Installing a Clawfoot Tub

Unlike some clawfoot tub refinishing jobs, clawfoot tub installation really isn't a do-it-yourself project. Those with handyman or plumbing experience may be up for it, but be aware that a DIY installation could void the tub warranty - many clawfoot tub manufacturers will not accept warranty claims if the tub wasn't installed by a licensed plumber. Read the small print of your warranty before doing anything that could cost you later. We strongly recommend that you hire a professional to install your clawfoot bathtub in order to avoid warranty and/or installation problems.

Clawfoot tub installation

It's difficult to provide a specific set of installation tips for clawfoot tubs, because not all installations are standard. Some installations will involve PVC piping; others won't. Clawfoot tub supply lines vary in many ways: they may or may not have shutoff valves, which affects the rough in measurements; depending on the type of clawfoot tub faucet mount, the supply line may be single offset or double offset, with correspondingly different center measurements on the rough in. Clawfoot tub drains may be extended or standard depending on whether the tub is new or old. And so on and so forth.

For those who decide to attempt DIY installation, here are some very basic and general tips for installing a claw foot tub:

• For your clawfoot tub supply line, rough in 1/2-inch male IPS pipe at 1/2 inch above the floor if a shutoff valve is not included; if there's a shutoff valve, add another inch above the floor (for pipe threads).
• For the clawfoot tub drain, rough in 1 1/2-inch male IPS pipe with 1/2 inch for threads above the floor. A reducing washer is used to connect the 1 3/8-inch drain tubing to the 1 1/2-inch pipe.
• Use a plumb line to rough in clawfoot tub fixtures such as drains and supply lines. In the case of double offset supply lines (the most common type), hang the plumb line from the tub roll (center it on the overflow hole in the tub wall). Measure back 1 1/2 inches toward the tub from where the plumb line meets the floor; that's the drain rough in. Measure 2 inches away from the drain rough in and tub, and then 4 inches left and right from that spot; that's the supply line rough in.
• Always follow all manufacturer's instructions. Make sure that you have accurate dimensions for the tub before roughing in. Use a carpenter's level to ensure that the tub is even. If necessary, place coasters beneath the tub feet to prevent movement and/or protect the floor.