How to Mortar Bed a Tub

Set up a mixing area in the bathroom. Spread plastic sheeting down on the floor if you are working in a home that is already lived in. Cover nearby furniture as well. Cut the sheets down to size with the utility knife.

Put a bag of mortar mix into the wheelbarrow, and cut open the bag with a utility knife. Dump the mix into the wheelbarrow. Add water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and begin to turn the mixture with the shovel. Include the second batch if your wheelbarrow is large enough, or mix the second bag after you empty the first.

Cover the area where the tub will rest with a layer of felt paper and chicken wire. This provides a moisture barrier and bondage for the mortar. Cut the felt paper with the utility knife. Cut the the wire with a pair of snips. Put the paper down first, overlapping the pieces. Put down the wire on top of that, and staple it to the floor with the hammer tacker.

Shovel the mortar into place on top of the wire. Cover the mortar with a layer of plastic sheeting, so your tub doesn’t actually stick to the mortar in case you want to remove it for a remodel or repair in the future. Ask a friend to help you maneuver the tub into place within its frame, and lower it onto the mortar.

Fill the tub with water, so it settles onto the base of mortar and forces the mortar to conform to the shape of the tub’s base. If your tub has flanges that are meant to be attached to the wall studs, screw them in with the drill and screws. Give the mortar at least 72 hours to dry before you drain the water from the tub and finish your bathroom renovations.