How to Plumb a Bathtub in a Tight Space

The biggest difference between plumbing a bathtub in an average bathroom and a smaller one is obvious; cramped working conditions will make the project seem a bit more demanding. On the other hand, the process for installing a bathtub in a tight space is almost identical as it would be for any other size area. Plumbing a new bathtub with limited space won’t be as daunting if you get some help to maneuver the hefty fixture around the cramped room once you’re ready to install it.

Pencil
Waterlines
Drain line
Wrench
Level
Caulking
Plumber’s tape

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the small bathroom to decide exactly where the bathtub needs to be installed. While being as precise and exact as possible, mark the walls with pencil where you intend to place the bathtub as well as where the plumbing fixtures will connect to the tub.
- 2
  Turn off the waterline leading to the room that you will work in. Run a pair of pipes to the tub where you plan on installing a faucet. You will need two, as they will be the hot and cold waterlines for the tub.
- 3
  
  Most bathtubs have a pre-drilled hole for the drain line.
  
  Set the bathtub’s drain lines to connect to the main drain lines of the house. Apply caulk and plumber’s tape to prevent leakage around the ends of the drain pipes.
- 4
  Carefully maneuver the bathtub into the small marked area and line up the tub’s fittings with the pre-existing water pipes. Watch out for unmovable fixtures in your bathtub’s path such as toilets or sinks. Use a level to ensure that the tub is sitting on a smooth surface.
- 5
  Connect the two waterlines and the drain line to the bathtub in the specific areas that you marked earlier. The waterlines will be connected to the clearly labeled tap and the drain hose or pipe will lead to the home’s main waste line. Secure these fittings by covering the ends with a cloth and tightening them with a plumbing wrench.

How to Vent a Bathtub

How To: Over the Stove Faucet

Plumbing