What Is The Process For Installing A Walk-in Bathtub?

But it’s also important to know that installing this bathtub requires more than just basic DIY skills. In fact, you will need professional help with the electrical and plumbing work involved.

In this guide, we'll take you through all the steps necessary for successful installation so that you can feel confident before taking on the project.

From understanding what tools are needed and how much time is required right through to seeking assistance from professionals where appropriate - we will provide everything you need to know about the installation process. So let's get started!

Installing A Walk-in Bath Tub: The Basics

For the best results, you should enlist an AUTHORIZED electrician and plumber to install your new walk-in bath tub. Yet there are still a few key steps that you can do to guarantee it is correctly installed. Here's what you need to know:

Preparation and Measurements

Investing in a walk-in bath tub is a great approach to bring both FUNCTIONALITY and convenience into your bathroom. Before purchasing, take adequate measurements and put all necessary preparations in place.

To fit your new walk-in tub, discover an appropriate spot in the bathroom and then take note of its dimensions - width, length and height [1].

When considering installing a new bathroom, it's important to make sure that there is adequate space for everything.

This will not only give you the ROOM required for installation but also help you discover if any other renovations need to be done such as replacing flooring or taking down walls. If your plan includes having a walk-in shower too, bear in mind this may call for additional area.

Pro Tip: Measuring exact measurements is essential before you install the walk-in bath tub.

Tools And Materials Needed For Installation

Once you have decided on a SUITABLE place to install your walk-in tub, you can begin gathering the tools and materials that are needed for the job. This includes:

• Screwdrivers
• Wrenches
• Plumbing supplies
• Hook and loop tape
• A level

You may also need electrical supplies and pipe insulation depending on your installation requirements.

Professionals Assistance

Now that you have all the necessary tools and materials, it is important to consider which tasks require professional help. For example, a PLUMBER [2] or electrician should be consulted if there is any electrical wiring or plumbing work required.

Pro Tip: If unsure, you can get professional help to understand what work would need to be done before installation.

Steps To Install A Walk-in Tub DIY

Installing walk-in baths doesn't have to be complicated, and with the right steps, it can be done DIY style. Here are the steps to follow for installing a walk-in tub:

1. Identify a Suitable Space: Measure your bathroom floor and find out if any other renovation work needs to be done, such as replacing flooring or tearing down walls.
2. Measure the Tub: Measure the width, length and height of the new tub so that you know if there is enough room for installation compared to your existing tub.
3. Check Plumbing System: Check whether or not your home's plumbing system can support a walk-in tub, and hire a plumber, if necessary, to connect new pipes and drains for the bathtub.
4. Read Instructions: Read all instructions with the walk-in tub so you know of any additional steps required for installation and usage.
5. Prepare Tub Site: Remove any old fixtures in your bathroom and prepare the area where you will install your walk-in tub before bringing it into the house.
6. Install Frame/Flange: Follow instructions to install frame/flange correctly, ensuring that they are level and aligned correctly, then attach them to wall studs as per manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Connect Plumbing/Drains: If necessary, connect all plumbing lines and ensure that all fittings are tight, secure and water-tight before connecting the drainpipe outlet line from the frame/flange assembly using the appropriate tape sealant if needed by the manufacturer's instruction manual.
8. Secure Tub in Place: Carefully place the tub into the prepared hole in the floor at its designated location, making sure to check the levelness of the base per the manufacturer's guidance, then secure it in place with appropriate screws provided by manufacturer or installer as applicable according to the specific model type chosen for the installation job.

Cost Of Installation For A Walk-in Tub VS. Traditional Bathtub

Having a walk-in tub installed in your home can be COSTLY, but the savings compared to a traditional bathtub may be worth it. In the UK, the installation cost for a walk-in tub is typically more than twice what you'd expect to pay for a traditional bathtub.

On average, installing a traditional bathtub runs about £500-£1,500, depending on COMPLEXITY and size. On the other hand, installing a walk-in tub can range from around £2,000 - £5,000. Prices may also vary depending on the material used, labour costs and location.

The bulk of the added cost comes from the need to install additional plumbing and support systems that are necessary for keeping the tub SAFE and secure. As such, it is important to carefully assess your budget when considering whether or not to invest in a walk-in tub.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Walk-in Bath Tub Be Installed In A Small Bathroom?

While a walk-in tub can fit any bathroom size, it is critical to ensure enough space for the unit and accompanying fixtures.

Can I Use Bath Salts or Bubble Baths In A Walk-in Tub?

With a walk-in tub, you can enjoy the indulgence of utilizing bath salts and bubble baths. But it's essential to ensure that your product is suitable for the material of your tub; otherwise, it could cause permanent staining or discolouration.

How Long Does It Typically Take To Fill And Drain A Walk-in Tub?

Filling a walk-in tub and draining it can typically require 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of your container and your home's water pressure. The exact timing may fluctuate slightly [3].

Can I Add A Walk-in Bathtub To My Existing Bathroom, Or Does It Require A Remodel?

For some instances, installing a walk-in tub in an existing bathroom may not need any remodeling. However, the size of the room and other elements within it might require changes or updates such as replacing flooring or removing walls.

It's best to seek advice from a professional to determine what changes are required.

Conclusion

Installing a walk-in tub in your home is an investment that will pay off practically and luxuriously. The installation cost for the tub may be more than double what you would spend on a traditional bathtub, but it will undoubtedly prove to be worth every penny.

To have a successful walk-in tub installation, it is essential to adhere strictly to the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, one must ensure that the frame/flange and plumbing/drains are fitted in properly for optimal performance.

Moreover, it is vital to be aware of any additional renovations that could possibly need to be done for your walk-in tub to be integrated seamlessly into your existing bathroom.

With the right installation and upkeep, your new walk-in tub will provide you with a secure yet indulgent bathing experience for years on end.

Sources -

1. Chard A. How to measure for a bath. VictoriaPlum.com. Published June 12, 2019. Accessed January 24, 2023. https://victoriaplum.com/blog/posts/how-to-measure-for-a-bath
2. My Plumber Admin. 7 Trusty Tips on How to Find a Good Plumber | My Plumber. My Plumber. Published online November 3, 2015. doi:https://my-plumber.co.uk/blog/how-to-find-a-good-plumber/
3. atlantahomemods. How Long Does it Take for Walk-In Tubs to Fill and Drain? WALK IN TUBS ATLANTA (770) 880-3405. Published October 19, 2014. Accessed January 24, 2023. https://walkintubsatlantaga.com/2014/10/19/how-long-does-it-take-for-walk-in-tubs-to-fill-and-drain/

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