How to Install a Bathtub...Acrylic Kohler Archer (Step-by-Step)

[@kennywicks3059]

To anyone watching and thinking, “haha, dude is out of breath!” You’re not alone. I was giggling at it and commenting about it to my wife. Then I installed my tub per this video. I totally get it. Lots of heavy breathing and sweating. Great video! Thanks for posting this! It helped me a great deal!!!!

[@jeremywatts2768]

My fiberglass tub weighs 70lbs. I hade to build a frame to hold it up 12 inches while I piled in the mortar so that me and the wife could drop it vertically and embed the mortar. I took that thing out of the alcove by myself 20+ times trying to make sure it was all perfect. Its a nervous workout in a small hot room trying not to chip or drag that brittle fiberglass.

[@breco1it]

Used this video to negotiate with my contractor on a new acrylic tub installation (specifically on the mortar vs no mortar) after removing a cast iron tub. My main concern was how it would be supported. Plastic is not iron. The video definitely helped me as a client/consumer understand what they are doing/not doing. Also liked how straight forward the filming was. Super job!

[@mattcramer3648]

So thankful for the videos you guys make! As a fellow Pittsburgher, I often run into the same exact problems. Thank you so much!!

[@youdagoob]

I had a new tub in new construction where the overflow leaked like a sieve due to improper installation and the tub spout has at least a 1/4 in gap ...after installation by a "professional". Those are the things that make me do things myself. This is one of the few bathtub install videos that actually cover the overflow and drain PVC construction and the mortar bed. Thanks.

[@davidmangan3790]

This is one of the better videos I've seen to help me in a diy install.

[@billr7056]

Install a level 1x4 cleat along the back wall studs and dry-fit the tub first. Most install instructions provide the under rim to floor dimension. Mix the mortar looser and push the tub down until it rests on the front apron and cleat in the back. Do not step in the tub before the bedding mortar sets up or you may create a void between the top of the mortar bed and the tub bottom.

[@treystills]

kohler does not recommend a cleat to be installed with this tub. However, I'm sure it wont hurt. Would recommend placing a heavy bead of silicon on top of cleat when installing tub.

[@kdlittlehawk]

@@treystills recommended or not, cleat it ! jeesh

[@miketate8554]

Actually.......

[@DanA-ix7ms]

I didn't step on the floor for a shower install I did and ended up with a slight high spot. I will always use a stiff mortar mix and step around to ensure that the mortar isn't pushing up the floor. Not going to jump up and down or pound on it, but stepping to set it is something I will always do. A cleat works on a tub that was made level for it, but many manufacturers don't cast or grind the underside precisely, so it is difficult to level a cleat on remodels or new installs where there is no access to both sides of an open stud wall.

[@gavinonealjenbury6736]

Great Video, thank you. I had the exact same tub installed (by a professional) without a mortar bed. During remaining construction, it cracked at the rim from the (framed in) wall to the tub wall, all the way through. When I contacted Kohler they advised the mortar bed is very important due to the stresses on the acrylic, which makes sense. If the stress starts at the bottom of the tub (when not set in mortar) and then transferred all the way up to the ledge it might (and did in my case) meet its maximum tensile strength and crack. 3 attempts as repair with epoxy were quick fails. I now believe that if a mortar bed was used to remove the stress level in the base, a large downward stress on the rim might have held up (there is no sign of impact). There was also a few cracks around the screws mounting the tub to the studs which is a sign of another stress (not shimmed). I agree with using this video and other's experience to make sure it is done right!

[@Brandon91161]

Using a mortar bed under a tub (even an acrylic) is not standard as most tubs come with a support system from the manufacturer. Not having this support system is like buying a table without legs... With that said, there are some tubs that require a mortar bed because the manufacturer did not provide a support system for their tub. Additionally, a ledger board should be installed along the long edge of the tub as when you get in and out of the tub this is what you will use to support your weight and not doing so can lead to cracking or flexing along the long back side of the tub.

