The Ultimate Guide to Bathtub Installation In Australia

Your journey of learning how to install a bathtub in Australia starts with choosing the perfect tub. From freestanding bathtubs to corner baths and back to wall baths, the options available cater to all tastes. Remember to consider your bathroom's size, the type of bath that complements its aesthetics, and your budget. You may find yourself swaying towards a modern freestanding bath or drawn to the vintage charm of claw-foot tubs. Always adhere to Australian Standards (AS 2023-1995) to ensure quality and safety.

Before commencing your bathroom renovation, ensure you have the necessary tools on hand: a level, tape measure, wrench, screwdriver, pliers, and a drill. Assess the floor underneath the existing bath. Is it strong enough to support your new bathtub, the hot and cold water it'll hold, and the person using it? This could be the deciding factor when choosing between a light acrylic bathtub or a heavier-pressed metal bath.

With the decision made, measure the length, width, and depth of your new bathtub. Mark these dimensions at the installation location. Check the straight edge of these markings to ensure they are level and accurate. This vital step will dictate how seamlessly the new bath fits into your bathroom.

Particularly crucial for built-inset baths, a bath frame provides the necessary support for your tub. Secure it firmly to the floor and wall studs using screws or nails. This step may not apply if you are installing a freestanding bathtub.

Now, carefully place your new bath into the frame or the allocated space, ensuring it sits level. Secure the tub to the wall studs using brackets or flanges. A freestanding bath would require a different approach.

In Australia, altering or extending existing plumbing systems is a task for a licensed plumber. As part of your DIY project, you may be responsible for the physical placement of the tub, but the plumbing work connecting the hot and cold water should be left to professionals.

After the plumbing connections are done, it's time to test your new bath. Fill the tub with water and check for leaks around the taps, drain hole, and overflow. Also, ensure the floor drain is functioning correctly. If all looks good, seal the edges of the tub where it meets the floor and walls with silicone caulk.

The last step of your bathroom renovation would involve installing surrounding wall and floor finishes, such as tiles, and fitting the bathroom door if needed.

Armed with this knowledge, you can now venture into your bathtub installation in Australia. Always consult the instructions provided by your bathtub manufacturer, as they may require specific steps. And remember, if you feel overwhelmed at any point, professional help is just a call away. After all the hard work, you can relax and soak in your brand new bath, knowing you've added value and style to your home with this bathroom renovation.