Bathtub installation is not an easy job at all. If you are planning for a do –it–yourself bathtub installation, you still need expert services for plumbing and construction. Without an expert, you will not be able to perfect everything. So, the first and the most important thing that you need is an expert / plumber / constructor. Bathtub installation is not very difficult if you are replacing an old bathtub because the existing walls and plumbing are favorable enough to be used. However, if you are planning a completely new installation, the job becomes even harder.
Things You Need For a Bathtub Installation
Before you start your bathtub installation, you need to have the following things:
- Tube cutter
- Hacksaw
- Propane torch and soldering supplies
- Tape measure
- Plastic shims
- Galvanized nails and screws
- Drill
- New bathtub
- Wood strapping
- PVC drain pipe, fittings, P-trap, and overflow pipe
- Copper supply pipe
- Hammer
Bathtub Installation
- When you are ready for a bathtub installation, make sure that the walls are framed and the bathtub fits into a fixed position. The bathtub should leave a gap of at least 1/8 inches in the area of the border.
- Install the plumbing line supply lines and it must be dealt by an expert. Otherwise, chances of leakage are increased if plumbing lines are not installed perfectly.
- Next step for a bathtub installation is the installation of the faucets that include showerhead as well as rises.
- Place the bathtub into its position and check that it is been aligned perfectly. You can use a level to check accurately. Moreover, in a bathtub installation using plastic wedges is better as compared to wooden ones.
- Position the ledger boards in a way that they are attached to the wall studs just below the edge of the bathtub. They help in supporting the bathtub.
- The P-trap’s top must installed in line with the floor and it should be placed in a central position under the drain pipe.
- Measure the required length of drainpipes and overflow pipes. Cut down the excessive length and fit the pipes with a length which is ideal according to the position and size of your bathtub.
- Install the ledger boards and make sure that you are installing them on the previously marked position.
- For rust protection, use screws that are covered with zinc. It is essential for an efficient bathtub installation.
- Place the tub into its place, setting it on the plastic ledgers. Here, you need to make sure that the drainpipe coming from the bathtub falls into the P-trap.
- Fix the bathtub by tightening the screws and nuts which must again be covered with zinc for rust protection.
- Join the cover plate with the drain plug for the overflow. Your bathtub installation gets completed here.
Checking Leakage after the Bathtub Installation
Once you are done with your bathtub installation, turn on the water and check if there is any leakage of water. Make sure that everything is working perfectly including the plumbing and the drainage. If there is any leakage, which you cannot handle, call a professional plumber and check where you made mistakes. |