How to Rough-in a Bathtub for a DIY Plumbing Project

AvatarByLiana Farrell Bathtub Queries

How to Rough In a Bathtub

A bathtub is a necessity in any home, but it can be a daunting task to rough in one. In this article, we will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can have a beautiful and functional bathtub in your home in no time.

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right bathtub to installing the plumbing and fixtures. We’ll also provide tips on how to make your bathtub installation as smooth and easy as possible.

So if you’re ready to learn how to rough in a bathtub, read on!

Step Tools and Materials Instructions
1 Measuring tape, pencil, level, saw, hammer, nails, stud finder, PVC pipe, fittings, drain assembly, tub flange, plumber’s putty, caulk Measure the area where you want to install the bathtub and mark the location of the drain. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall behind the bathtub. Cut the PVC pipe to the desired length and attach the fittings. Place the drain assembly in the hole in the floor and secure it with plumber’s putty. Attach the tub flange to the wall studs with nails or screws.
2 Bathtub, shims, plumber’s putty, caulk Place the bathtub in the desired location and shim it level. Apply plumber’s putty around the edge of the bathtub and caulk the joints between the bathtub and the wall.
3 Faucets, showerhead, drain cover Install the faucets, showerhead, and drain cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to Rough In a Bathtub

Roughing in a bathtub is the process of installing the plumbing for a bathtub before the bathtub itself is put in place. This involves connecting the water supply lines, drain line, and overflow drain to the bathtub. It is an important step in the bathtub installation process, and it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the bathtub works properly.

Planning the Rough-In

The first step in roughing in a bathtub is to plan the installation. This involves determining the location of the bathtub, measuring the bathtub and the space where it will be installed, determining the type of plumbing you will need, and choosing the right materials.

Determine the location of the bathtub

The first step is to determine where you want to place the bathtub. The bathtub should be located in a convenient location, such as in a bathroom or laundry room. It should also be located in a place where it will be easy to access the plumbing.

Measure the bathtub and the space where it will be installed

Once you have determined the location of the bathtub, you need to measure the bathtub and the space where it will be installed. This will help you determine how much space you need for the bathtub and the plumbing.

Determine the type of plumbing you will need

The type of plumbing you will need for your bathtub depends on the type of bathtub you have. If you have a standard bathtub, you will need a hot water supply line, a cold water supply line, a drain line, and an overflow drain. If you have a whirlpool bathtub, you will also need a jet pump and a control panel.

Choose the right materials

The materials you need for roughing in a bathtub will vary depending on the type of plumbing you are using. For a standard bathtub, you will need copper pipes, PVC pipes, PEX pipes, a bathtub drain, a bathtub overflow drain, a tub spout, and a water shutoff valve. For a whirlpool bathtub, you will also need a jet pump and a control panel.

Installing the Rough-In

Once you have planned the rough-in, you can begin installing the plumbing. The following steps will walk you through the process of roughing in a bathtub:

1. Connect the water supply lines to the bathtub. The water supply lines for a bathtub are typically located on the back of the bathtub. You will need to connect the hot water supply line to the hot water inlet on the bathtub and the cold water supply line to the cold water inlet on the bathtub.
2. Connect the drain line to the bathtub. The drain line for a bathtub is typically located on the bottom of the bathtub. You will need to connect the drain line to the drain outlet on the bathtub.
3. Install the overflow drain. The overflow drain for a bathtub is typically located on the side of the bathtub. You will need to install the overflow drain so that it is level with the top of the bathtub.
4. Install the tub spout. The tub spout for a bathtub is typically located on the front of the bathtub. You will need to install the tub spout so that it is level with the top of the bathtub.

Once you have installed the plumbing for the bathtub, you can test the bathtub to make sure that it is working properly. Turn on the hot and cold water supply lines and make sure that the water is flowing freely into the bathtub. Check the drain line to make sure that the water is draining properly.

Roughing in a bathtub is a relatively simple process, but it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the bathtub works properly. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily rough in a bathtub in your home.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips to help you rough in a bathtub:

  • Use the right tools and materials. Make sure that you have the right tools and materials for the job. This will help you to complete the rough-in quickly and easily.
  • Follow the instructions carefully. The instructions that come with your bathtub will provide you with detailed instructions on how to rough in the bathtub. Make sure that you follow these instructions carefully to avoid any mistakes.
  • Test the bathtub before you install it. Once you have finished roughing in the bathtub, test it to make sure that it is working properly. This will help you to catch any problems before you install the bathtub.

By following these tips, you can easily rough in a bathtub in your home.

How to Rough In a Bathtub?

Roughing in a bathtub is the process of installing the plumbing and drain for a bathtub. It is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the bathtub is installed correctly and safely.

