Many agree that a bathtub is a bathroom necessity. After all, the bathtub industry and market size continue to proliferate.

Bathtubs, particularly freestanding ones, can transform an ordinary room into a tranquil, spa-like sanctuary. However, the installation procedure can be scary, particularly if you need to brush up on plumbing and home improvement tasks.

To assist you in installing freestanding bathtubs in the comfort of your own home, we have created this in-depth guide. Everything from selecting the appropriate equipment and supplies to connecting the pipes is covered in this article.

We'll also offer advice on choosing the best freestanding bathtub, measuring the available space, and setting up your bathroom for installation. You'll discover how to anchor the bathtub, level it, and connect the overflow and drain.

Setting Up a Freestanding Bathtub in the Convenience of Your Own Home

Freestanding bathtubs are bathtubs that stand alone, unattached to any walls or other fittings. Freestanding bathtubs, as opposed to regular bathtubs, are intended to be the center point of the bathroom.

Installing a standalone bathtub involves meticulous planning, accurate dimensions, and knowledge of plumbing and electrical connections. The guide to install a freestanding tub provides in-depth information and detailed instructions to help ensure a successful outcome.

It provides critical information about the bathtub type you require, the installation site you like, and the supplies required to complete the project. This knowledge is critical for directing your decisions and avoiding mistakes that threaten the safety and efficiency of the bathtub.

This material is useful for folks who are just starting out with home renovation initiatives. It can reduce frustration and boost chances of achievement.

1. Bathtub Selection

Bathtub selection is an integral part of installing a freestanding bathtub. The following factors should be considered when selecting a bathtub:

• Size

One significant factor to examine is the size of your bathtub. Size is vital because your bathroom may not require a larger bathtub if a smaller bathtub will suffice. A bigger tub is generally advised if your bathroom can sustain it and you have the place for it. 

If you have the adequate space, freestanding is an excellent choice. If your area is more restricted, alcove, drop-in, and soaking may be better options. Although a wider bathtub is more aesthetically attractive, it will also demand a higher water bill because it takes more time to fill entirely than a smaller size.

• Material

Bathtubs are available in a number of styles. Fiberglass, acrylic, and ceramic are examples of low-cost materials. These are porous substances that soak up, making cleaning more difficult and time-consuming. Materials such as stone resin, cast iron, and copper, on the other hand, are significantly stronger and non-porous. 

The appearance, texture, heaviness, and cost of these pricey plumbing fittings are all influenced by the bathtub material. Additionally, since tubs are difficult to repair, it is wise to do your research before making a purchase to ensure that you will be satisfied with it for many years to come.

• Features

Some freestanding bathtubs have extra features, including heated surfaces, built-in overflow systems, and jets. While relaxing in the tub, jets can give you a massage, and built-in overflow devices stop water from overflowing the sides.

The water is kept warm for longer on heated surfaces, which makes soaking in the tub more enjoyable. Choose a bathtub that suits your needs by thinking about the aspects that are most essential to you.

• Drain Location

With a drain system at the tub's base connected to an overflow that may or may not have a control knob, all bathtubs drain essentially the very same fashion. For the freestanding tub the drain location is mainly located at the bottom of the tub.

Water exits the bathtub through the drain gear, a tailpiece, and into the trap when the plunger or stopper is lifted. Every plumbing fixture in a home must have a trap, which keeps water in it and serves as a seal to keep sewer gases out of the house.

2. Gather Tools and Materials

Before starting the installation process, it is vital to prepare appropriately. The first step in preparation is to gather the necessary tools and materials. The specific tools and materials you'll need will depend on the type of bathtub you are installing.

Generally, you will need a level, an adjustable wrench, plumbing tools, and silicone caulk. You may also need materials such as plumbing parts, drain stoppers, and overflow cover plates.

3. Mark the Drain Placement

The location of the drain and the overflow should then be marked on the floor. The location of the drain is essential for the bathtub to operate correctly. Therefore, it's crucial to measure and keep it precise.

