How to Install an Acrylic Bathtub
Acrylic tubs are a great option for bathroom remodels or upgrades. They come in many different colors, shapes and sizes. These tubs are made of several thin sheets of acrylic, vacuum sealed, and then reinforced with fiberglass. This makes them lightweight and easily custom-made into a variety of shapes and sizes. It is best to remove the other accessories in the bathroom such as the vanity, sink, and toilet before starting the installation of the bathtub. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Overflow drain kit
- Caulk (tub and tile sealant)
- Shim material
- Level
- Plumbers putty
- New bathtub
- Adhesive
Instructions
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1
Remove all the old bathtub pieces if this is a remodel. If it's a new project, then measure the area where the new tub is going to be placed. Make sure to account for plumbing measurements.
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2
Check the plumbing fixtures that are going to be used for the new bathtub. If installing a new faucet system, make sure all pipes are lined up, and check for leaks before installing the tub.
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3
Match the drain system for the new tub to the existing drain pipe. The drain kit will need to fit the tub as well as the drain pipe. If the home has old or odd-sized pipes, an adapter may need to be purchased.
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4
Set the drain to the bottom of the new tub with plumber's putty, and allow to dry according to the manufacturer's directions. This will prevent leaking from the tub and ruining the surrounding floor.
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5
Place the tub in place. Put the level on the tub's edge, and see if the tub is level. If it is off, use the shim material to level the tub. This is important to prevent puddles of water from accumulating at the opposite end of the tub from the drain.
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Apply the adhesive to the tub's edges according to the manufacturer's directions, and allow to fully dry.
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7
Use the caulk to seal the edges of the bathtub against the wall and floor. Allow to fully dry according to the manufacturer's directions before using the tub.
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Tips & Warnings
Cleaning products that contain acetates can scratch or corrode the acrylic.
Turn off the water before removing the old tub or installing the new one. Install the tub before installing the toilet and sink if new it is a installation.
