How To Install A Bath

Installing a bath is an essential part of any bathroom renovation or installation project. It's important to ensure that the bath is installed properly to avoid any potential issues, such as leaks or instability.

In this guide, we'll take you through the steps to install a standard acrylic bath. However, please note that the exact process may vary depending on the type of bath you are installing and the specific requirements of your bathroom.

Before you begin the installation process, it's important to make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Additionally, safety should be a top priority throughout the installation process, so we'll also provide some safety tips and precautions to keep in mind.

Tools required

• Adjustable wrench
• Electric drill with hole cutter
• Hack saw
• Pencil
• Pipe cutter
• Sealant gun
• Spirit level
• Standard screwdrivers
• Tape measure

Preparing the area

• Removing any existing fixtures or fittings
• Measuring and marking the position of the bath
• Checking the plumbing and drainage systems

Before you begin installing your bath, it's important to check baths for any damages or imperfection. This would require removing any and all packaging including the protect film on the baths surface. Preparing the area includes measuring and marking the position of the bath, removing any existing fixtures or fittings, and checking the plumbing and drainage pipework.

Removing any existing fixtures or fittings:

If you're replacing an old bath, you'll need to remove any existing fixtures or fittings first. This may include taps, showerheads, waste pipes, and any other accessories. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen and remove any nuts or bolts holding these in place.

Measuring and marking the position of the bath:

Start by measuring the length, width, and height of the bath to ensure that it will fit properly in the space you have. Mark the position of the bath on the floor using a pencil or masking tape, making sure it is centred and level.

Checking the plumbing and drainage systems:

Check the plumbing and drainage pipework to make sure they are in good condition and working properly. This includes checking for any leaks, blockages, or damage. If you find any issues, it's important to address them before you continue the installation process.

Once you have prepared the area, you're ready to move on to the next step: installing the bath legs.

Installing the bath legs

• Assembling the legs according to the manufacturer's instructions
• Positioning the legs under the bath and adjusting their height if necessary
• Securing the legs to the bath and the floor

Installing the bath legs:

Once you've prepared the area and checked the plumbing and drainage systems, it's time to install the bath legs. Here's how to do it:

Assembling the legs according to the manufacturer's instructions:

Start by assembling the bath legs according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves attaching the legs to the feet and any brackets or fixings needed. Make sure you have all the necessary parts before you begin.

Positioning the legs under the bath and adjusting their height if necessary:

Next, position the legs under the bath, and adjust the height of the legs. The bath will need to be adjusted to suite the height of the bath panel. Measure the bath panel and ensure the bath is set to the height of the panel, remember to take into consideration the thickness or height of any additional flooring.

Once you're happy with the position of the legs, secure them to the bath using the fixings provided.

With the legs installed, you're ready to move on to the next step: connecting the waste and overflow.

Connecting the waste and overflow

• Installing the waste outlet and overflow pipe

Connecting the waste and overflow:

The waste (plug) and overflow are essential components of your bath's plumbing system. 

Start by installing the waste outlet and overflow pipe according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves fitting the waste outlet into the hole in the bath, and attaching the overflow pipe to the overflow hole. Silicone sealant may be required to ensuite you have a water tight fit around the waste and overflow.

Installing the taps:

Installing the taps to your bath is easy before installing the bath into its final position, depending on your bath, tap holes may need to be drilled into your baths tap ledge using a drill and hole cutter.

Start by installing the taps according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves fitting the taps onto the bath, and securing them with bolts. Make sure the taps are centred and in the location before you proceed.

Install Bath Seal (optional)

If you wish to install a bath seal, for example a "Superseal Water Stop" or "Aquastrap" it would be time to install this now. Follow the instructions provided by the seals manufacturer.

Install the bath in its final position.

• Install Bath Seal
• Move the bath into its final position.
• Ensure the bath is level and the correct height.
• Secure the bath to the wall and floor.

Position the bath in its final location and ensure the bath is level and at the correct height for you bath panel. Once you are happy with the level and height of the bath then secure the legs to the floor using screws or bolts. Make sure the legs are firmly attached and the bath is stable. Affix the bath to the wall with any bracket provided and ensure the bath is secure.

Connecting the taps & waste to the plumbing.

Connect the taps

Connect the taps to the plumbing system. This may involve installing flexible hoses, pipes, and other fittings. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions and consult a professional plumber if you're unsure.

Connect the waste

Connect the waste to waste outlet and bath trap. This involves fixinf the trap to the bath waste and trap to the waste pipe. This can normally be done by hand.

Filling the bath with water:

Turn on the water and fill the bath with water. Check the water temperature. Checking for leaks round all the pipe work and adjust/tighten as necessary to stop any leaks. Make sure the taps are firmly attached and the water is flowing smoothly before you use the bath.

Your bath should now be installed and ready for the next steps in your bathroom installation.

Finishing touches and cleanup

• Installing the bath panel
• Sealing around the bath edges
• Installing any wall surfaces
• Cleaning up the work area

Now that you've installed the bath, there are a few final touches to complete and some cleanup to do:

Installing Wall covering:

Install the wall coving, tiles or bathroom wall panels, If you chose not to install a bath seal you may wish to install a hidden seal like a “No more leaks” now prior to installing the wall covering.

Sealing around the bath edges:

To prevent water from seeping under the bath, you should seal the edges with silicone sealant. Apply the sealant along the edge of the bath, smoothing it out with a finger or a sealant tool. Allow the sealant to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before using the bath.

Installing the bath panel:

If you're using a bath panel, now is the time to install it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure the panel is securely attached to the bath.

Cleaning up the work area:

Finally, clean up the work area by removing any debris or tools, wiping down surfaces, and disposing of any waste materials. Make sure the area is safe and tidy before you leave.

With the finishing touches complete and the work area cleaned up, you can now enjoy your newly installed bath!

Whilst DIY can be a good way to save time and money, you should always hire a qualified professional to plumb and fully install your products. The instructions above are simply a guide to fitting your new bath and shouldn’t be used to attempt full plumbing and installation.