across the back wall of the alcove. Use your helper to carefully set the tub onto the skids and slide it into place in the alcove. Step 1 - Install Piping Before Tub. Choose the size that is closest to your measurement. The number of holes in your sink or vanity top can influence the style of bathroom faucets you choose. Separate the Tub from the Wall Cut out a section of the cardboard to put inside the tub to help protect the surface while you work. A good way to avoid … Even if you've never tackled a plumbing project before, you can handle replacing the spout. Once it's in position, check to see if the tub is level. Don't forget to turn the water back on but be sure to wait 24 hours before using the tub. Removing a bathtub and installing a new one is an approachable task for many. Unscrew the handle screw with a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver as needed. Place your foot on the inside edge of the tub to hold it steady while securing one screw in the center of the tub on the main wall. Roofing nails are a good option because they do not rust. If the fittings on your bathtub drain are galvanized steel, use a penetrating lubricant like PB Blaster to loosen the joints first. Lift the tub in place and position it so that it’s tight against the walls. A common height used to install grab bars in bathtub areas is between 32 and 36 inches from the bottom of the tub or shower floor. Your measurement will be slightly less than those numbers because of the shower wall surfaces (tile, shower surround, etc). Figure the shim size needed to level it, then remove the tub and tack the shims at the tub leg positions. If it does, go ahead and attach the tub flange to the studs with roofing nails. However, if your floor is made of concrete or cement, bathtub installation will require some special preparations. Assemble the tub's drain plumbing. Position © 2000-2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. Secure the flange to the studs by driving 1-inch galvanized roofing nails through the holes in the flange. If removing tile, cut along a grout line using a. Then, remove the tub spouts, drains, and drain shoe, and take out the tub surround and drywall around the tub. The first step in installing a tub is to set in place a ledger board that supports the edges of the tub that contact the walls of the tub enclosure. Instead, use the head of the fastener to hold the flange down. Remove any stringer supports left on the wall. Tip: Contact your local recycling center for details on how to dispose of an old bathtub. Cut out a section of the wall approximately 6-inches above the tub on each of the three sides and along the front of the tub. Some drains have a visible drain stopper that unscrews. If it’s been in place for a while, they may be stuck together by dried plumber’s putty or something similar. Break up cast iron tubs with a sledgehammer. After removing the old stopper, take out the old drain flange, or the housing that connects the tub and drain to the pipe below. Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. Also remove any trim moulding from the sides of the alcove. Apply a layer of flux to the outside of the surface. Wear your safety glasses and gloves. This offers access to the drain flange at the bottom of the tub. You'll need a thorough understanding of plumbing systems and techniques. Turn off the water at the main line. If your bathtub faucet is old or broken, you can easily replace it with a new one all by yourself. Place a rubber washer on the shoe and position the shoe under the tub in alignment with the drain flange. If you have a fiberglass tub surround, remove that first. Place a rubber washer on the overflow drain and install the overflow cover with the screws provided. Position the drain shoe on the underside of the tub and screw the drain flange into the threads. To find out what type of tub you need, face the alcove. ", Step 2: After the tub is level, you secure it to the enclosure to keep it that way. Amy used a … The hotel industry has generally decided that bathtub liners and tub surrounds are the best way to renovate and update their hard working bathrooms. Set the New Tub Into Place Use of this site is subject to certain Terms Of Use. Cut away any caulk between the tub and floor with a utility knife. Read Our Guide. Step two is to install the cable bath drain. Disconnect the Drain Assembly You may also want hearing protection since the removal process can get loud. Hold a carpenter’s level on the tub and check that it’s level. kohler bathtub free standing tub bathtub and shower combo tub and shower combo whirlpool bathtubs left bathtubs. Securing the tub. Knowing how to remove a bathtub and how to replace a bathtub means you can make big upgrades to your home’s bathrooms yourself. If it’s a steel or cast-iron tub and it has no holes, or they don’t align with the studs, drive the nails above the top of the flange so that the head of each nail engages the flange. Put this assembly in place to check that shoe and overflow align with the openings in the tub. Tub & Shower Liner Installation. Assemble the overflow fitting with the overflow pipe. Fasten shorter ledger boards to the ends of the enclosure, level with the board you install on the back wall. To install the tub spout, solder the enclosed adapter to the outlet pipe. Disconnect the Drain Flange and Overflow Cover Turn Off the Water Insert the blade of a large screwdriver between the handles of the pliers and use it as a lever to tighten the drain flange. These installation procedures for your shower tub should allow you to tie into your present drain, waste vent, and supply systems.Once all the roughing in has been completed, you’re ready to assemble your shower and bathtub.. Begin by using a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the handle’s plastic cover (also called the plastic insert or index). Take a bit of plumber’s putty, roll it in your hands and place it on the underside of the drain flange. The stringer is the crosspiece that supports the edge of the tub. With the alcove now exposed, clean the area and remove any leftover nails or debris. Unpack the new tub and set it into place. Attach the Overflow Drain Assembly If you have access to the floor from below, access the drain there instead. Secure tub to wall / deck. To disconnect the drain, you need to gain access to the underside of the tub. All other types of bathtub materials are relatively light. Remove approximately 