Are you planning in fitting a new bathtub in your home? Read on to know and avoid these 5 bathtub installation mistakes.
1. Bathtub installation mistakes: Incorrect Measurements
Taking precise measurements may seem like a basic step, but it’s often overlooked during the rush of a bathroom renovation. Accurate dimensions of both your bathroom space and the new bathtub are critical to ensure a perfect fit. Many homeowners mistakenly measure just the area where the tub will sit, forgetting about the path the tub must take to reach the bathroom. If doorways, hallways, and stairs are too narrow, it could lead to serious installation issues or even damage to your home. Therefore, it’s essential to carefully measure and plan before purchasing and installing your new bathtub.
2. Ignoring the Weight: Support is Essential
It’s easy to underestimate the weight of a bathtub, especially when it’s filled with water and occupied. This weight isn’t just a matter of handling during installation; your bathroom floor needs to support it indefinitely. Bathtubs, particularly those made of cast iron or stone, can be incredibly heavy. If the bathroom floor isn’t structurally sound or reinforced to handle this weight, it could lead to serious issues like sagging, cracking, or in worst cases, a complete structural failure. Before installing a new bathtub, it’s crucial to assess the structural integrity of your floor and reinforce it if necessary.
3. Overlooking the Drain Location: Alignment Matters
The bathtub drain location might seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of the renovation, but it can have a significant impact on your project. Bathtubs have fixed drain positions, so if the drain location on your new tub doesn’t align with the existing plumbing, adjustments will have to be made. This can lead to unexpected expenses and delay your project timeline. When shopping for a new bathtub, remember to consider the drain location relative to your existing plumbing to avoid this complication.
4. Bathtub installation mistakes: Improper Waterproofing
Water leakage can turn a beautiful bathroom renovation into a homeowner’s nightmare. Even minor leaks can lead to extensive water damage over time, promoting mold growth, damaging flooring, and even compromising the structural integrity of your home. During installation, it’s vital to ensure that all joins and edges are adequately sealed. Additionally, a proper waterproofing membrane should be applied to protect the area around the tub. Ensuring a watertight seal may take a little more time, but it’s well worth the effort to avoid potential damage and costly repairs down the line.
5. Skipping the Level: Balance is Critical
Installing your new bathtub level may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on the usability and longevity of your tub. An uneven bathtub can lead to improper water drainage, causing water to pool in one area of the tub. This not only makes for an uncomfortable bathing experience, but it can also lead to long-term damage to the bathtub and surrounding area due to constant exposure to water. Plus, an uneven tub can feel unstable, compromising the safety of those using it. Always take the time to ensure the tub is level during installation.
Embarking on a bathroom renovation and fitting a new bathtub is a significant project that requires careful planning and attention to detail. While some homeowners are handy and comfortable taking on these tasks themselves, many people prefer to leave it to professionals. If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to do your research and be aware of potential pitfalls. If you’re hiring professionals, consulting with a local bathroom renovation company can help you avoid these common mistakes. Their expertise can ensure a smoother installation process and a beautifully finished product.
Photo by Steven Ungermann on Unsplash
