Our EASY Step-By-Step Guide on How To Install a Freestanding Tub
These statistics confirm what you probably already know if you’re reading this page, and that is that freestanding tubs are growing in popularity.
Freestanding tubs are an excellent way to add value, add beauty, and increase relaxation in the room you use every day.
If you have questions on installing your own, you’re not alone.
Here we’ll show you what tools you’ll need, and our bath installation experts will walk you through, step-by-step, so you can successfully install your tub.
What You’ll Need
- Your new freestanding tub
- Pencil
- Blanket
- Level
- Caulk
- Plumber’s putty
- Clear silicone
Before You Start
- Using your level – make sure your floor is even
- Install your tub’s waste-overflow fitting per manufacturer’s instructions
- Check if your new freestanding tub can install a handgrip – for added safety
- Check how to carry your freestanding tub – some models require you to carry them upside down only, and to not lift by its side panels
- Clean your tub thoroughly
- Clean your floor thoroughly
Pro Tip: If you’ve remodeled in the past, making sure your floor is level is key.
Installing a Freestanding Tub in 8 EASY Steps (Learn How In The Time It Takes To Tie Your Shoe)
- Place your new freestanding tub exactly where you want it – then mark its position with your pencil
- Remove the corrugated extender that comes with your tub
- If you don’t … you won’t be able to complete your installation
- Make sure your waste pipe/p trap connection can connect to your drain outlet (located on the bottom of your tub)
- Following your manufacturer’s instructions either put your tub on its side (on your towel to protect your floor & tub) OR using two 4×4 wooden beams raise your tub directly above your installation spot
- Connect your water outlet pipe using your plumber’s putty, and silicone (per manufacturer’s instructions – more on this later)
- Now your new freestanding tub is prepped for install
- Check if your tub has adjustable feet – screw until secured on your floor
- Secure your tub to your floor using your caulk – either apply underneath it’s 4 adjustable feet, OR a bead around the bottom of your tub
- Once caulked, carefully put your tub exactly where you want it (remove support boards if used)
- Remove any remaining packaging – and you’re done!
Plumbing / Drain Connection
- Align your drain and your expansion joint
- Put a dot of silicone between your drain and expansion joint
- Connect your drain to your expansion joint, then tighten its collar
- Put plumber’s putty on your washer, then slide it over the bottom of your expansion joint
- Tighten your washer and nut, making sure to form a watertight seal
- Now that your drain is connected successfully … you’ll need to test your tub before use
- To test, wait 24 hours, then carefully turn on your water and check if there are any leaks
How To Install a Freestanding Tub Faucet
To install your freestanding tub filler, check out this short video from Pfister, a leading manufacturer in the bathroom industry.
[Case Study #1]
To get a better understanding of what it’s like to install your very own freestanding bathtub, it’s best to talk with someone who’s been there before.
For that reason, we’ve included a case study from one of our satisfied customers named Jim Miller (the last name changed per request for privacy), who was gracious enough to share his positive experience regarding his new freestanding tub.
Here are his words:
“After countless months of going back and forth, trying to decide what tub I should get for my master bathroom remodel, I decided to go with a freestanding unit after researching them on the internet.
I’ve lived in my current house for over 15 years now, so my bathtub was nothing to get excited about. In fact, it grew over the years to be quite an eye sore, so I’ve been due for a new tub.
After ordering my new freestanding tub, with free shipping even, it arrived on time as promised in perfect condition.
I order most things online these days (who doesn’t?), but ordering a tub was something new, and to my suprise, it was easy peasy. The future is now!
Anyways, once I got the tub, installation was made easy with the flexible drain hose included in the pack. One question came up regarding my tub’s washer and drain configuration, but support answered it quickly, and kindly.
After installing my new tub, I can say that the price and quality are excellent.
I’d recommend a freestanding-style tub for any master bathroom remodel, if you’re looking for something visually pleasing, light, durable, and an amazing value.” – Jim Miller
[Case Study #2]
For good measure, and your convenience here’s another bonus case study from another one of our satisfied customers, this time named Lora Cruz (the last name changed for privacy), who’s also been able to successfully install her own freestanding bathtub.
Here’s what she had to say:
“Awesome product.
The packaging was done well, no scratches or paint defects.
Looks really clean and modern.
It’s dimensions were accurate and as advertised. Pain-free transaction!
Delivery was quicker than I thought, and the “expert installation” service was great. They had my tub ready to go in less than 3 hours.
Would recommend! – Lora Cruz
Summing It Up
There you have it.
In the time it takes to brew a cup of coffee, you’ve found out exactly how to install a freestanding tub, and even it’s tub filler.
In a study by Houzz, referenced by Forbes analyzing bathroom trends, nearly 2 in 5 homeowners opted to upgrade their bathtub during a master bathroom renovation, so that means by completing this page you’ve just gained an incredibly valuable, in-demand skill that you can apply today. (2)
In the past, installing your very own freestanding tub was an intimidating task, that required years of experience, and most times, the help of professionals.
These days, with the help of the internet and it’s coalition of industry experts, the process can be broken down into digestible steps and how-to videos so everyone can understand.
Now that you possess the knowledge to successfully install your own freestanding bathtub, all that’s left is to choose a model that’s best for you. Need help? Check out our guide here.
Resources
- https://st.hzcdn.com/static/econ/HouzzBathroomStudy2017.pdf
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/houzz/2017/10/31/homeowners-on-updating-or-ditching-the-bathtub-and-what-theyre-replacing-it-with/
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