[@adamburnett4644]

Amazing video! This is the exact tub in the exact setting I needed to know about. You took your time to explain it for a DIYer and now I feel both confident and excited to tackle the job. I’ll be checking out all your other videos too. Thanks!

[@selectedvideos6180]

I was going to say the same thing - we're getting the same tub, and we have a 100 year old "nothing is square" house. This was a VERY informative video. So was the Kerdi board video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYXJY5p9Yq9gpZo

[@619elm]

First off, mucho thanks to you for making a video as thorough as this was and dos muchos for having a guy like Steve to do the walk through and being clear with what he's doing, why and then showing us how it's done at a "pro speed" fast pace. That would have taken me 3 days but he did it practically before lunch. I really need to step my game up. LOL

[@truth6600]

I always put a backing rail on rear wall,never nail or screw drip ledge.

[@DonHoward-m6k]

Great educational video that gave me everything I need to do an installation correctly. Thank you.

[@randybusse1206]

Thanks, I thought it to be very well explained. I fell a lot more confident.

[@menchelke]

I came here to watch, because I will be installing a tub in the near future, ie, hopefully within a year, but anyways, the silicone had me cracking up. My late uncle taught me the wonders of silicone, and how I can do all things through silicone which strengthens me. A plumber after my own heart!

[@TW-il4vy]

MUST NOTE!!!! According to the manufacturer, the Mapei 4 to 1 mortal mix isn't supposed to be used directly on top of wood/OSB subfloor. The mortar mix is supposed to be used on top of concrete or at least prep the wood surface with polymer modified tile mortar before placing the cement mix on top or it'll crack and wont bond to the wood. You should never pound/step in the tub that'll create a gap and the mud mix should be direr than presented for proper installation.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

just to clarify, we did speak with Mapei today about this installation and it brought up a lot of good technical questions. It definitely helps to add a 1/4" x 1/4" bond coat with modified thin-set mortar, e.g. Mapei's Ultraflex LFT. Then set the 4-to-1 mud bed mix on top. The issue we have with not stepping in the tub is the concern of not having the tub properly set in the mud bed. We've never had an issue with this methodology. That said, we're always open to new concepts and respect an open dialogue about installation techniques. So thank you for bringing this up.

[@TW-il4vy]

@@HomeRepairTutor This might help clarify the potential issues. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n2rOp2aEjKaIbsk

[@lenaely6146]

Fun watching you work 😁 typically, unless you are a part of the crew, one could never see such up close craftsmanship and get so many details explained calmly along the way 💆😁🤭🙏👌✨

[@atstupenas]

Sweet Jesus you've never actually seen craftsmanship if you think this clown is good

[@bradsmith584]

I agree with Steve 100% on the silicone. I do the same thing. I also use silicone on new Construction windows just for the extra insurance.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Brad Smith silicone is great for plumbing, gives me more faith the job will last

[@jc51373]

Guy is good, I'll give him that. This is a much bigger job than you think.

[@joeambartsumyan7259]

You also never step in the tub after leveling with a mortar bed. The bottom will flex and push the mortar away. You leave it alone for the mortar to set.

[@HB-yq8gy]

Thanks, Steve i had to uninstall the tub because it wasn't level enough. The mortar bed worries me leaning towards self-leveling plus I'm only a 1/8 off in the back & limited access to the drain & overflow.

[@billr7056]

21:23 He just undid his work by stepping into the tub. The tub will flex and push mortar down and then flex back up creating a void in the process.

[@christopherguthrie6914]

That was my thought watching it too.

[@djtheg6819]

It's a fiberglass tub, not acrylic. Does not flex nearly as much as a plastic tub. His larger screw up was not having a clear under the sides. If someone steps on the edges, it's going to crack.

[@cuskit]

@@djtheg6819 No, its a Kohler acrylic tub.

[@anthonygilchriest2200]

I love the videos! Very informative! Great work. One request. Steve, wear breathing protection! Dust and insulation fibers and fumes from PVC glue are really hard on your lungs!

