How to Build a Wall Around a Whirlpool Bathtub

Installing a whirlpool bathtub in your bathroom is a luxury for any homeowner. Whirlpool bathtubs are ideal for soaking in after a long busy day. Installing a whirlpool tub isn't difficult, but after the installation, it needs to be completed by building a wall around it. The tub isn't very attractive exposed. A wall adds character and charm to the room, and you can build it any shape, size and design you want.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-by-4 boards
• Concrete nails
• Hammer
• Table saw
• 16-penny nails
• Plywood
• 8-penny nails

1. Build a wall around the whirlpool tub only as high as the tub for appearance, not structural value. The tub does not sit on the wall; it sits on the floor.

2. Layout 2-by-4 boards along the floor next to the outside walls of the tub. Cut them to size to follow the shape of the tub. Nail them down into the floor with concrete nails.

3. Cut 2-by-4 boards to sit between the top and bottom plates only as high as the tub. Nail them vertically to the bottom plate with 16-penny nails 16 inches on center.

4. Layout the 2-by-4 top plate boards on the vertical boards the same pattern as the bottom plate. Cut the boards to size. Nail the top plate to the vertical studs straight down through the top with 16-penny nails.

5. Attach plywood, cut to size, to the front of the wall using 8-penny nails. Make sure to nail the ply to the studs. You can also choose decorative panels to attach to the wall front.

6. Install ceramic tiles around the bathtub that extend onto the top plate of the tub wall. The tile makes an ideal finish and covers the wood nicely.

Tips & Warnings

• The wall only needs to be the height of the tub but doesn't necessarily have to be as high as the tub. The wall is for decoration, so you can build it in any manner you choose.
• Always wear gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes when using power tools and when working with wood.