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