Measuring a bathtub drain flange requires you to take some basic measurements of the area around the bathtub. First, measure the size of the opening – the distance across the top of the drain flange – using a tape measure.
Next, measure the height of the flange from the top of the bathtub to the bottom of the flange. Then, measure the circumference of the drain flange by wrapping a tape measure around the flange’s circumference.
Finally, measure the thickness of the flange to get the total depth of the bathtub drain. The measurements you take will depend on the type and size of the flange that you have, but all of these measurements are necessary in order to accurately measure a bathtub drain flange.
Are bathtub drains a standard size?
The short answer to this question is “yes,” bathtub drains generally come in a standard size. Most bathtub drains in the United States and Canada measure around 1 1/2 inches in diameter and fit the standard size pipe fittings.
While there are smaller drains with diameters of 1 1/4 inches, they are not as common. Many tubs come with a built-in strainer that sits over the drain and holds a rubber gasket or O-ring, so the drain can adapt to several different sizes of pipes.
These strainers usually measure around 2 or 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Depending on age and locality, bathroom plumbing can still come in a variety of sizes and connections. To ensure that you purchase the right drain for your bathtub, take the old plumbing with you when you shop.
What size tub drain do I need?
The size of tub drain you need depends on the type and size of your tub. Generally, a standard bathtub in a residential bathroom will use a 1 1/2″ or 2″ tub drain. Some bathtubs, particularly those in commercial settings, may require a 3”, 4”, or even larger tub drain.
Additionally, the type of drain you need depends on the type of tub you have. Clawfoot tubs are usually equipped with a 1 1/2” drain and overflow combination, while drop-in, alcove, and other types of tubs usually require a 1 1/2” or 2” tub drain without an overflow.
You should always consult a professional to determine the size of tub drain needed for your specific tub.
What are the rough in measurements for a bathtub drain?
The rough in measurements for a bathtub drain vary depending on the type of bathtub you are installing. For a drop-in bathtub, the drain should be placed 15 inches from the wall. For an undermount bathtub, the drain should be placed 12-14 inches from the wall.
The standard drain opening is 2. 25 inches in diameter. If a deeper bathtub is being installed, such as a whirlpool tub, a larger drain opening may be required. The bathtub should also have a P-trap located underneath the drain, with the center of the P-trap located 2-6 inches from the inside edge of the bathtub.
To ensure proper installation of the bathtub, it is important to take accurate rough in measurements and refer to installation instructions for your particular tub.
What size PVC pipe for a bathtub drain?
The size of the PVC pipe you will need for a bathtub drain depends on the size of the bathtub. If you have a standard-size bathtub, then you will need a 2-inch PVC pipe for the main drain and a 1 1/2-inch PVC pipe for a smaller stub-out (where the pipe will exit the tub and enter the wall).
However, if you have a large, luxury bathtub, then you will need to use a larger diameter pipe. In this case, a 3-inch pipe for the main drain and a 2-inch for the stub-out will be necessary. You should also consider the overall slope of the pipe.
The slope should be at least 1/4-inch per foot. This will ensure the bathtub drain works properly and flows away from the tub.
Can you replace drain in tub?
Yes, it is possible to replace a drain in a tub. Depending on the type of tub and drain you are dealing with, the replacement process can vary. In general, you will need to prepare the area properly, remove the old drain, install a new drain, connect the pipes, test the drain functionality, and then replace the tub’s overflow plate.
Preparing the area includes shutting off the water supply, protecting the area from dust and dirt, and gathering the necessary supplies. You’ll need a drain fitting, drain pipe, caulk, wrench, plumber’s putty and a bucket for any water in the pipes.
Once you have the area ready, you will then need to remove the old drain. Depending on your model, you may need to access it from the underside of the tub. You will then either unscrew, pull, or unscrew and pull the drain out of the tub.
Once the old drain is removed, you can feed the new drain into the opening and secure it. Use plumber’s putty or caulk to make sure the drain is well-sealed. Also remember to connect the fittings and pipe connectors appropriately.
After the drain is securely installed, it is recommended to test it by turning the water on to a slow drizzle and see if any water is leaking or pooling around the drain area. If you see any sign of pooling or dripping, you’ll need to go back and adjust the plumber’s putty or caulk to make sure the drain is sufficiently sealed.
Finally, place the overflow plate in its position and you should be all done. Be sure to clean up the area and put away your tools. If you’re uneasy about replacing your own drain, don’t hesitate to call a plumber who has the experience and skill needed to complete the job quickly and correctly.
Are there different types of bathtub drains?
Yes, there are different types of bathtub drains. Each type of bathtub drain features a different type of closure, allowing for both more efficient drainage as well as different design options.
The most common type of bathtub drain is the self-closing bathtub drain, which utilizes either a plunger-style or trip lever-style closure. This closure system makes it easy to close the drain after using the bathtub and ensures that water will remain in the tub after the drain has been closed.
Another type of bathtub drain to consider is the Pop Up bathtub drain. This type of drain features an automated pop up plug, which can be opened and closed using the twist of an inner knob. This style of bathtub drain allows for easy cleaning and offers a stylish look.
Yet another option is the Bath and Shower Combination Drain. This type of drain features protection from both backflow and the recirculation of water. It also offers a dual system for both bath and shower fixtures.
This type of drain is great for those who enjoy both swimming and showering and who are looking for increased efficiency.
Regardless of which type of bathtub drain you choose, you can be sure that all types of drain styles and closure systems have their individual benefits and drawbacks, so you will have to determine which option is best for your needs.
Should I use plumbers putty or silicone on tub drain?
