When installing a drop in tub, there are several components that need to go around it. These can include tile, mortar, a waterproof membrane, and a tub surround. Typically, installing tile around the tub is the most common and aesthetically pleasing option.
This can include ceramic, stone, or porcelain tile, and you must use a mortar to secure them to the wall and shower base. In order to prevent water seepage and foundational damage, many people also use a waterproofing membrane behind this layer of tile.
A tub surround is a one-piece panel of solid material that attaches to the wall and surrounds the tub, which can prevent water damage in areas where a mortar isn’t necessary or possible. Tub surrounds are also easy to clean, and can be made of acrylic, fiberglass, or PVC.
How do you enclose a drop in tub?
Enclosing a drop in tub can be a tricky and challenging process. You will need to make sure there is enough space available to allow for doors or a curtain to provide access to the bathtub, as well as adequate safety measures in place to prevent slipping and falling.
To start, measure the length and width of the tub, as well as its depth. Once you know the measurements, you can begin designing the enclosure. You’ll need to take into account the size and shape of the tub as well as the overall space available.
Most enclosures are built using walls to make a surrounding barrier, with access holes cut into them for the doors or curtains.
When installing the walls, you have several options. You can install them inside a framing of stud walls, or you can mount them directly to the existing walls that line the bathroom. For a more professional look, consider using ceramic tiles, metal panels, or glass as material for the walls.
Once the walls are in place, you can then install the doors or curtains. Many times metal frames are used for holding the curtain or door panels in place, with metal tracks to easily open and close them.
You will also need to include a drain to ensure that any excess water is safely removed. And finally, make sure any electrical or plumbing systems are up to code.
While enclosing a drop in tub can be a challenge, if done properly, it can add value to your home and provide a luxurious look and feel to any bathroom.
What can I use for a drop in tub surround?
When it comes to drop in tub surrounds, there are a number of different materials you can use. Of course, the type of material you use for your tub surround will depend on your individual tastes. Some popular materials for drop in tub surrounds include acrylic, porcelain-enameled steel and fiberglass.
If you’re looking for something chic and modern, acrylic is a great option as it is durable, easy to clean and can be made to look like marble or granite. Porcelain-enameled steel is also a great option, as it is heat resistant and non-porous, meaning it won’t discolor over time or require regular sealing.
Fiberglass tub surrounds are also popular due to their affordability, easy installation and wide range of colors and designs. Take the time to explore all your options, so you can decide which material will look and work best for your space.
What is the stuff that goes around the bathtub?
The stuff that usually goes around a bathtub is referred to as bathtub trim or tub surround. It typically consists of plastic, metal, or tile material, and it’s designed to give the bathtub a finished look.
The trim generally goes up 3–4 inches around the bathtub and makes the bathtub’s edges less sharp. It can also be used to hide any gaps between the bathtub and the wall. The trim is available in a variety of colors that have been designed to match different colors and types of rest of the bathroom.
It’s important to choose a trim material that can withstand the moisture and humidity of a bathroom, as some materials can become damaged over time if exposed to too much moisture. An added benefit of using trim around a bathtub is that it helps protect the walls around the bathtub from water damage.
Does a drop in tub sit on the floor?
Yes, a drop in tub typically sits on the floor, but it can also be elevated in a platform or alcove, with walls surrounding the sides. A drop in tub is usually deeper than a standard bathtub, allowing you to submerge yourself in the water more.
Drop in tubs are considered a more luxurious option for bathrooms since they’re often made of higher quality materials, like cast iron, enameled steel, and acrylic, and offer more comfort than other tubs such as soaking tubs or stand-alone tubs.
Drop in tubs are also more accessible than other tub types, as they sit on the floor and may not require any climbing to get in and out. The main downside to a drop in tub is that it can be more difficult to clean, as the inside tends to be shrouded by the walls of the entertainment.
Does a tub surround go over drywall?
