Installing a bathtub and shower

The steps that follow will show you how to install a bathtub where the basic plumbing already exists.

Installing a bathtub can be a difficult task and we recommend that an experienced do-it-yourselfer should attempt this. If you decide to undertake the job, be sure to have someone on hand to help, because bathtubs are heavy and difficult to move around. And remember that a bathtub full of water adds considerably to the stress on the bathroom floor. Therefore, be sure your bathroom floor is strong enough to support the extra weight. If in doubt, consult with your renovation centre or a competent builder.

When you buy a new bathtub, you'll find it's covered with a thin protective film that you should only remove when installation is completed.

If you're installing a whirlpool bath or other type requiring electricity, install a GFCI-type wall outlet (ground fault circuit interrupter) that will automatically cut off power in 1/40 of a second in case a problem arises.

Don't forget to plan easy access to all plumbing so you don't need to open up walls if you have problems later.
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1. Prepare the site
2. Install the supports
3. Install the drain and overflow pipes
4. Fix the bathtub to the wall
5. Install the strainer
6. Install the overflow
7. Finish the wall and test

1. Prepare the site

Turn off the water supply. Level the bathtub using wood shims. Mark the top of the nailing flange on all the studs around the bathtub.

2. Install the supports

Move the bathtub away from the walls and nail 1 in. by 4 in. wood strapping on the three walls, just under the marks you've already made, taking care to cut the supports to accommodate pipes that could get in the way.

3. Install the drain and overflow pipes

Assemble the drain and overflow pipes in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and to fit your bathtub. Attach them to the appropriate opening on the bathtub. These fittings are sold separately at your renovation centre.

4. Fix the bathtub to the wall

Put the bathtub back into place and use galvanized nails to secure it to the wall studs through the holes in the nailing flange. If there are no holes, drive the nails into the studs, just above the flange, overlapping the nail's head over the flange.

Some bathtub manufacturers supply installation clips as well.

5. Install the strainer

Apply plumbers putty to the lower edge of the strainer and drop it in its opening. Screw it firmly into the tailpiece of the drain pipe and tighten as illustrated.

6. Install the overflow

Insert the drain pop-up mechanism in the overflow pipe opening. Install the cap and use long screws to screw it in the overflow pipe mounting.

Connect the drainpipe tailpiece to the P-trap. You may have to saw off part of the pipe in order to connect the two. If that's the case, use a hack saw or pipe cutter.

7. Finish the wall and test

When the walls are finished, install the faucets. Turn the water back on and flush the toilet to clean out any accumulated dirt that may have settled in pipes during installation.
Good luck!
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