[@ebreedon]

Within a few minutes of listening, I could tell yinz were from SW Pennsylvania.

[@michaelvanderveerdebondt3361]

Great video. Just what I needed to know since I'm installing a Kohler Acrylic tub just like that one . Thanks

[@jonathang1774]

Thanks guys! Awesome content and excellent advice. I haven't ever installed a new acrylic bathtub and this covered all the areas I had questions about. I really appreciate the high quality details discussed. They will improve my installation! I am also very impressed with the fast pace and high level of meaningful content. Your videography was great and Steve's work is the best!

[@Margaux01101]

Excellent explanations and great to see someone working through any issues that arise with levelling.

[@javaTL]

dang mate... wiping a solvent cement joint with your finger! never seen that before.

[@TKDForms]

Super helpful! I will be hiring pros to do the install but I wanted to understand the details so that I could fully understand the pieces and the process. Thanks!

[@HomeRepairTutor]

glad to help, what kind of tile are you installing?

[@sevbait]

Hi, I know this video is really old, but what about insulating the tub? Is it only worthwhile if using a cast iron or steel tub? Thanks.

[@RJ-nn1lo]

Very detailed with a lot of time & stress saving tips. thanks !

[@jasonkaminski6230]

Great video! I noticed you typically choose to install a ledger board on these tubs but not on this one. I also noticed that most manufacturers do not suggest a ledger board. Why is that?

[@jeremywatts2768]

Just set a Kohler Expanse LHD 32x60. It has 4 wimpy 2" pvc feet embedded in the fiberglass sled. I had really split hairs over the leveling and had it perfectly shimmed on the feet. The floor is plywood in an alcove. Leveling on shims seems to be a waste of time if you use mortar. I really dont think anyone should just glue this one down. Mixed quickrete mortar mix until it was about the consistency of packed brown sugar and very dry. Broke my damn mixer arm. Try splitting a 60lb bag in two buckets next time. Laid down a sheet of plastic in the center and then used 12+ softball-sized piles/balls around the feet and distributed around the center. Tried to keep it from directly under the feet since they should land on shims....but they didn't. I got to a 1/4 gap at the apron (dry fit had no gap) and couldnt push it any more and it was dead level. Popped my flange screws in the pre-drilled and beveled/countersunk holes and let it sit for a day. DO NOT fill it with water because there can be minor flex you cant see when you think its stiff. Have somebody step in it while you're looking under during dry fit and you'll see a few mm of flex. During setting, I had to lift it twice but "reset" the balls so that they ensure contact. It now feels like its sitting on a concrete slab. I'll use composite shims on the apron and apply silicone to seal the edge. Kohler says to use silicone on the seals. You can use putty on the drain flange, but make sure you use non-staining type. I'm doing silicone. I'll have access to the back and drain in the future if I have to remediate anything. Its weird to see it float, but its solid and I've been stepping in it since...and I'm no featherweight. I just hope it holds up with its 60gal of water capacity. I spent a lot of time boxing in the subfloor joists with screwed and glued blocking. I know where I'm hiding during the next hurricane.

[@saltysailor3246]

Your gasket slips out because you are greasing it with silicone sealant. For this reason you should only be using the silicone sealant on one side of your flange. this should be on the tub side of the gaskets to make up for any imperfections on the surface.

[@jimstephens9491]

This is a wonderful tutorial, that I will use in my Habitat houses and avoid split tubs. Thanks for detailed procedures and very useful thoughts.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Jim Stephens wonderful, glad this will help 👍

[@drewbabydrew7742]

No wonder you lost your hair jim. Milking cows too long love Habitual bitchin house repairs group

[@ShiaGirl18]

Thank you for the video! I love it when people do things properly by triple checking. Thank you very much. Someone understands precision.