6-inches of that material all the way back to the studs. Measure and mark the location for the top of the ledger, usually about 1 inch below the first mark. Test that the water is off by turning on the. Bathroom was self leveled our bathtub was also perfectly level – but it s... Bathtub faucet is old or broken, you need to cut the drywall,... These next few steps the rest of the flange on all three walls, as well as the of. Sure not to disrupt the drain there instead tool designed for tub removal. That could be damaged from the drain flange into the drain there instead will dry. From below, access the drain wrench tool and truck rental for any DIY project have different components that be... Putty to the studs with a pencil ’ ll be working in ledge on the easier! Carefully so as not to damage the tub flange to the manufacturer 's instructions leave the drain.! Cut up steel, use the head of the flange on the wall! Step may vary, heavy object in a small space adhesive can make lasting. Tub surrounds are easy to install a new sparkling look at the of..., take out the entire drain assembly that was just installed along the back wall material all the around... And working with a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver as needed @ domain.com on this step is essential! Called the plastic insert or index ) whole with some help apply a layer of flux to the of. Water lines connected to it drywall screws to fasten the ledger board horizontally level. … replacing a broken bathtub spout is a fairly straightforward job email address in the you. Where the drain there instead was just installed along the back wall flange down in. Rental for any DIY project or index ) the surface while you work same! Continuous ledge on the left side, look for a stall shower or tub/shower, a! You find the best way to renovate and update their hard working bathrooms hold a carpenter s... Leftover nails or debris that unscrews use galvanized screws equipped with galvanized.! As the sides of the fastener to hold the flange on the and. And reset the tub 's waste and overflow valve meet stopper, read! Make a lasting bond Labor to install a new one all by yourself it into place and position behind... Free standing tub bathtub and how to install the gasket and attach the overflow valve and to. Can remove the tub enclosure wall for the tub on its side and it. Once you 've how to install a bathtub the nut connecting the drainpipe, completely unscrew it Placing... Nail the panel how to install a bathtub where they meet the studs on the tub waste... Once you 've never tackled a plumbing project before, you need face. Directly behind the overflow cover with the board you install on the underside gasket and attach tub... Easily replace it with a helper for these next few steps truck rental for any project... Instructions carefully the faucet in your email address in the panel flanges where they meet studs. Terms of use be slightly less than those numbers because of the pliers and use as! Never tackled a plumbing project before, you need, face how to install a bathtub alcove sink or vanity top can influence style... Easy to install a new one all by yourself cover how to bathtub... Your hands and place it on the overflow pipe and drainpipe with a new one is approachable... The openings in the drain flange and wrap Teflon pipe tape around the threads on side... Channel lock pliers to disconnect the rest of the drain flange level on the wall studs with a assistant. Project before, you can handle replacing the spout a new drain a. Nails through the tub into the threads usually about 1 inch below the reference marks tip: Wear protective and. Labor to install a bathtub since there are no water lines connected to it read the manufacturer 's instructions.... Use 100 % silicone to adhere the rubber gasket and drain shoe the. From product to product, so read the manufacturer 's directions height and measure that same below. The 1 x 4 boards as skids finish moulding around and in front the! Research source how to install a new drain is a simple, inexpensive project on. To disrupt the drain assembly you just attached, bathtub installation will some... A large screwdriver between the tub along its length concrete or cement bathtub., which is essentially the same whether you ’ re fixing a faulty drain or your! Right drain tub the process is the same for a left drain tub, the! This project, hire our professional bathroom installation services the shim size needed to level it readjust. This basement bathroom was self leveled our bathtub was also perfectly level – but it ’ s to! Tubs have a separate shutoff valve, turn off the handle ’ s plastic (. However, if your bathroom the bathtub drain are galvanized steel, composite or fiberglass tubs a.. Or broken, you can remove the tub so methods on this step may.. And lift out the entire drain assembly this is the crosspiece that supports the edge of alcove. Alcove using the tub will fit securely on it a level position and secure one through., use a screwdriver to pry off the water back on but sure... We cover how to install bathtub with favorable site conditions helper for these few... Turn the tub is technically free from the new tub, make sure the drain linkage and pop-up out. Helper for these next few steps or a sprained ankle, you need @ domain.com gloves and protection! Side as well as the sides of the tub 's waste and overflow with... The pipes and tighten them down snugly, but do n't own all the items to! Down snugly, but do n't over-tighten screws or nails all the way off place and position behind. Out of your tub fittings on your bathtub drain are galvanized steel, use the of! ’ ll be working in the Home Depot offers tool and truck rental for any DIY project, the! Drain fitting a carpenter ’ s comfort the shower wall surfaces ( tile, cut along grout... A flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver as needed [ 1 ] x Research source to. Installation services the tub good assistant will help ensure you get everything right entry and exit, the! The board you install on the subfloor where the tub and set it into with. A good assistant will help support the tub and set it into.. And leveling pad on the tub can be removed, so the drain is. See if the tub in sections disconnect and remove any leftover nails or.. In many cases there should be disposed whole the enclosed adapter to the package directions to get a level and.

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