Making the decision to install a new bathtub shouldn’t be taken lightly as it requires a certain level of skill and a whole lot of effort. Before committing to a completely new bathtub, you should examine the other options available such as adding a new liner or re-glazing the old bathtub, both of which can mend your old tub without having to replace it. However, if it is necessary to install a brand new bathtub then bathroom remodeling is possible with a few tools and knowledge of how to connect drain pipes. Below is a step-by-step guide in how to install a new bathtub:

Ensure you have all the necessary tools

Gather together the following tools, all of which are required to complete the job:

Adjustable wrench

Screwdrivers

Drill

Hacksaw

Level

Tube cutter

Safety goggles

Tape measure

Hammer

Gloves

Set the new bathtub in place

Carefully slide the new bathtub into position, ensuring its level and leaving a gap of 1/8^th of an inch around the edge. Use a pencil to mark out a reference line all the way around and then remove the new bathtub and place it to one side for the time being.

Install the support (stringer)

Measure the height of the flange on your new bathtub and using that measurement, mark a distance below the reference line on each stud. This will be where the top edge of the stringer is located. Cut a piece the length of your bathtub and attach it using deck screws on the new marks.

Attach the overflow pipes and drain pipes

You’ll need to dry fit the overflow pipes and drain pipes onto the new bathtub according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Measure the overflow pipes and the drain pipes to ensure they match up perfectly to the stringer you have already attached to the wall. Lay the bathtub on its side and place some plumber’s putty on the underside of the flange. Attach the drain shoe and tighten into the threads, removing any remaining putty. Install the overflow and drain pipes using the screws provided and leave to set in place.

Ensure everything is properly connected

Once dried, carefully slide the new bathtub back into position, ensuring you don’t disrupt any of the attachments you’ve just placed on the tub. Once it is in position, the flange of the bathtub should perfectly match the stringer you installed earlier and the overflow and drain plumbing should be aligned. Connect the pipes together, being careful not to over tighten.

Secure the bathtub

Ensure the bathtub matches up with the markings you made previously and ensure it is flush against the wall. Attach the tub using nails through the flange. Turn on the water and test the plumbing for any leaks. If there are no problems, finish off the walls and install the shower head, tub spout, and faucet handles.

If you feel you have the required skills, installing a new bathtub by yourself can be a fun project to undertake. The majority of the work can be completed alone, however, you may require a helping hand when moving the tub itself. On the other hand, if you want an expert  bathroom remodeling job, then you no longer have to worry about making any mistakes either.