[@JerodMatlock]

The guy Steve was very skilled - nice video.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Jerod Matlock he's fantastic and has a great profile over on Houzz...but only does work north of Pittsburgh 👍

[@ericbenton5739]

What is steve"s last name or his company name? I live north of pittsburgh and have some work that needs done

[@HomeRepairTutor]

Eric Benton his company is SRW Contracting. Here's his site www.srwcontractinginc.com What kind of work do you need?

[@ericbenton5739]

coincidentally I just purchased a kohler archer 60x32 tub and I stumbled on this video. Changing a shower stall to full bath shower. Carpentry is about done and I was going to try to do this myself, but after watching this may consider a pro.

[@joe7665]

Jerod Matlock you can tell he was seasoned thats fir sure.... he did a nice job

[@dispatch156]

OMG HOLLY SILICONE, as a plumber i can tell you with 100% certanty that you are NOT supposed to use silicone specially on the drain and overflow, but you know on the other hand go ahead and do you, job security for me and other plumbers

[@bigalhague]

Kohler specifically states in the instructions to use silicone on those rubber gaskets.. Although they say to use plumbers putty on the main drain top side

[@daneedmonds675]

SILICONE IS PAINT. It is not a sealer, that foam rubber gasket is the sealer.

[@Thankfast]

Thanks!

[@Thankfast]

Great video, guys! Now I understand how it is that some people on the product reviews report problems with this type of tub cracking - the details matter to get it right, which you guys did a great job of showing and explaining. Question: I'd like to have a toe-tap pop up drain on my Kohler acrylic tub, instead of the lever type. Do you know if those are pretty universal in terms of how they would fit the drain hole? The tub we're looking at is a Kohler Bancroft alcove tub - similar to the Archer, but an older design. Thanks!

[@HomeRepairTutor]

Thank you Tom 🙏🏼 -Jeff

[@tonyf944]

Some advice from a licensed plumber , pipe rector seal and plumbers puddy is what your suppose to use on your drain assemblies not silicone. the expansion and contraction of the PVC will crack that silicone overtime like butter

[@thirteenthgrade508]

I’m installing this tub with drain soon. The instructions say to use silicone on overflow and drain but also use putty on drain.

[@briandjordjevic9969]

Silicone is fine for the overflow plumbers putty for the drain

[@megankimble7497]

Plumbers putty will harm the acrylic tub.

[@keithtomczyk4730]

@@megankimble7497 WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG. There is an acrylic compatable non staining putty.

[@pvb9964]

@@keithtomczyk4730 yes....silicone

[@keithtomczyk4730]

@@pvb9964 for the overflow ,yes Drain =putty

[@OOpSjm]

rubber or silicone gasket is what most kits ship with these days

[@BillyBob-dl3zc]

Great work. Thank you. We already have ours cleaned out to the studs. Just needed a little guidance and hints on what to look for to put the tub in. This really helps. I never considered the mud bed but it makes sense on why to use it!

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Billy Bob glad it helped 👍

[@PalmTree-r2g]

Great job. I was thinking about using cement board underneath the plywood since my current subfloor under whirlpool tub has some rot. Is 1.2 inch plywood subfloor good enough to place whirlpool tub on?

[@thatcrazyyankee]

Great video. Thanks for the walkthrough

[@patrickgrimes8964]

If I understand this correctly he used the mapei 4 to 1 mud bed mix to not only set tub in but as a leveling method as well since I didn't see him use any shims etc but only the cement mix. I guess he doesn't like setting tub in plaster of paris like the old timers used to do. Maybe this special mud mix is superior.

[@johnhenryholiday4964]

I love the idea of using silicone sealer on the tub shoe.... I have tried it and its not to good however with the rubber o-ring ... they always squeeze out

[@Methodical2]

What method do you suggest to secure a Kohler tub (Elmbrook) with 4 feet where the bottom of the tub doesn't make contact with the floor? Thanks...

[@whattheschmidt]

I am installing this tub in a week, instructions say 1-2" mortar bed (where the feet aren't though). I plan on making a bit bigger mortar bed than in this video for mine to make sure it's supported well.

[@MrMartinezOLMS]

@@whattheschmidt How did the install go? I have the same tub and am curious. Installing this weekend.