You can use this to decide where the bathtub should be placed in your bathroom. Repeat the method for the overflow placement after designating the drain location. After finishing these preparations, you are prepared to proceed to the following installation stage.

4. Leveling the Bathtub

Leveling the bathtub is one of the most important phases in constructing a freestanding bathtub. The bathtub is sturdy and safe, and the water drains correctly, thanks to proper leveling. A bathtub that isn't level might leak and cause water damage and be dangerous to use:

• To level the bathtub, follow these instructions using a level and a shim:

• Make sure the bathtub is centered as you place it in the designated location.

• Check the level of the bathtub using the level from the front, back, and side. This will guarantee appropriate water drainage and guard against any problems with leakage or damage.

• Recheck the level of the bathtub and make adjustments as necessary. Repeat this process until the bathtub is level in all directions.

5. Plumbing Connection

Connecting the plumbing comes next in the installation process after leveling the bathtub. The water supply and drain lines must be connected to the bathtub to complete the plumbing installation for a freestanding bathtub. This phase needs a fundamental knowledge of plumbing and accessibility to the necessary equipment and supplies, such as these steps.

• Turn off the water supply to the restroom.

• Connect the bathtub's hot- and cold-water supply lines.

• Connect the bathtub's overflow pipe to the drain line.

• Restart the water supply and check for leaks.

It's important to note that the plumbing connections for freestanding bathtubs may differ from those for traditional bathtubs. When making connections, consult the manufacturer's instructions and local plumbing codes.

6. Anchoring the Bathtub

The final element of the installation process is to link the plumbing. Attaching the bathtub ensures that it does not shift or slide while in use. You need to follow the following steps to make sure it is fixed:

• Examine the bathtub level to confirm it has not altered during the plumbing operation

• Apply silicone caulk to the bottom of the bathtub where it touches the floor. This decreases the chance of water entering the bathtub from beneath.

• To maintain the bathtub attached to the ground, use metal brackets or brackets made of another sturdy material around its edges.

It is also critical to test the bathtub's stability following installation. Make any required changes to the brackets or caulk to guarantee the bathtub is stable if it feels unsteady or unstable.

7. Finishing Touches

The final touches are what give your freestanding bathtub its ultimate appearance and feeling after installation. These final steps are frequently the particulars that provide the bathtub an opulent and soothing spa-like atmosphere.

• Attach the overflowing covering: Overflow pipe permits water to drain from the bathtub if it reaches too high. The overflow cover is made to fit over this pipe. The overflow cover should be installed to offer the bathtub a finished appearance and to cover the overflow pipe.

• Put the drain stopper in place: The drain stopper is intended to block the drain, which is where the bathtub's water exits. By inserting the drain stopper, you can manage the bathtub's level of water.

• Installing a faucet in the bathtub is not required, but it can make it easier to fill the tub with water. A bathtub faucet should match your bathtub and bathroom's design.

• After completion, the bathtub should be properly cleaned along with the surrounding region. This will give the bathtub a clean, polished appearance and aid in clearing away any leftover dirt or contamination from the setup process.

• When entering and exiting the bathtub, your feet can benefit from a soft, comfortable surface provided by bath mats or rugs. Pick rugs or bath mats that go well with the design of your tub or bathroom.

Conclusion

If you have the correct information and equipment, constructing a freestanding bathtub at home may be a rewarding and successful endeavor. This manual covers every installation step, from selecting the ideal bathtub to mounting it and attaching the plumbing.

You should remain assured of finishing the job and turning your bathroom into a tranquil and spa-like place with the help of clear directions and helpful advice. During the installation procedure, safety must always come first. Ensure you use the appropriate gloves, goggles, and safety equipment, and take the advised safety measures.

The bathtub must also be properly maintained if you want it to last for many years. It will continue to look its best with routine cleaning and care as directed by the manufacturer.

Guest Contributor: Daniel Martin