Yes, a tub surround can go over drywall. It is important to ensure that your drywall is in good condition for the tub surround installation, as any panels installed over a damaged section could be compromised.
It is also useful to ensure that the drywall is securely fixed, either with nails or screws, so that it will offer the best possible support for your tub surround. Additionally, it is recommended to use a waterproof membrane or wall liner prior to installing the tub surround to help protect the drywall and keep it dry.
After this, you can install the tub surround using adhesive, or you can use screws or nails to hold it in place. An important part of this process is to ensure a tight fit around the edges of your surround to ensure it will be water-tight.
With a little care and attention to detail, you can get a great look and long-lasting reliability by installing your tub surround over drywall.
How do you cover gap between floor and tub?
Covering the gap between the floor and the tub is a simple task that can be completed with a few supplies. If the gap is considerable, you may want to first use caulk to fill out any large crevices. Allow the caulk to dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.
Once the caulk is dry, the next step is to place a strip of tub moulding along the floor of the tub. The moulding should encase the entire circumference of the tub, with the flat-side of the moulding placed against the floor.
Secure the moulding to the tub and floor surface by hammering in nails. Before proceeding any further, you should also insert a bead of caulk into the area where the moulding meets the floor, for added stability and durability.
Finally, cover the moulding with tile grout to match the flooring material. Allow the grout to dry for 24 hours and you’re done!.
What is bathtub edge called?
The edge of a bathtub is typically called the bathtub rim. This part of the bathtub is the lip that sticks out above where the water is held. It is designed to keep the water from spilling over the side, while still making it easy to step in and out of the bathtub.
Depending on the style of bathtub, the rim of the tub can have a more angular or curved shape. Some tubs may have square or decorative tiles on the rim to help it stand out. The rims of the bathtubs are also typically reinforced with a material like ceramic or stone which adds to their durability.
How do you frame around a bathtub?
Framing around a bathtub is a project that requires careful measurements and precision to ensure a safe and attractive installation. The most important part of the framing process is to make sure that everything is level and structurally sound, and there should be no gaps for water or moisture to penetrate through.
Begin by measuring the space in which the bathtub will be installed. Use a level and a square, or try framing the space on the floor using two-by-fours in the same dimensions as the tub. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall, and cut the exact size pieces of studs to fit the measurements of the tub.
Secure the framing in place with appropriate nails and screws.
In order to ensure a level installation, start by attaching the bottom frame level to the floor. Don’t forget to install shims for added support and adjustment capabilities. Once the bottom frame is secure, attach the two side pieces of two-by-four to the top of the framing and fasten them to the studs.
Once the frame is completed, plaster the area surrounding it with a Hydroment cement mixture and cover it with a layer of waterproofing membrane. If the tub is being installed on tile, there must be a waterproofing membrane between the tub and the tile.
The next step is the installation. If a clawfoot tub is being installed, make sure to mark the center of the tub and use a chalk line to ensure it’s level. For a built-in tub, mark the center and use a level to ensure that the framing surrounding it is level and secure.
Finally, finish the job by securing the edges of the tub to the frame, adding appropriate caulking, and applying final touches to the decor of the bathroom.
How do I fill the gap around my tub?
The first step to filling the gap around a tub is to take measurements of the area to determine the size and shape of the gap. This will help you determine what type of material to use to fill the gap.
Depending on your budget and desired aesthetic, you may choose to use caulk, foam backer rod, concrete backer board, or similar materials.
If you are using caulk, you will first need to prepare and clean the area to make sure it is free of dirt, dust, and any other debris. Once the area is prepared, you will need to apply the caulk with a caulk gun.
This can be somewhat challenging if you are not used to using the caulk gun, so make sure to practice beforehand. After the caulk dries, you can use a small tool, such as a credit card, to smooth out any lumps or bumps.
If you are using foam backer rod, you will first need to measure the gap to determine the appropriate size. You will then need to cut the foam backer rod to size and insert it into the gap. Once the foam backer rod is in place, you can use a sealant to attach it securely to the tub.
