How to Build a Frame for a Jacuzzi Tub

A jacuzzi surround makes getting in and out of the tub easier.

Building a frame to support your new jacuzzi tub ensures that the jacuzzi is securely supported. The frame also provides a area around the tub as a deck, making getting in and out of the tub safer and easier. A frame is used to support plywood that provides a base that wraps around the tub for the tile or stone veneer to attach. The frame must be sturdy to support the tub and a person's weight. Additionally, the frame should be built with the tile or stone design in mind that will be used for the tub, this will help reduce the number of cuts required and improve the appearance of the new jacuzzi tub and deck.

Things You'll Need

• Jacuzzi tub template
• Chalk line
• 2-inch-by-4-inch lumber
• 2-inch-by-4-inch pressure treated lumber
• Miter saw
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• No. 8 common nails
• Framing hammer

Instructions

1. Decide on the placement of the new jacuzzi tub. Use the tub template provided by the manufacturer to locate the tub. Adjust the template on the floor to provide room for the tub deck that you want to surround the tub when installed. This will determine where the frame needs to be located.

2. Snap a chalk line on the floor to locate the exterior location of the tub deck. A chalk line is a container that holds a string and a colored chalk. When the string is pulled out a layer of chalk is deposited on the string, so when the line is pulled tight and snapped it leaves a chalk line on the work surface.

3. Cut 2-inch-by-4-inch lumber for studs that are the height of the bottom of the jacuzzi tub lip minus 1 inch. This will raise the tub 2 3/4 inches off of the floor when installed. This provides room for a mortar bed that will support the weight of the tub. The dimension will be provided by the manufacturer. You can also measure from the floor to the bottom lip of the tub using a tape measure. You will need enough studs to place one every 16 inches around the perimeter of the tub, plus a additional one for each corner. Use a miter saw for this step.

4. Cut 2-by-4 pressure treated lumber to length so that it makes a continuous bottom plate around the perimeter of the tub frame. The studs will sit along the chalk line that was snapped in step 3. Cut plain 2-by-4 lumber to the same length as the bottom plates. They will make up the top plates.

5. Mark the top and bottom plate every 16 inches on center using a tape measure and a pencil. Attach the studs that were cut in Step 4 to the top and bottom plate at the marks using No. 8 common nails. Use two nails for each plate. A framing hammer is best for this step. Place an additional stud at one end of each frame wall. This allows you to nail each section of frame together using the same nails.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses when working with power tools.

References

• NorthAmerican Tile: How to Build a Ceramic Tile Jacuzzi and Deck
• Monster Guide: How to Install a Jacuzzi Tub