Q&A for How to Install a Bathtub

Yes, I do, cement-board actually. Never use ANY drywall in any bath. Many manufacturers say skip it and attach or seat directly to the framing. This isn't remotely ideal for humidity containment nor for insulation or sound dampening. You never want framing directly exposed to any future potential water leakage, water always wins.

Shower drains should be 2" and tub drains are 1-1/2" so you are good there, but the pipe will have to be moved to be in the correct position for the new tub.

No. It can be attached directly to the studs. Where the flange is, all around the tub, should be set into the studs the thickness of the flange so the wall board around it will be flat and against the studs everywhere. Drill the flange for the screws so you do not crack the fiberglass. Doing that will keep the wall along the bath surround flat everywhere. Be sure that those walls are insulated. Also be sure the bottom of the tub is supported with concrete that is mixed with peanut foam. Insulate the rest of the bottom of the tub. Insulation will keep the bath water warmer longer.

You cut it in half or more. It's garbage and should be treated as such. It may have been installed before any other fixtures or before there was even a hallway railing or any walls and doors.

Zero, if you mean how close should the tub be to the wall. Otherwise, a minimum of 1 inch if you're talking about a short or half wall running just beyond the tub and enclosing the tub area. If you're tiling and have room to extend the wall into the room, then you may want the tile width or half-width dictate the spacing so that tiling is much easier and better looking.

Whatever and wherever your instructions say to. Manufacturers that use those things have very specific and finite spots where they must go, using only the exactly specified screws.

You'll just have to win the wrestling match. They don't install themselves and no one said it was always easy. You may even have to walk it in literally a millimeter at a time on either end. You can also remove wallboard, doors, door jambs, cabinetry, and toilets.

Of course, the cost can vary depending on the type of bathtub and any modifications to the bathroom or plumbing that are needed, but generally, an installation can cost from between $1,000-$6,000. If the tub fits easily into the space and the plumbing is already set up, you can install it yourself. Install a ledger board on the wall, put the tub in place, and make sure it's level. Secure the flanges to the wall studs and fit the tub surround into the space. Caulk the surround and any cracks so the area is sealed. Then, you can connect the water line.

Installing a new bathtub is a challenging task that needs to be done correctly so there won't be water damage. You'll need to be prepared to repair any tiles that are damaged in the process as well. Bathtubs are also generally pretty heavy, which means removing the old one and installing the new one can be an arduous task. If you're unsure of your ability to correctly install a bathtub, your best bet is to hire a qualified plumber or contractor.

It depends on your preference, but according to Hygiene Expert, a shower is a better way to get clean if you're really dirty. But, if you're just getting clean from a normal day, a bathtub will get you just as clean. A shower usually uses less water than a bathtub as well, making it more environmentally-friendly. As far as installation, the price of purchasing and installing a shower or a tub is about the same.