[@whattheschmidt]

@@MrMartinezOLMS mine went well, I did a slightly more watery mix so it would squish when placing it, used a bit more mortar and put it between the legs on to of plastic for easy removal in 50 years. I did a dry fit to mark on the studs where the tub would go and where the legs go.

[@KarenCookKC]

Thank you I really wanted an answer to the tile part 🙏

[@HomeRepairTutor]

what's your tile question?

[@KarenCookKC]

@@HomeRepairTutor I should have said you answered my tile question 👍 I have a heritage home and the hardwood on the floor and I was really worried about it you know cracking or breaking so now I know I can't use it yay lol

[@HomeRepairTutor]

@@KarenCookKC excellent, happy the video was helpful :)

[@ikust007]

Splendide vidéo. Thank you ! Question: my first layer is also planks. The floor is , naturally irregular (0-3/8 gap from one end to the other one, with laser). Want to screw all old planks to joist, use PL after with 3/4 plywood. And use self levelling so I can put Ditra Heat. Self leveling necessary? Ok

[@rodorchardphotography]

just curious. should you fill the tub with water to help it set on the mortar bed? thoughts on using spray foam instead of mortar( due to weight)?

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Rod Orchard Photography instructions call for mortar, so that's the best option for warranty purposes. We didn't fill the tub with water but did secure it to the studs since it's acrylic and the screws could be drilled through the tub lip

[@lewwoodthing]

I think the plywood will suck the water from the mortar and will shrink away from the tub. I think the spray foam would be best if no tar paper is used. Set the tub dry, then reach in both ends with a couple cans of Great stuff foam. The mortar is going to shrink.

[@coryp3896]

be careful with the great stuff. it is low density (1lb/cft or less) for it not to give over time, use at least 5lb density foam. this only comes in pour (2 part) or pro spray, no aerosol cans. also, if you you an adhesive foam, good luck getting the tub out later.

[@Parkinwad]

Awesome explanation guys. I came here to find out the best type of mortar to use to set the tub, as I am helping my plumber on a house rebuild set the tub, and I'm supplying materials. Great information and keep up the good work! You deserve the almost half a million views you've received as the information is spot on! Thanks again!

[@josephcastille9946]

Mortar mix. Type N or S.

[@gemtianleon]

Hello super good video but I have a problem all the plumbing is on the concrete foundation and the drain is located on the brick block (south florida constructions) I don't have access behind the wall to attach a drain like you in your video, I don't know if I need to attach everything to the drain fittings and then install the bath hahaha DIY! ( the old bathtub is 30" the new is 32", all the plumbing is all ready moved , any advice is welcome!!

[@jamesmckelvey8393]

Can you go to the next step and show us the plumbing for the tub/shower? Any photos of the finished job?

[@Rando_Commando]

Best DIY videos for sure

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Randy Nachoman Savage thanks man. Totally appreciate your kind words

[@budt525]

Would it be better to level the tub first, take it back out and then do your mortar and fit your tub back in?

[@HomeRepairTutor]

Yes, the floor should be level as much as possible before setting the mortar. But ultimately that tub needs to be spot on level to drain properly

[@fmart3617]

Structolite work great under tub beds.

[@booziebeard3997]

I need whatever that dude has. Hes to got damn happy.

[@johnturner6651]

Installed an acrylic tub and have some squeak issues at drain end. Wonder how to stabilize existing installation without removing tub. No mortar involved. Used 2X4 and bolted that to tub and floor. only minimal side to side movement at drain end. Want to re.-brace so as to eliminate movement & squeaking. Thinking better placement of 2x4s. Any suggestions? JT

[@tzzzz20]

Should the feet of this tub be on the floor or in the mortar. My floor is about about 3/8 off front front to back. Plus i guess you want the moor off the plywood the is attached to the tub on this model. The limbers came to install this model today and had problems not getting it to wobble. By the way the wanted to use Joint compound.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

the front of the tub for the Archer should be touching the solid plywood or OSB, the mud bed mix is there to provide a solid backing for the middle of the tub but the tub itself should be level before being screwed to the studs...also, pre-drill the tub flange so it doesn't crack

