When trying to fix a bathtub into their bathrooms, most homeowners consider calling a plumber to do the job for them. However, there are steps that the homeowner can follow and install the tub by themselves in their preferred location or position.
When installing a freestanding air bathtub, one should consider their bathroom space and how it fuses with other fixtures. Try viewing the following factors when getting the best freestanding air tub;
- Its decorative style. A freestanding soaking tub is considered a piece of art. So when selecting a tub to install in your bathroom space, consider its decorative style, color, and functionality.
- Shape and size: the tub should fit into the bathroom and leave space for other bathroom activities. Be sure to take measurements of your tub space and get a tub that has a lucrative shape and size to fit your needs.
Materials Needed
Before installing the freestanding soaking tub, there is a list of materials one needs to have to make their installation process more manageable. They include;
- A bathtub
- A blanket
- A damp cloaks
- Cleaning supplies
- Silicone
- Caulk
- A level
- Plumbers putty
Once you have considered the above factors and have the required materials for the installation process and the tub, the following are the steps you should take.
- Prepare the Floor
Clean the desired floor thoroughly to ensure no particles or water will damage the tub floor once it is installed.
Set a drainage system for the tub. If there is no present drainage system, install one dispensing on the type of floor that is in your bathroom to fit the one present on the tub. Once the drainage system has been set, cover up the drainage hole to protect it from dirt particles and other remains. Then perform the finishing work on your floor.
- Set the Freestanding Soaking Tub
All freestanding tubs have a drainage system installed by the manufacturers. Check through the tub to ensure the drainage nut is present and is not loose. If the nut is loose, be sure to tighten it. Ensure that the set drainage system aligns with the bathroom’s drainage system under the tub. Take measurements of the drainage set under the soaking tub to be aware of its alignment. As you do this, ensure you place the tub on a blanket to prevent damage or use a board for extra support.
- Clean the Drainage System
Once the tub drainage system is aligned with the bathroom system, clean the drainage hole of the soaking tub. Get rid of the dirt or any other particle on the drainage hole. Use the damp cloth for cleaning the tub. You can also consider cleaning using hot water with a detergent to eliminate any present bacteria if the tub was a second hand, then leave it to dry. Once it’s clean and dry, squeeze a small amount of silicone into the draining hole; this helps keep the tub free of molds.
- Set the Drain Piece Tail
The freestanding soak tub comes with a pre-installed pop-up drainage system. Attach the drain’s tailpiece to the bottom of the soaking tub. The first step, place the plastic bushing on top of the tailpiece and slide the drain nut up the tube. Screw it into the tub drain. Add a lubricant to the rubber seal of the piece.
- Place the Freestanding Soaking Tub
The final installation of the soaking tub varies depending on the manufacturer and model. Still, most freestanding tubs are always set in place and sealed with the silicone caulk, mentioned as a required material. The Silicone caulk provides a watertight seal where the tub has joined the floor and helps keep the soaking tub in place. The tub is not otherwise fastened to the floor. With some tubs, you apply a continuous bead of caulk along the bottom edge around the perimeter of the tub. Other tubs have hidden leveling feet that receive a dab of caulk.
Once the underside of the tub is caulked, it takes two or more people to lift the tub, center it over the tub drain. Still, most and then carefully lower it to the floor while fitting the tailpiece into the drainpipe or flange. The tub is checked for correct positioning, and then apply a final bead of caulk along the joint where the tub joins to the floor. The tub is ready to use after 24 hours when the caulk has fully cured.
Maintenance of the Freestanding Soaking Tub
Once you have the tub working, several tips to follow to ensure it functions properly and lasts longer. The maintenance tips include;
- Check the drain hole of the tub to see if it’s clogged. Clogging may be caused by a buildup of hair or soaps. Remove the clog using a piece of stick-like equipment or a wire. Once this is done, pour hot water into the tub and allow it to drain slowly. If these steps do not help, call a plumber to work on the whole drainage system. Unclogging the tub once in a while helps keep the tub healthy and safe for use.
- Make a bleach solution
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