Bathtub Installation

When installing a tub to replace an existing unit, the old bath tub needs to be disconnected and removed. Using as much assistance as is necessary, place the new bath tub into place and use shims to level it. After the tub is leveled and is adequately supported, the next focus is to connect the necessary plumbing.

The steps needed to connect the plumbing will depend on what is already present from the previous tub. Although the process of bathtub installation can be complicated, once you learn how to install a bath tub, you can save a great deal of money by completing the task yourself. If the old tub is readily accessible, the project can move speedily; if you have to open a wall to remove the old tub and position the new bathtub, the task is much harder. This article will help you install a new bathtub in your bathroom if you have already bought a new tub and don't need to change the arrangement of your previous water supply pipes.

New Bathtub, Hammer, Pipe Wrenches, Prybar, Safety Glasses, Level, Pliers, Adjustable Wrench, Putty Knife, Screwdriver, Cold Chisel, Tape Measure, Pipe Caps

Firstly, the supporting frame supplied with the bath should be fitted (if required) according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Next, fit the taps or mixer to the bathtub. When fitting the tap block, it is important to make sure that if the tap comes with a plastic washer, it is fitted between the bath and the taps. On a plastic bath, it is also sensible to fit a supporting plate under the taps unit to prevent strain on the bathtub.

Fit the flexible tap connectors to the bottom of the two taps using 2 nuts and olives (sometimes supplied with the tub).

Fit the plug-hole outlet by smearing mastic filler round the sink outlet hole, and then pass the outlet through the hole in the bath. Next, fit the end of the flexible overflow pipe to the overflow outlet. Use a basin wrench (crowsfoot spanner) or a tap tool to undo the nut that connects the supply pipes to the taps. Once the supply pipes have been removed, use the same tool to loosen the nut that holds the taps onto the bath/basin. Before moving on to fit the new taps, compare the pipe connections on the old taps to the new taps. If the old taps are longer than the new taps, then a shank adapter is required for the new taps to fit.

To install taps, fit the bottom of the furthest flexible tap connector to the appropriate supply pipe by making a compression join; then do the same for the other tap.

Fill the bathtub and also check the overflow outlet and the normal outlet for leaks.

If you need to fit a monobloc, then you will require reducing couplers, which connects the 10mm pipe of the monobloc to the standard 15mm supply pipe.

Next, position the tap in the mounting hole in the bath/basin ensuring that the washers are in place between the tap and the sink. Once the tap is securely in place, the supply pipes can be connected to the tails of the taps. The taps can either be connected by using corrugated copper piping or with normal tap connectors. The supply pipes can later be connected to the other end. Remember to always fill the bathtub with water before sealing, to allow for the movement experienced when the tub is in use.