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