Installing a bathtub can be a difficult job to accomplish, and you may need to call a professional plumber. A tub is large and heavy, and the bathroom may have an unusual shape or be very narrow, which can make removing the old tub and installing the new one a real challenge. However, the tubs can wear out over time and need replacing. To do all this, you will need help. Read the steps below to understand how to install a bathtub.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Part One: Measure the Bathroom
Step 1. Make sure there is enough space to install the new tub
Measure the old one and the bathroom entrance. Sometimes, the bathtub is installed during the construction of the house, before the walls are finished, causing a problem when you decide to remove it. Make sure you can get the old one out and the new one in.
Step 2. Buy a new tub with the drain on the same side as the old one
If it is not the same model as the previous one, you will need to modify the piping later.
Step 3. Recognize that you may also need to remove the toilet, sink, and cabinet to be able to transport the new tub inside
Method 2 of 4: Part Two: Remove the Old Tub
Step 1. Turn off the water supply and dry the pipes by turning on the tap below the level of the bathroom
Step 2. Strip the pipes and remove the hot and cold water taps up to the junctions
Step 3. Remove the tub drain using an adjustable wrench, then loosen the nut that connects the runner tube from the tub drain
Step 4. Remove the hand shower, drain and faucet
To do this, you may need to remove part of the wall surrounding the tub. A row of tiles around the tub should suffice. Protect your eyes as you chisel the tiles.
Step 5. Disconnect all plumbing and take out the old tub
Use wooden planks as a support to move this heavy tub.
Step 6. Make the wall surface fit
Remember that normal masonry cannot withstand humidity, so use a correct layer of concrete.
Method 3 of 4: Part Three: Prepare to Install the New Tub
Step 1. Move the tub to where you want to install it, and mark its highest point on the wall tiles
You will need some wooden boards and some helpers to move the tub.
Step 2. Also mark where the top of the support will be (a few centimeters below the previous mark)
This narrow plank will support the tub edges where they touch the bathroom walls.
Step 3. Install the support board, using wall screws
Make sure it's straight.
Step 4. Turn the tub to one side, and mount the shower housing, which will go under the drain and tub
Dry and connect the drain to the water pipe.
Step 5. Reassemble the water pipe and place it in its place
Check that it lines up with the tub slots.
Step 6. Place a ring of plumbing putty around the edge of the drain, snap the threads, insert the hand shower into the housing and place everything carefully
Screw the drain cock into the housing and tighten it tightly.
Step 7. Connect the drain to the tub and screw it firmly into place
Step 8. Install the hand shower cover following the manufacturer's instructions
This will protect the hand shower and increase the water output.
Method 4 of 4: Part Four: Secure the Tub
Step 1. Spread some mortar under the floor where you will place the tub, about 5 cm thick
Step 2. Position the new bathtub correctly and check that it is level
If it isn't, you will need to replace the feet of the tub to keep the tub from rocking.
Step 3. Nail the edge to the posts with 2cm galvanized nails to secure it
Be careful not to damage the tub. If the edge has no holes, nail it just above the top of the edge, so that the nail heads block the edge.
Step 4. Connect the drain and water pipe, making sure to tighten all joints properly
Step 5. Seat the drain in the tub, using the putty, and press it to secure it in place; tighten the lid
Step 6. Screw the hot and cold water taps to the water pipe housings
Seal the threads with putty as you tighten them.
Step 7. Screw on the faucet knobs