If you are using concrete backer board, the process is similar. You will need to measure the gap to determine the appropriate size of the backer board, cut the board accordingly, and then use a sealant to attach the pieces together.
No matter which materials you are using to fill the gap around your tub, it is important to make sure the area is free of dirt or debris and that the material is securely attached. Doing so will help ensure the area remains secure and waterproof in the future.
Can you use a tub surround with a drop in tub?
Yes, it is possible to use a tub surround with a drop-in tub. When installing a drop-in tub, the frame of the tub must first be secured to the subfloor and walls. Once the frame is secure, it is possible to install a tub surround on top of it.
Ensure that the tub surround is the correct size for the tub, as some tubs may require an extra large or small surround. In addition, the selections of tub surrounds may be limited depending on the size and shape of the drop-in tub.
When installing a tub surround, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This may include waterproofing the tub surround with caulk or silicone, or adding additional support to the walls or floor depending on the type of surround.
Taking the time to ensure that the tub surround is properly installed will help to protect it against the moisture that is associated with a drop-in tub.
Can you replace a drop in tub with a freestanding tub?
Yes, you can replace a drop in tub with a freestanding tub. Depending on the shape and size of the space, you will need to do some renovations to make the space fit for your new tub. You may need to replace the flooring and move some of the plumbing to adjust for your freestanding tub’s height and size.
This process can be done with or without the assistance of a professional contractor or plumber, but it is important to make sure that the new tub is securely connected to existing plumbing fixtures, and that the space is watertight and safe.
If you plan to do any extensive renovations to make the space fit for a freestanding tub, it is highly recommended that you hire professionals to assist with the installation.
Do drop in tubs leak?
Drop in tubs typically do not leak, but as with any plumbing fixture there can be circumstances that can cause a drop in tub to start to leak. Dropping in a tub requires a thick layer of waterproof material to be placed surrounding it and sealed properly to the tub to prevent any potential leaks.
If this material was not laid evenly or the seal around the tub was not done properly, then there is a chance that it may start to leak. Additionally, if the supports underneath the tub have become worn or inadequate, the tub could begin to sag significantly and create pressure on the seal or material, leading to possible leaking.
Therefore, proper installation and upkeep are essential to insure that a drop in tub is not prone to leaking.
What is the easiest tub surround to install?
The easiest tub surround to install is a prefabricated tub surround. It is a one-piece unit that comes in a variety of designs, colors, and sizes. It is composed of either solid vinyl, acrylic, or fiberglass and is designed to fit into the space around the tub.
This type of tub surround can usually be installed within a few hours, with minimal tools and effort. If you have some basic carpentry skills, you should be able to handle this installation with ease.
What is the difference between drop in and alcove tubs?
The main difference between drop in and alcove tubs is their installation process. A drop in tub is a prefabricated tub that is dropped into an enclosure and secured in place, while an alcove tub is made to fit into a three sided alcove or recess.
An advantage of a drop in tub is that it can be easily removed and replaced, or the enclosure altered to fit a different type of tub. An alcove tub is more expensive and requires more work during installation since it is integrated into the wall and flooring.
Drop in tubs come in all shapes and sizes and can be found in many colors and styles. They are a great option for achieving a modern look but they can also be used to achieve a more traditional look.
Alcove tubs follow a basic rectangular design and are usually only available in white or off-white colors.
Drop in tubs usually require some form of flooring adjustment or reinforcement when being installed, while alcove tubs require the correct measurements taken in order to fit perfectly in the alcove. The flooring around the base of a drop in tub will be mostly visible and require some form of edging.
An alcove tub will require some form of tilework in order to completely cover the alcove wall and floor.
In conclusion, drop in and alcove tubs are both popular choices for bathroom renovations, but they differ in their installation process and the look they provide. Drop in tubs are available in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes, making them the perfect solution for a modern bathroom.
Most alcove tubs come in standard rectangular designs and colors, making them the perfect solution for traditional or classic bathrooms.