How to Build a Bathtub With Door

Bathtub With A Door

A bathtub with a door is excellent for seniors or anyone with a disability who's have trouble climbing in and out of the bath on a daily basis. There are two options available: One is to modify an existing bathtub, which can get tricky, and the other is to simply replace it with a walk in custom tub.

Things You'll Need

• Insert kit
• Cutting tool to install an insert
• Custom tub with door
• Carpenter's tools
• Plumber's tools

Instructions

Building A Bathtub With A Door Using Insert

1. Cut out the appropriate section of the tub for insert installation, and fit the molded cover on as per kit directions. Install the door and sealing mechanism. Professional installation is recommended using this method.

2. Fill and drain the tub once to be sure there are no leaks in the door assembly, and test jets, if included.

Modifying An Exsisting Bathtub With A Door

1. Rip out your existing tub, and any wall tile to the height of the new tub. If you are going to snug the tub to the wall or corner, you will finish the wall after; for a freestanding tub, now is the time to refinish and surface.

2. Prepare the floor. You will need to check and see if the load bearing capabilities are there, and reroute any plumbing to accommodate the new tub. (Some custom tubs have a smaller footprint to allow water to reach up to the chest when seated on a bench; this means more weight distributed over a smaller space.)

3. Check your clearances, and prepare the space for any extra options such as electronics or heating elements for jets or other accessories.

4. Set the tub and connect the plumbing. Pour a large bucket of water into the tub to check for leaks.

5. Add the hardware, and if required, the outer housing for the tub. Make sure your water heater is up to providing sufficient hot water to fill the tub.

6. Fill and drain the tub once to be sure there are no leaks in the door assembly, and test jets, if included.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider paying for a kit to be installed in your existing tub to add a door.

• Getting the old tub out may require a little demolition, so be prepared. Also, try to recycle the old bathtub if possible to save landfill space.