[@tzzzz20]

@@HomeRepairTutor My tub has three long feet same as the one you installed in the video. The center one is higher 1/4 than the two outside ones. Tub will not lay flat but wobbles side to side. Plumber thinks it defective. Thoughts

[@appleztooranges]

Can you do an update on the corner tub you did 6 years ago? You use kerdi band

[@gloriasilence]

Water appears to be seeping out from under the tub when we shower/bathe... What's the fix? Thank you...🤗

[@joeambartsumyan7259]

23 year plumber here. Everything was fine except for the silicone on the tub shoe gasket and overflow gasket. Those gaskets are made to be replaceable after the tub is installed. Gluing them down like that has multiple negative effects. For one like what happened in the video, the gasket wants to slip out when you tighten the tub shoe down. But the biggest issue is when that gasket deteriorates over time and needs to be replaced, it’s glued on both sides which is going to leave silicone residue on both the tub and the tub shoe. It’s also going to be difficult to remove the gasket. Skip the silicone!

[@stevehammond7485]

and... I don't think you should use silicone under the drain on the tub finished side. That should be plumber's putty.

[@ByDesign333]

Learned some useful stuff...but DO protect your precious 😎 eyeballs guys...2 windows to the world is all we get! 🙈 What i taught my sons.

[@steves_garage]

I agree, but I've observed that most workers hardly ever use protective gear probably because it just adds to the number of tools they have to keep track of, and would also be uncomfortable in hot places. I don't do jobs like this for a living so when I do I always use goggles, masks, etc. Makes for less irritation on the body.

[@pradhanbalter3796]

Curious as to why no stringer was used to ensure level. Is this optional? Not necessary at all? Thanks for another great video.

[@davidreynaga5037]

Did he have to walk on top of the unprotected surface of the tub.?

[@kdlittlehawk]

No !!!!!!! , total hack job right there. Very unprofessional. Sorry but true.

[@corystansbury]

Still has the plastic on it. It's fine.

[@chantalrochon3566]

Great information! Thank you both for your expertise!

[@joecburke]

My Mirabelle bathtub instructions recommends installing "stringers", lengths of wood that underlie and support the three alcove wall sections of the tub, and NOT to drill through the lip of the tub, but to install screws and washers over the lips. Why do you use no stringer? BTW, I installed a Kohler previously and they recommended installing stringers as well.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+J Burke every bathtub is different and should be installed per the directions. Kohler doesn't require a stronger for this Archer model. It's set in mortar, which provides a solid base for the tub. In case you're interested here are the instructions www.us.kohler.com/webassets/kpna/catalog/pdf/en/1084213_2.pdf

[@deanb949]

I also am concerned at his process of DRILLING through the lip instead of using fender washers above the lip. Drilling will decrease the waterproofing. After experiencing water damage, I want ALL the watershed possible.

[@MrFishmanP]

Can the tub drain be installed without having access from the ceiling below? If so, how is that done? Also, if you are connecting into an ABS trap, is Kohler's brass Clearflo drain preferable to the PVC version in a situation where you don't have access from below (and in areas where the ABS to PVC glue isn't code compliant)? Thanks!

[@jonathangerman671]

For Tile - Do you put the backer board along the top of the flange, on top of the flange, behind the flange. What?

[@Synchrimedia]

would you make the 2 ends slightly high on the outer side so that water doesn't run out onto the floor? or would you also make the 2 ends level?

[@ernestogonzalez4684]

What kind of screws are you using for the tub

[@rogerslawncare7260]

A little off topic but what type of boots does he have on I like the rubber toe protection.??

[@HomeRepairTutor]

those are Keen's, very comfortable boot

[@juliaalcorn3474]

You mean toe caps

[@jetman4774]

suggestions for the plumbing when i dont have access to the other side or underneath?