The answer to this question largely depends on the kind of tub drain that you have. If your tub drain has a non-porous surface, then plumbers putty is likely the best option. Plumbers putty is easier and quicker to apply than silicone, and it provides a strong seal between the drain and the tub.
Additionally, plumbers putty can be removed more easily than silicone and can be used to form a watertight seal for both plastic and metal drains.
However, if your tub drain has a porcelain-on-steel surface, then silicone should be used instead of plumbers putty. Unlike plumbers putty, silicone will not dry out and crack, so it provides a better seal.
Silicone is also ideal for creating a watertight seal on porcelain-on-steel surfaces and is less likely to leak as compared to plumbers putty. Additionally, silicone has a longer lifespan than plumbers putty.
It is important to note that both plumbers putty and silicone can be used in combination with other materials such as tape, screws, and washers. If you are unsure which material to use for your tub drain, it is best to consult with a professional plumber who can help you make the right decision.
What is the drain assembly on a tub called?
The drain assembly on a tub is called the tub waste and overflow assembly. This assembly is usually made up of a few components, including a drain assembly, a trip lever, and a tailpiece. The drain assembly serves as the primary drain and release valve for the tub.
It contains a stopper, which is operated by the pull of a trip lever. The tailpiece is a pipe that connects the tub drain to the drainpipe under the floor of the bathroom. The tub waste and overflow assembly provides a watertight closure, preventing water from escaping the tub and flowing onto the floor.
In addition, it also helps to maintain a steady, yet low, level of water in the tub, allowing for a more enjoyable and relaxed bath experience.
Can a bathtub have a 2 inch drain?
Yes, a bathtub can have a 2 inch drain. However, if the drain is used in a standard domestic bathtub, it must be a minimum of 1. 5 inches in order to meet code requirements. Furthermore, bathtubs with a 2 inch drain may require a different type of drain than those with a 1.
5 inch drain, such as an air admittance valve (AV) for the toilet or a cheater plug for the bathtub. The reason for this is because the larger drain size needs more drainage space to work properly. It is also important to note that a 2 inch drain may require a larger capacity water supply line to keep the water flowing at a reasonable rate.
As such, it is important for homeowners to research and determine what drain size is right for their home and bathtub before installation.
Can I use PVC for tub drain?
Yes, you can use PVC for tub drain but it is not the ideal material to use. PVC piping is not designed to withstand the same pressures as a typical cast iron or ABS tub drain can, which means it may not last as long.
It is also more difficult to install and leaks can occur more easily. PVC also requires use of a special type of adhesive, which is more difficult to find and use. Generally, it is recommended that you use a more durable material such as ABS or cast iron for a tub drain as these types of materials are more reliable and easier to connect.
Additionally, it is important to follow all installation instructions to ensure a good seal and protection against any potential leaks.
Do you need a vent pipe for a tub drain?
Yes, you will need to install a vent pipe for a tub drain. This type of pipe is important for the proper functioning of a tub drain and helps to prevent blockages and backups that can occur when air cannot freely escape from the drain.
A vent pipe helps to equalize the water pressure in the drain which allows the water to flow out of the tub. Additionally, it helps to prevent sewer gas from entering your home. To ensure proper installation, most local building codes require that a vent pipe be attached to the tub drain.
The vent pipe should also be connected to the main vent stack, which is typically located on the roof of the home. When installing a vent pipe it is important to use the correct materials, such as ABS or PVC, and follow relevant plumbing codes.
Finally, the size of the vent pipe should be the same as the drain pipe to ensure efficient air flow.
What are the parts of a tub drain called?
The parts of a tub drain are generally described as the following: Tub Drain Stopper, Overflow Plate, Washer, Threaded Cap, Tub Drain Pipe, Hair Trap, Tail Piece and Adjustable Wrench. The Tub Drain Stopper is the part of the drain that is designed to be able to close and open the water flow for the tub.
The overflow plate, also known as the flange or overflow cover, is the part of the drain that surrounds the edge of the top of the bathtub and protects the tub from an overfill of water. The washer is the flat internal seal that is typically made of rubber and helps provide a water-tight seal between the drain and the overflow plate.
The threaded cap is the external part of the drain that threads into the washer and holds the washer into place. The tub drain pipe is the part of the drain that connects the drain stopper to the hair trap and tail piece.
The tail piece is attached to the waste supply pipe and is often a metal or plastic tube with a threaded end. The hair trap fits into the drain pipe and helps catch any human or animal hair or clumps of dirt that try to pass through the drain pipe.
The adjustable wrench is an essential tool used to secure and loosen the threaded cap and to adjust any other parts of the tub drain.
How much does it cost to replace a tub drain assembly?
The cost of replacing a tub drain assembly varies depending on the complexity of the installation and the materials used. The average cost of just the drain assembly itself ranges from around $15 to $40.
However, if the existing drain is hard to access or in need of additional work, the cost can increase dramatically. The cost of labor and the necessary additional materials can quickly add up to $100 or more.
Additionally, some plumbing projects require a permit or professional installation, which can also drive up the price. If you’re unsure of the complexity of the job, it’s best to consult a professional and get an estimate before moving forward.
Is it easy to replace tub drain?
Replacing a tub drain is a moderately easy project that can be completed with a few basic tools. It is a great weekend project that can be completed either by a novice DIYer or a professional plumber.
Depending on the situation, start by removing the old drain and preparing the assembly for the new one. This may require you to use wrenches, pliers, and a hacksaw. Once the assembly is ready, slip the new drain into place and secure it with plumber’s putty.
Finally, attach the drain end to the drain trap and tub spout, and verify that all connections are secure.