Freestanding tubs have become increasingly popular in modern home design. The freestanding tubs stand alone and do not require walls or other fixtures to be fixed in place. They provide a sleek and sophisticated design to your bathroom.
Installing a freestanding tub on a concrete slab is not as difficult as most people think. It requires a little bit of planning beforehand, but with a good guide and the right tools, you can easily install a freestanding tub on a concrete slab. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to install a freestanding tub on a concrete slab.
Before starting the installation process, the first thing you need to do is prepare the area where you will install the tub. This involves removing any debris, cleaning the floor and making sure there are no obstructions that can hinder the installation process.
Next, you need to measure the exact space where you want to install the tub. Take note of the length, width, and height of the tub. Use a level to ensure that the floor is level; otherwise, the tub might wobble, which can be dangerous.
After preparing the area, the next step is to install the plumbing and drainage system. This is important because you want the water to flow smoothly from the tub to the drain.
Start by locating the existing drain pipe below the concrete slab. Once you locate it, cut a hole in the concrete slab using a concrete saw. The hole should be wide enough to allow the drain pipe to fit through.
Next, install the bathtub drain and overflow according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the drain and overflow are properly aligned and secured. Install the P-trap and connect it to the drainpipe. Test the drainage system to ensure it's working correctly.
The next step is to position the tub in the correct location. Using cardboard or foam, create a template on the floor to clearly identify the installation location of the tub.
With the template in place, move the tub into the location and ensure it is flush against the wall. Use shims if necessary to level the tub. Mark the location of the feet of the tub on the floor.
Once you have the location of the feet, remove the tub and drill holes on the marked places. Start with small holes and gradually increase the size to match the size of the bolts that come with the tub. Secure the bolts in the holes and use a wrench to tighten them.
With the tub secured in place, it’s time to connect it to the drain and overflow system. Slide the bathtub over the drain pipe and align the bathtub drain with the drainpipe. Tighten the locknut and overflow in place.
Ensure that you use plumber’s putty to seal the bathtub drain and the overflow. This prevents water from leaking beneath the tub.
The last step is to connect your bathtub to the water supply system. Connect the hot and cold pipes to the appropriate inlets on the bathtub. Use Teflon tape for threaded connections.
Turn on the water and test the system for any leaks. Make sure that all the fittings are tightened and free from any leaks.
Once everything is confirmed as functioning correctly, apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the tub to seal it and prevent water from getting beneath the tub.
Installing a freestanding tub on a concrete slab can take a bit of time, planning, and effort, but with the right tools and a good guide like this one, it’s something you can easily do yourself. By following the step-by-step process we’ve outlined, you can ensure that your tub is properly installed and looking great!