[@mhn...]

It's a challenge (sometime nightmare lol :P) working with old houses!Great video guys!!Thanks for sharing the informations!

[@lenaely6146]

Question: @19:37, I would like/want a membrane/waterproofed material (like waterproofing cement board with redguard or something similar) on that wall to attach the tub to. Why didn't you include that? Or am I just going beyond necessary by desiring to include the waterproofing typical for a shower install? Beyond necessary, or is that supposed to be attached on top of the tub flange?

[@albertopatino7244]

Thanks for great video. I suck in this kind of work. I really admire your work guys. Thanks again.

[@peterweikel7123]

It would be so nice to just remove some boards and have actual room to work. I would be curious of the process when your drains dont line up and the pipes run thru concrete and under structural supports where you have little to no room for easy fixes like flex pipe and angled fittings

[@gasousman]

I want to do a drop in tub but the tub I have is 45 centimeters from the floor on one end, and 44 on the other end. Should i use shims on the bath cradle?

[@mycats7321]

Do you know if it's possible to order just the slip nut that has some pivot to it somewhere? I love how he used tons of silicone to prevent leaks & then goes with ABS to PVC which could end up leaking. LOL. I wonder if a ferco fitting with silicone would have worked in that situation. :P This was very interesting. It came up when I was looking at how to do a mortar bed, but I found myself watching the entire video and enjoyed it. Thank you!

[@lwarneka10]

Great video. Some don't use the mortar in their videos. Must be a mistake. Mine is a complete fiberglass bath and shower , one unit. When you connected the plumbing it looked like the P trap was sideways? Where is the P trap?

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

24:05 it's hard to see since it's black pipe but the p-trap is connected to the white vertical pipe from the tub.

[@youngtimer7531]

I put in an acrylic tub. The front bottom continues to move. I tried a very good silicone bead along the bottom front and it came loose. Any suggestions?

[@Bedianamight1]

I wonder why a ledger board wasn't applied-installed prior to setting the tub?...

[@Lilmiket1000]

Very nice video!

[@karend.9218]

Those gobs of silicone trap crud that will mildew. If I saw that buildup inside my brand new tub, I’d be hella mad at this trade. Won’t matter how much you wipe it around, it just smears.

[@cnsuth67]

Great video. Getting ready to install an acrylic tub. What’s the best way to level my subfloor? Doesn’t seem like you can shim the Kohler tub. Thanks

[@HomeRepairTutor]

if the subfloor isn’t level we recommend inspecting the joists for structural damage. Then sistering new 2x material to old joists and leveling the structure. But you can also self level with Ardex Liquid BackerBoard or Laticrete NXT leveler. But there are several other steps like priming they floor and adding 1/8” perimeter joints that are very important

[@MyGoogleYoutube]

Isn't the beauty of a two inch thick mortar bed? You place the tub into it and then level the tub in the bed of mortar. So a mildly unlevel subfloor shouldn't be an issue.

[@brandiatl21]

@Home Repair Tutor Do you all have detailed video that steps through the prep and pour of the self-leveling compound, specifically including where to end the long bounding edge for an apron front/alcove tub? Please provide link. Note: I’m interested in the 60” x 30” or 60” x 32” Left-drain Kohler Archer Alcove Tub in Acrylic and intended to simply use a mortar bed to address the difference and ensure proper support.

[@tonythetonytone3070]

Seeking advice. I cracked/chipped my acrylic tile flange while installing my alcove tub. I pre-drilled the holes but didnt use the right screw resulting in some fine crack around the screw head. Am i ok to proceed with the wallboard? or do i need to repair these/replace the tub? Anyone whos experienced this would love to hear from you. Regards. Tony Tone

[@adamswaz4878]

Use a fender washer

[@lorios6249]

when installing motar bed; he says 2" thick and of course all tubs aren't the same, but also noticed this tub has an OSB base for support from apron half way to center but, some have an OSB all the thru the bottom. My question is would the entire OSB area be covered or just down the center?

