DIY Bathtub Installation Ideas

Just like with DIY vessel sinks, the way you choose to mount your DIY bathtub are a major factor in the type of tub your install ultimately. If you’re just looking to replace your tub only, it may be best to just stick with the same type of tub. But, if you’re planning to demolish your bathroom and start from the beginning, you’ll have more options when it comes to choosing bathtub types. This gives you the option to change the complete layout of your bathroom, placing your tub where ever you’d enjoy it most. Here are different ways that different styles of bathtubs can be installed for your do-it-yourself bathroom project:

DIY Alcove Bathtub Installation

Alcove tubs are sunken bathtubs that are usually rectangular shaped. They are installed next to three connected walls, which leaves one side open for getting in and out of the tub. The front and back and other side of the alcove bathtub are bordered by walls or shower wall. They are considered standard bathtubs, but their depths can vary.

During your DIY bathtub installation, you designate your alcove tub as a “right handed” or “left handed” bathtub. This is all about placing the drain where it’s most conveniently accessible to you based on whether you’re a right hand or left hand person.

DIY Platform Bathtub Installation

These DIY bathtubs for by multiple other names: “platform”, “deck mounted” and “drop in.” When installing these tubs, they are sat atop a deck structure that is built upward, as opposed to outward. The tub rim is placed at the same level as the top of the deck.

Another style DIY installation of these platform bathtubs requires placing them down into the bathroom floor. The bathtub rim is left level with the floor. If the tub is deep in depth, this DIY tub installation style makes it harder to get in and out of the platform tub.

DIY Undermount Bathtub Installation

These tubs are very similar to platform tubs except for one thing. The bathtub rim is covered a deck made of stone, tile or similar bathtub material. The weight of the undermount bathtub is supported by the floor itself.

When debating on using an undermount tub, consider how long you plan to keep it. These tubs are very difficult to remove, as the decks will have to be broken into pieces for removal. So, if there is a high possibility of you having to de-install your bathtub someday soon, this may not be a wise of cost-effective DIY bathtub installation choice for you.

DIY Free Standing Bathtub Installation

Free-standing bathtubs are just as the name implies. They stand, by themselves, directly onto the bathroom floor. There are no support structures, such as cabinets, etc… Two examples of free-standing tubs are the clawfoot and vintage bathtubs. These types of DIY tub installations need to be near water delivery and plumbing drainage points.

Starting Your DIY Bathroom from Scratch

Your DIY bathroom choices should be dictated by the type of bathtub you choose to use. It also depend heavily on the type of bathtub material you choose, especially when weight is a factor. Starting from scratch, in a completely gutted and demolished bathroom can give you many more options for a completely new bathroom design and layout.