Over time, even the sturdiest of bathtubs need replacing. After years of use, a bathtub can become stained, chipped, or scratched, which causes it to look worn. If you have plans to sell your home in the future, consider how bathtub looks. A visually unappealing bathroom can devalue the selling price of your home.
To have a successful bathtub installation, several things are necessary. You will need adequate time to start and complete the project. You will also need to hire a licensed plumber with appropriate tools and plumbing experience in order to do the job without causing damage to floors, walls, and water lines.
Traditional Bathtub Installation Considerations
The most important step in selecting a new bathtub is determining the amount of room you have to work with. Unless major renovations are part of the project, the size of the old tub usually dictates the size of your new tub.
Measure both the width and length of the bathtub area to know if installing a different size or type of tub is possible. In most cases, you will be limited to the same-size tub currently installed. The size of your bathroom door also needs to be considered. When choosing a different bathtub, consider whether the opening to the bathroom door needs to be enlarged before the tub can fit through.
If a complete bathroom renovation is the plan, gather all the information, including size specifications for all the fixtures. Knowing how much room you have and the size of each fixture allows you to lay out a floor plan according to the available square footage.
Other Types of Bathtub Installation
If you are installing a whirlpool tub for the first time, it’s important that the measurements of the bathroom are large enough to accommodate the tub. A motor is also required for these types of nontraditional bathtubs. Additional electrical lines and outlets may be necessary if the area currently has no properly sized circuits available. An electrician will be required to run the appropriate electrical lines. Installation also includes
- fitting the new bathtub into place,
- adjusting and sizing the drain hole,
- fitting the tub and fixtures,
- tying into a dedicated circuit to accommodate the tub’s motor mechanism, and
- providing an access panel.
Permits
Remodeling and renovation home improvement projects—as well as room additions, add-ons, or new structures—require the proper permit from the city or county. Before hiring a licensed plumber to install a new bathtub, contact the local department in your area for specific requirements for your project.
If a permit is required, an inspection by a city official may be necessary to sign off on the work. This validation ensures the plumbing and any electrical work has been completed according to city code requirements.
For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
Image source: Flickr
