So, you are ready to spruce up, refresh, or repair your bathroom, which might mean installing a bathtub. Why should you replace the bathtub? Well, for many people, it is a matter of necessity. Perhaps the bathtub is old and cracked or maybe it is leaking and causing damage to the bathroom. For others on the other hand, it is simply a matter of wanting something new, a better design, or you are just tired of looking at the same bathtub day after day. Whatever your reasons for a new bathtub, it is important that you understand how to install it properly.

First, you will need to gather all the needed tools and accessories that are used while installing a bathtub. You will need to take measurements of the tub area so you are able to choose a tub that is the right size. If you buy a tub that does not fit, this will create frustration as well as possible financial stress. You should gather all the nails, screws, pipes and fittings as well as any other items needed, before beginning your tub installation. Trying to install a bathtub without all the proper materials is not an easy thing to do, so be sure to gather up all you need before you begin so you are able to do the job properly.

The most common mistake made by many homeowners while trying to replace the bathtub is the failure to turn off the water that feeds the bathroom, before disconnecting the existing pipes. Failure to do so will lead to a flooding of the area that can damage not only the floor but also the walls, leading to repairs which are even more expensive. It only makes sense that for you to avoid this type of water damage that you make sure to turn the water off before you begin.

Before installing the new bathtub to its chosen area it is important to make sure that you attach and tighten all the new pipes properly, as well as secure the bathtub supports. Once this is done, you will place the connections for the drain, while making sure that the trap is lower than the drain to enable the tub to drain properly. Then you will be ready to connect the hot and cold water lines to your new bathtub. Once these are secured with the nipple and caps you will then turn the water back on. You should check for any leaks of all drains and pipes and correct any possible problem before finishing with your installation of the tub.

After checking and being positive there are no leaks, finish up with a tub surround. In some cases, these come with a new bathtub, can be purchase separately, or created yourself using tiles or drywall that is water resistant. Installing a bathtub can be an easy project if you know what precautions to take first.

When buying your new tub, make sure to ask about all materials you will need to install it so you don’t have to keep running back to the store. Being organized and having everything you need within reach, including installation instructions, will make your bathtub installation much easier.

There are hundreds of different kinds of bathtubs available in the markets today, all of varying styles, which is why selecting the right one for your home is not a very simple task. Not only do you have to pick the right color to match your bathroom and ensure that the design is right, but many more decisions have to be taken. Thus, this article lists all the factors that need to be considered when choosing a bathtub so that you end up buying the ideal one.

1) Functionality: A bathtub is essentially used for bathing, so what functionality are we talking about? Well, although bathtubs are used only for bathing, there are many features that add to the functionality of one. For instance, a whirlpool tub also provides a soothing and relaxing jet massage option in addition to regular bathing. Thus, you need to make sure that you will actually use the jets often and are not simply buying the tub because it has the added features. So, be clear on what your needs are and then pick a bath tub that fulfills them.

2) Tub size: The size of the bathtub is a major purchase criterion. People often assume that if the tub is big enough to fit them comfortably then it is the right size. However, there is such a thing as a too big bathtub. While the tub should definitely not be small for you, there shouldn’t be too much extra space either, which results in water wastage. Another thing to consider is whether you want a one person or two person tub. If you are likely to want to share your bathtub with your partner, go in for the 2 person one. However, if bath time is when you want to be with your thoughts, then choose the regular sized single person bathtubs.

3) Design, shape, and color: The color of a bathtub may not increase its functionality, but is an important consideration as the tub has to match the rest of your bathroom fixtures and accessories. Same goes for the design and style of the bathtub. A bathtub that is of a different style than your sink or toilet may look very out of place. As far as colors go cream and white are the regular options, but different hues of blue, pink, brown, green, and maroon are also available to match your décor. Rectangle, corner tubs, heart shaped, and oval are your choices as far as bathtub shape goes.

4) Material of the bathtub: It is important to look at the construction materials of bathtubs, as their strength, durability, and ease of maintenance depends on that. Different materials used to make bathtubs are – Acrylic, Marble, Porcelain tubs, Wood, Cast iron tubs, and Fiberglass. A fiberglass bath tub is quite an inexpensive buy but is less durable than cast iron or porcelain bath tubs. Cast iron tubs will practically last you for generations but can be very pricey also. As far as looks go, nothing can beat wood and marble bathtubs, but these are extremely difficult to maintain and keep clean. Thus, depending on what your topmost priorities are (durability, strength, looks, cost etc), you should choose a construction material accordingly.

5) Type of bath tub: Bathtubs are mainly of two types – soaking or standard. A standard bathtub is good for regular bathing, but if you want a bathtub for therapeutic purposes as well, you should buy a soaking tub. A soaking tub allows your whole body to be immersed into the hot water filled tub, thereby providing much needed relief to tired and achy muscles. Even high blood pressure and stress can be reduced with a thorough soak. Thus, if you wish to benefit from the therapeutic value of a bathtub, do go in for a soaking tub instead of a standard one.

6) Special Needs: Contrary to what most people believe, even aged people and handicapped persons can enjoy a bathtub. Yes, a regular bathtub may be too dangerous for them, but ADA compliant bathtubs can certainly be used by people with special needs. ADA bathtubs are made in a manner that old and handicapped people can easily enter and exit the tub. Increased protection is provided by grab bars and grab rails so that there is little danger of slipping and falling. Even people who are on wheelchairs can use specially designed ADA tubs.

Thus, you should choose a bathtub only after taking all the above factors into consideration. Your budget will also determine your choice of tub, but there are bathtubs available in all different price ranges so finding one within your budget should not be a problem.

This guide on choosing a bathtub should hopefully make the difference between picking the right one and the wrong one.