[@judgelpf2488]

2" thick....only way to be sure of the correct measurement for your tub is from the installation manual. It will have every dimension you need. Some tubs are below the floor R.O. and others are 2"-3" above the floor R.O. In my 16 years and 3000 bathroom later, 3" is what has always worked for me.

[@yuriyus4634]

Great video. But I did not see what did you do with those two pieces of plywood attached to the bottom. Did you remove them before installing on mortar, or may be you put mortar a little bis a side and it did not go under plywood. Also when you put tub on mortar bed does it goes all the way down to the subfloor or it is a little bit raised on mortar? I have a special case. I am installing 19" tub next to window and have only 21 1/2 " of the wall. So I need every millimeter of that space to set up tile.

[@HomeRepairTutor]

+Yuriy Us we followed the Kohler directions (in terms of the wood) and the tub rested on top of the mortar, so it was raised. Keep in mind the finished floor, it should cover the gap between the tub and subfloor.

[@lewwoodthing]

Why not use 30lb. felt/tar paper as a vapor barrier over the entire sub floor as well as under the tub? I think he works a bit TOO FAST for me.

[@wesbooth829]

Ive never had the balls to screw into a tub or showerpan lip. Some manufacturers say to do it but i still havent done it. It has always frightened me

[@knottreel]

If you needed to remove the tub someday, how hard would it be to free it from the mortar?

[@tomduval4262]

Well done!

[@migueltmoi7687]

I have a question how much do you do hold shower

[@josevilca6493]

very good explanations how to install of the tub. I study plumbing , I still work in plumbing , in new home and civil work, . thanks a lot for you knowledge and skill and purpose given to us.. jose Vilca

[@kdlittlehawk]

Do you cover that new tub or just walk all over it unprotected ? Total hackjob IMO

[@paypatay1]

I installed this tub. 3 years later a huge Crack appears in the back. Turns out they are crap tubs. Numerous people have them split open under normal use. Kohler should issue a recall.

[@RichMed1a]

I just installed a fiberglass tub, the procedures are very similar. For those who are whining about using plumbers putty for the drain, the manufacturer of my tub states that using plumbers putty voids the warrantee. Use 100% silicone only. I don't think I'd worry about it much for the over-flow though. I've never once seen a tub overflow, it serves mostly as a vent. Failure to screw through the flange to the stud directly with stainless screws also voids the warrantee. I personally have no issue with using galvanized pan heads. I also wanted to use a ledger board, but it was not required, and would have been impossible to use for my tub at any rate. There was an OSB brace glassed in extending from the end of the tub to almost half-way along the wall side. The ledger board thing was mostly for the cheap steel and enamel tubs which no one sells much these days. I actually pulled a previous new install, where the tub was pushed up against the drywall. I'm thankful that he did not use any adhesive on the feet or screws in the flange. I had to re-work everything, including the framing.

[@poepflater]

baby wipes work great for cleaning up silicone

[@richibalero5109]

Great video

[@brandonfisher5372]

Good vid but why didnt you do support cleets?

[@JustinB-fk1rq]

what should the height of the knee wall be? I am installing the exact same tub. Thanks.

[@johnpaulpatton9786]

If a tub was improperly installed and there is a gap between the tub and mortar, what is the best way to repair? Just moved into a house and the tub flexes when stepped into.

[@rideordie1583]

John Paul Patton they probably didn’t use mortar.

[@treystills]

Obtain access to the underside of the tub. Fill voids with non-expanding foam.

[@grwicky]

What do you do if you cannot access the plumbing (P trap) from below?

[@rockygrewal7182]

sometimes you have to glue everything together and drop the tub down onto the carefully measured and glued in plumbing. If everything is in the correct place you just putty or silicone the drain into the threaded plumbing below and secure the overflow from the inside of the tub.

[@aftermathexperts3068]

@@rockygrewal7182 sounds sketchy af. i need more explanation. thanks

[@richardfiorentino3951]

Great video thank you