Knowing how to install a bathtub is a skill that most DIYers should be able to handle. Especially if it’s a straightforward replacement that doesn’t need any new pipework. You’ll need to secure the bath, reconnect the pipework and seal up the bath.
But, if you’re relocating the bath when renovating a bathroom things get a little more complicated. Pipework will need to be redirected and extended, and that’s when it's time to call in plumber to do the hard draft before you install your new bathtub.
Here we offer up some smart advice on how to make sure your bathtub installation goes smoothly.
How to install a bathtub: Can I do it myself?
Yes you can, but it's not that straightforward as Thomas Oldham, Co-Founder of UK Construction Blog shares. “A skilled DIYer can handle bathtub installation, but you need to know some plumbing and building codes.”
Reading the specific instructions for the type of bath you have bought will also be vital, as will another person to help you move what can be a heavy and cumbersome item.
Plus, if you have previous DIY experience of other plumbing jobs such as installing a bathroom sink, this will help. But, if you are not confident installing a bathtub it makes sense to hire a plumber.
Thomas has worked in the engineering and construction industry for over a decade. He has spent the past four years using his expertise to develop the UK Construction Blog.
Try these tools for installing a bathtub
A 50cm heavy duty spirit level that boasts two shock absorbing end caps to provide optimum protection against damage. Available in various sizes.
A heavy duty sealant caulking gun made from durable powder-coated metal. Has a revolving steel frame and a silencing mechanism to prevent squeaks.
This adjustable plier is manufactured from hardened carbon steel for strength, with a chrome body for durability. Jaws are hardened for a secure grip.
Steps to install a bathtub
1. Remove old tub
If you have an old bathtub in place you will need to remove it before adding the new. Thomas Oldham says, “start by removing the old tub and inspecting the subfloor for damage. Make sure to check local building codes and understand any necessary permits.”
He adds, “when preparing, focus on relocating the drain and accessing water lines. Adding a moisture barrier can help prevent issues down the line.”
2. Position the bathtub
Assuming that all pipework is in the correct place, position the bathtub to line up with the water supply and waste pipe. Then, make sure the bath is level.
The best way to do this is to use two spirit levels. Place one along the side of the bath and one of the end, then adjust the feet on the bath to ensure it's level. Once you care confident it is, tighten up the nuts on the feet.
3. Connect pipework
With the bathtub securely in place it's time to connect the pipework, and this is where reading the instructions is again essential as each bath will have its own set of guidelines.
Make sure each fitting is securely tightened to prevent leaks. A swan neck wrench can be a good tool if you have the space to use one. If not, an adjustable wrench will do the same job.
4. Secure bath to wall
Once the bathtub is in place and the pipework attached and securely fastened, if you haven't opted for a freestanding bath idea, you'll need to fix the bath to the wall.
One way of doing this is by attaching wooden battens to the wall and using L shaped brackets to fix the bath to battens. Or, if the instructions say it's suitable, you could use a strong adhesive and sealant such as this CT1 Unique Sealant Construction Builders Standard Multi All Purpose Silicone from Amazon, between the wall and the edge of the bath.
5. Seal the bath
Finally, before you take the final step of sealing the bath, make sure you fill with water to weigh it down so that the sealant doesn't move once you do have your first soak.
Once all these steps are completed, you can then add the bath panels to hide the pipework and finish the installation.
FAQs
Will renovating a bathtub increase the value of my home?
The simple answer is, yes it will. Shamila Iqbal, Director at Bathroom Mountain says, “bathrooms are one of the key areas that potential buyers look at when considering a home, and a modern, updated bathroom can make a significant difference in the appeal of your property.”
“On average, homeowners can expect to recoup around 60-70% of the cost of a bathroom remodel when selling their home," she adds.
But you don’t need to go for a full remodel of your bathroom to increase value, "even a smaller update like replacing a bath can make a noticeable difference, especially if the current bath is outdated or in poor condition,” suggests Shamia.
Shamila is a Director of Bathroom Mountain, she has expert knowledge of bathroom products and combines this with her design expertise to offer a practical insight into what works best for real homes.
How long does it take to install a bathtub?
This will depend on a number of factors says Shamila Iqbal such as teh complexity of the installation and the type of bath.
But as a general guideline Shamila adds, “for a standard bath replacement (where plumbing is already in place and no major modifications are needed), it can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours for a professional to install it. If installing a more complex type of bath like a freestanding bath, it could take a day or more.”
As you might expect if you’re relocating a bathtub to a different location in the bathroom (or another area) it will take a lot longer. Again the complexity and distance will determine how long.
“On average, this kind of project can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days,” advises Shamila. “It's also important to account for drying or curing times, particularly if you’re doing things like installing new floors or applying new grout.”
Do I need to waterproof under a bathtub?
This will depend on what type of bathtub you are installing and what type of flooring you currently have.
“In the UK, floor waterproofing under a bath is highly recommended, but whether it’s absolutely required depends on a few factors, including the type of flooring and bath installation," says Shamila Iqbal.
“However, for best practice, it’s generally advised to use a waterproof membrane to prevent water damage,” she notes.
Building regulations don’t specifically state you should have a waterproof membrane under a bath, but it does make sense.
If you have bare floorboards under the bath for example, “timber floors should always be waterproofed properly, using a membrane or suitable water-resistant backer board,” confirms Shamila. Try this HardieBacker Backerboard from B&Q.
Do you tile before or after fitting a bathtub?
“In most cases, it’s recommended to fit the bath first and then tile around it,” says Shamila Iqbal.
“It avoids damage to tiles, and as baths can be heavy and awkward to fit, you could accidentally chip or crack tiles that were already laid down,” she warns.
“Installing the bath first lets you ensure a solid waterproof seal between the bath and the wall or floor," she adds. "Plus fitting the bath first allows you to tile right up to the edge of the tub, creating a clean, seamless finish.”
If you already have tiles you can tile over tiles after the bath has been fitted. But be warned you can only do this once.
If you’re installing a new bathtub it’s the ideal time to think about other bathroom renovations. Check out our downstairs bathroom ideas, bathroom floor tile ideas and modern bathroom ideas for more inspiration.
EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.
