The Basics Of Installing A Bathtub

You have finally made up your mind to give your bathroom a much-needed face-lift by installing a new bathtub. Sometimes the need for a new bathtub is out of necessity if it is cracked and old or even leaking which will cause damage to your home. No matter the reason, it is vital that you know the steps to take to properly install a bathtub.
So, you are ready to spruce up, refresh, or repair your bathroom, which might mean installing a bathtub. Why should you replace the bathtub? Well, for many people, it is a matter of necessity. Perhaps the bathtub is old and cracked or maybe it is leaking and causing damage to the bathroom. For others on the other hand, it is simply a matter of wanting something new, a better design, or you are just tired of looking at the same bathtub day after day. Whatever your reasons for a new bathtub, it is important that you understand how to install it properly.

The first thing you need to do before you can install your new tub is to make sure you have picked up everything you need. For example, you want to make sure you have measured the tub area, and then choose a bathtub that is just the right size. Buying a tub that is too wide or long will be cause for massive frustration and possible financial issues as well. Make sure you have all the pipes, fittings, screws, nails, and other necessities. Installing a bathtub correctly without all the proper materials is downright impossible. Therefore, the first step in bathtub installation is to ensure you have everything you need to get the job done right. If in doubt, ask for help at your local hardware store.

The most common mistake made by many homeowners while trying to replace the bathtub is the failure to turn off the water that feeds the bathroom, before disconnecting the existing pipes. Failure to do so will lead to a flooding of the area that can damage not only the floor but also the walls, leading to repairs which are even more expensive. It only makes sense that for you to avoid this type of water damage that you make sure to turn the water off before you begin.

Before installing the new bathtub to its chosen area it is important to make sure that you attach and tighten all the new pipes properly, as well as secure the bathtub supports. Once this is done, you will place the connections for the drain, while making sure that the trap is lower than the drain to enable the tub to drain properly. Then you will be ready to connect the hot and cold water lines to your new bathtub. Once these are secured with the nipple and caps you will then turn the water back on. You should check for any leaks of all drains and pipes and correct any possible problem before finishing with your installation of the tub.

After checking and being positive there are no leaks, finish up with a tub surround. In some cases, these come with a new bathtub, can be purchase separately, or created yourself using tiles or drywall that is water resistant. Installing a bathtub can be an easy project if you know what precautions to take first.

Asking for advice at your local hardware store can also save you some aggravation, and may prevent you from having to run back to the store mid-installation for more parts. Make sure you are organized before you start the installation, with required items close at hand, including easy to understand instructions.

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By Christopher Smith
Published: 7/8/2007
 
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