Installing a bathtub might be a difficult and costly task, but with the correct equipment and knowledge, it is not impossible to do it yourself. This post will go through seven methods for installing a bathtub on your own. From site preparation to plumbing connections, these approaches can help you save money and time while assuring a flawless installation.
By following these instructions, you may confidently tackle the challenge of installing a bathtub and creating a pleasant and comfortable space in your bathroom. Now, let’s begin!
The Supplies You’ll Need
To install a standalone tub, you will need the following supplies.
- Level
- Blanket
- Bathtub
- Items for cleaning
- Caulk
- Plumber’s putty
- Damp cloth
Identify the type of tub
Before putting a freestanding tub in your bathroom, it’s a good idea to think about your bathroom’s size, purpose, and how it will blend in with other fixtures. Because it will all have an affect on your bathroom as a whole.
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Decorative or practical
The ideal solitary tub should have both aesthetic appeal and usefulness. This suggests that it is not only beautiful but also functional. However, there are some homeowners that want a bathtub solely for just decorative purposes.
If that’s the case then you should pick a tub that will meet that preference. On the other hand, if a bathtub is something that you see that will be in use almost everyday, choose a tub that is comfortable to lounge in and is not slippery, to name a few.
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Tub Size and Bathroom Dimensions
The dimensions of your bathtub and bathroom can have a big impact on the overall appearance and functionality of your bathroom. If a bathtub is too huge for your bathroom it can make the space feel crowded and uncomfortable, while a tub that is too small can leave you feeling confined throughout your bath time.
The amount of water used to fill your bathtub is also affected by its size, which might increase your water cost. Furthermore, the size of your bathroom will influence if you have enough space to add other features such as a separate shower cubicle, vanity, or storage. As a result, when purchasing a bathtub, you must evaluate the size of your bathroom as well as your demands.
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Type of Floor
The bathroom floor must be level. Generally speaking, bathroom floors are not flat enough to support the installation of freestanding bathtubs. You might occasionally have to exert a lot of effort to make sure the floor is level. You should be informed that freestanding flooring is not installed with inconsistencies on the ground.
Guide to Installing a Freestanding Tub in 7 Simple Steps
If you don’t want to pay extra pennies to have your bathtub installed, you can always do it yourself. A simple YouTube guide to installing a freestanding tub can do you wonders. However, the process needs precision and caution.
Below are the tested steps on how you can do it yourself––or at least maybe with a little help from your partner.
Step 1: Choose the place of the tub
You must now choose the ideal location to build your standalone bath. You have the option of putting it on the side, in the center, or close to the window. Only the proximity to the existing plumbing poses a difficulty. You should hire a professional plumber if it’ll need some remodeling of the pipes.
Step 2: Choose the proper tub
The market is full of standalone bathtubs to choose from. Consider purchasing a product that will fit your bathroom’s dimensions. Also, it needs to be durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.
Step 3: Get the floor ready
As mentioned earlier, ensure that your floor is flawless and leveled out before installing your standalone tub. Unfortunately, you will need some floor work if it isn’t level.
If your subfloor is made of wood, measure the size of your tub. Duplicate the bottom of the freestanding tub on the floor. Open up this area of the flooring. Create a hole large enough to accommodate the drain and the plumbing trap. You will need a channel for the drain and plumbing trap if the floor is concrete.
To prevent dirt and debris from entering, remember to block the drain hole. The finishing touches must be put on the concrete floor.
Step 4: Make Sure the Drain Nut is Present
Each standalone tub comes with a drain kit. Make sure the drain nut is present. Confirm the bathtub’s waste lines up with the floor’s drain hole. You can measure the distance between the bathtub drain and the floor to find out its alignment.
Place a blanket by the tub’s side. To support it, use cardboard.
Step 5: Sanitize the drain hole
The floor is tidy right now. But before installing the freestanding tub, you’ll need a clean drain hole. Attempt to remove all the dirt and debris from the drain hole.
For the cleaning, you might use a moist cloth. Let it dry after that. Last but not least, insert some dry silicone into and around the drain hole.
Step 6: Get ready for the drain tailpiece
On the drain tailpiece, start by installing a plastic bushing. From the bottom of the standalone tub, attach the drain tailpiece. Slide the nuts into the tub drain and secure them with screws. The rubber seal on the drain may need some lubricating.
Step 7: Get the Freestanding Bathtub in place
Guide the tub into position now. You should caulk the standalone tub where it meets the floor. Make an effort to remove any extra caulk using a moist cloth.
Maintenance Advice for freestanding bathtubs
Just like other items in your home, if your tub is not maintained properly, it will not last you a long time. It’s only fair that we all get into the ways to properly maintain your freestanding tub after installing it.
Maintain your bathtub using these tips:
- Look for any hair clogs in your drain. Pull the hair out using a little stick.
- Polish the surface and get rid of any minor scuffs with a gentle cleaning agent.
- To create a bleach solution, combine 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. On the tub’s exterior, spread the solution. For the stains to get out, wait around 10 minutes.
- Use fine sandpaper to get rid of the more difficult stains and scratches. To fix damaged old freestanding bathtub surfaces, you can use sandpaper for patching. Wash the tub with water to try and get rid of the grime and grit.
- Use 800-grit paper to sand the surface. Dry the surface, then polish it to display a faultless finish.
- Rubbing alcohol can cut stains on the tub caused by grease, oil, ink, and paint.
- Rust and grease in the water show a malfunctioning heater. You will clean the water heater after washing the bathtub.
- Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installation and maintenance.
Conclusion
DIY freestanding bathtub installation is doable with proper materials and knowledge. Before installation, assess bathtub type and size, bathroom dimensions, and floor level. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can DIY install your freestanding bathtub and enjoy its luxurious aesthetic.
Additionally, maintaining your freestanding bathtub is easy with regular cleaning and drain maintenance. If installation issues arise, seek professional plumbing help right away.