Tools and Materials

The following tools and materials are required to rough in a bathtub:

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Hammer
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • Pipe wrench
  • Tub spout
  • Drain assembly
  • Water supply lines
  • Drain trap
  • PVC glue
  • Plumbing sealant
  • Caulk

Step 1: Determine the Location of the Bathtub

The first step is to determine the location of the bathtub. The bathtub should be located in a central location in the bathroom, so that it is accessible from all areas of the room. The bathtub should also be located near a water supply and drain.

Step 2: Mark the Location of the Bathtub

Once you have determined the location of the bathtub, you will need to mark the location on the floor. Use a tape measure and pencil to mark the outline of the bathtub.

Step 3: Cut the Hole for the Bathtub

Next, you will need to cut a hole in the floor for the bathtub. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the bathtub and the drain assembly. Use a saw to cut the hole.

Step 4: Install the Drain Assembly

Once the hole is cut, you can install the drain assembly. The drain assembly consists of a drain flange, a drain pipe, and a trap. The drain flange is installed in the hole in the floor. The drain pipe is connected to the drain flange. The trap is connected to the drain pipe.

Step 5: Install the Water Supply Lines

The next step is to install the water supply lines. The water supply lines are connected to the hot and cold water pipes in the wall. The water supply lines are typically copper pipes.

Step 6: Install the Tub Spout

The final step is to install the tub spout. The tub spout is installed on the side of the bathtub. The tub spout is typically a chrome or brass spout.

Testing the Rough-In

Once you have completed the rough-in, you will need to test it to make sure that it is working properly. Turn on the water supply to the bathtub and check for leaks around the water supply lines and the drain. Check that the overflow drain is working properly.

Finishing the Rough-In

The final step is to finish the rough-in. This involves covering the rough-in with drywall or another type of wall covering. You will also need to install the bathtub surround.

Roughing in a bathtub is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the bathtub is installed correctly and safely. By following the steps in this guide, you can rough in a bathtub like a professional.

How do I rough in a bathtub?

Roughing in a bathtub involves installing the necessary plumbing and framing to support the bathtub. The steps involved are as follows:

1. Measure the location of the bathtub and mark the studs on the wall. The bathtub should be centered on the wall, with at least 18 inches of clearance on either side.
2. Cut the drywall to create the opening for the bathtub. The opening should be 6 inches wider and 12 inches taller than the bathtub.
3. Install the plumbing for the bathtub. This includes the hot and cold water supply lines, the drain line, and the overflow drain.
4. Install the framing for the bathtub. This includes the side walls, the back wall, and the bottom.
5. Install the bathtub. The bathtub should be placed in the opening and secured to the framing.
6. Install the faucet and showerhead. The faucet and showerhead should be connected to the hot and cold water supply lines.
7. Install the drain cover. The drain cover should be installed over the drain hole.

What are the tools I need to rough in a bathtub?

The tools you need to rough in a bathtub include:

  • A tape measure
  • A level
  • A saw
  • A drill
  • A hammer
  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • A caulking gun
  • A drain pan

What is the rough-in size for a bathtub?

The rough-in size for a bathtub is 30 inches by 60 inches. This means that the bathtub should be installed 30 inches from the wall on the back and 60 inches from the wall on the sides.

How much does it cost to rough in a bathtub?

The cost of roughing in a bathtub varies depending on the size and type of bathtub you choose. The average cost is between $200 and $400.

Can I rough in a bathtub myself?

Yes, you can rough in a bathtub yourself. However, it is important to make sure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job correctly. If you are not comfortable doing the work yourself, you can hire a professional plumber to do it for you.

What are the steps involved in roughing in a bathtub?

The steps involved in roughing in a bathtub are as follows:

1. Measure the location of the bathtub and mark the studs on the wall. The bathtub should be centered on the wall, with at least 18 inches of clearance on either side.
2. Cut the drywall to create the opening for the bathtub. The opening should be 6 inches wider and 12 inches taller than the bathtub.
3. Install the plumbing for the bathtub. This includes the hot and cold water supply lines, the drain line, and the overflow drain.
4. Install the framing for the bathtub. This includes the side walls, the back wall, and the bottom.
5. Install the bathtub. The bathtub should be placed in the opening and secured to the framing.
6. Install the faucet and showerhead. The faucet and showerhead should be connected to the hot and cold water supply lines.
7. Install the drain cover. The drain cover should be installed over the drain hole.

roughing in a bathtub is a relatively simple process that can be completed by anyone with basic DIY skills. However, it is important to carefully follow the steps in this guide to ensure that the bathtub is installed correctly and safely. By taking the time to do your research and plan ahead, you can avoid any potential problems and have a beautiful new bathtub installed in your home in no time.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when roughing in a bathtub:

  • Make sure to measure the space carefully and choose the right size bathtub for your needs.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the bathtub.
  • Use the proper tools and materials to ensure a safe and secure installation.
  • Test the bathtub before using it to make sure that it is installed correctly and there are no leaks.

By following these tips, you can easily rough in a bathtub and enjoy a relaxing bath in your new home in no time.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.