How To Install A Freestanding Tub And Faucet

[@webtutorials4279]

Great video as always Josh! I prefer your videos because they are very detailed. Kindly keep them long and detailed like this forever. Can't wait to see a bedroom closet/cupboard video soon. Hope that is in the pipeline as well.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you! I do try to keep everything as detailed as possible. Yes I do have a bedroom closet video. Coming up soon. Stay tuned. Thanks for watching!

[@David-nc1mp]

Where did you install the Thermostatic control valve? Code requirement where I live and I think all of US. The inspector told me most people tap off the sink plumbing for the freestanding tub water supply so the thermostatic valve for the tub is installed in the bathroom vanity. Just having the mechanical hot water stop at the tub filler doesn't pass inspection. There must be a valve to stop the flow of hot water if the cold water is lost. I am curious because I need to find a place for the valve. My tub is on a concrete slab floor, my walls are all closed, tiled and the floor is tiled. I have the same tub filler you have. I am looking at modifying it so I can mount the thermostatic valve on the wall behind the tub out of sight as much as possible. I will drill holes in the tub filler tower so I can route the water lines to and from the thermostatic valve. Inspector told me he would be ok with that but I am searching for better ideas. Yes the inspector should have caught this at rough in inspection before I closed the floor and walls, but they didn't.

[@jpachon100]

Very good video I was kind of scare to do the installation but now after I watch your video I feel very confident thanks for a complete installation specially connect the water supply’s to the lines hot and cold

[@andrewnygren7131]

I can definitely tell that you are enjoying making the videos and your editing is even better. Keep it up! You help a lot of people!

[@JoryBlake]

I did mine after watching this video and it turned out perfect, I'm stoked!

[@tonyaburnside1037]

I got it out my bathroom and I am fixing to do this so I really needed this. I also need to move my drain valve a little bit over.

[@davidharrison3074]

That faucet is pretty nice. I saw that it has a 360° swivel capability. Pretty nice feature as well. I've had a tub that had adjustable legs on it to level if needed.(which I put a little bit of teflon tape the threads to keep them from moving) I always mention to not sit with all your weight on the sides or ends because the term, free standing although 100% silicone is used. Once cure, it is pretty secure but just be safe. Nice having free standing tubs in acrylic as well, but just get a good quality like this one. I've used the screw traps as well and with a drain plug in case a clog. I'll put a clean out if code allows in case a company has to snake the drain. Again, if code allows. Sweet looking unit and faucet. Great choice. Great job Josh 👍🏻👌🏼

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks, David! It does seem to be a nice set up. It does swivel and it’s nice to be able to move the head out of the way if you are in the tub. The feet under these seemed like they could be adjustable, but they were very tight, and I really didn’t want to risk breaking something. Yes the traps that are removable is the safest. My mom lost a ring down the sink one time and if it wasn’t for traps like this, it will still be down there more than likely lol. Thanks a lot for commenting on my video, David! I hope everything is going good with you. Take care.

[@davidharrison3074]

@@TheExcellentLaborer at least it stayed in the trap, after that, bye bye. Glad it was retrieved. I'll continue to enjoy and respond and hopefully help others as you do with informative comments. Never want to make someone feel less important. Always great to help and share views. Love reading others as well. 👍🏻

[@anonymouse7074]

Was waiting for a video from you on a freestanding tub!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Awesome! I’ll be on at 7:30 PM Eastern standard time for a live chat. See you then.

[@davidharrison3074]

Another thing with the tub is it has the overflow as well. I've seen a few with out it. The faucet company seems great about parts if needed. A ceramic cartridge is a good thing as well. Registering any product is important as well. I used products like this as well to help cost with a customer if needed. It's not an everyday unit and amazing how many people have them for looks and resale. Again, great job Josh. 👍🏻

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That’s good to know. Yes the overflow is definitely a safety net to cut down on any type of flooding that could occur. I’m not too familiar with the faucet brand I installed in this video. I will definitely have more insights the longer I own it. Thanks a lot David!

[@davidharrison3074]

@@TheExcellentLaborer always having a relationship with manufacturers is important. Yes, you could have paid a lot more for a big name brand, but also some specialty units like this and other products are great quality but the name isn't out there. I've installed German brand faucets that cost big bucks but bad customer service. Just like Price Pfister was made by Black and Decker ( a tool company) I am not sure if they still are but these companies I feel learn from the big name companies. Like Moen makes products for Lowe's and Home Depot, lesser value. And most of the time if you want better quality you have to special order. And then the other factor is the appearance. Sometimes customers like the look of something less expensive and it fullfils their needs. If you take care of even the lesser product it will last. You can spend $2,000 on a faucet or product and destroy it if it's misused

[@randolphrod9679]

Great video, just one thing, the union trap doesn't need teflon tape on the thread, but inside the concave and convex joints, a compound for plastics like blue monster is recommended.

[@ohmsweethohm7259]

Good video. I use to install them this way until OS&B came out with the island drain rough in kit. You should check it out some time it makes for an easier & more secure install.

[@johnnywilkinson9736]

Shims? Didn’t you notice the bath incorporated six adjustable plastic feet with locknuts?

[@showdaworld]

Awesome video! Right 2 the point.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it!

[@MsDQlandry]

I have a question, what is the best way to water proof the bottom of the faucet stack if water leaks behind the tub from the faucet or the wand as I’ve seen happening with my free standing tub. I’m actually getting water leaking through to my basement when I’m use.

[@tombob-vq5dm]

Was there any overflow on that particular tub, and did u install a vent somewhere ?

[@robertoquinteros8875]

thanks boddy it was really useful

[@johneverett957]

Could you do a video on roughing in and installing exterior wall mounted lights. Such as next to a door or garage door. Please cover box selection, waterproof or not. As well as surface mount lights and recessed lights. Include code protocol for the boxes. Thank you!

[@Mustang946]

Awesome video

[@ephraimgamolo3750]

Thank you Josh, do you need to install another drain near your tub for the water splashes?

[@neildesposito1492]

Great video

[@ridefitnation]

You are the man

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you I appreciate that!

[@cmm4456]

super cool

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you!

[@havoc35]

why are you shimming the feet when they are adjustable levelers that can be adjusted?

[@Justforfun-ek7et]

Thanks for the video, but where can I find those hot and cold water line extensions? I went to Lowe’s and couldn’t find them. Nor could I find the 1/2x3/8 shark bite or PEX connector. Was hoping to avoid waiting on shipping these items. Thanks again.

[@briangonzalez4662]

What a great video super helpful! If the tub drain is metal rather than pvc can I still use a PVC tailpiece or does it have to me a metal one as well? (Aka chrome tailpiece?)

[@joelphang7214]

How u reach the back with silicone

[@fredk3188]

Always enjoy your videos Josh! What brand of shower pan do you think is the best?

[@SirenaReign]

I live off grid in a shed and am thinking about saving up money for a freestanding tub but obviously since I won’t be able to permit my shed and it has no running water or solar power or Electricity, I know how to live rough but instead of bucket showering I wanted a upgrade just to sit and relax in water! I miss regular showers but, this would be a dream for me to have!! My question: “Would I just use a bucket to scoop out my water after each bath as clearly I won’t fill it up all the way but, how would I drain the water if it’s in a shed and I would not be able to drill a hole or connect a pipe for draining??” Is there any other simple way to draining out the bath water or should I just put the water to good use after like bathing my dogs too so I don’t waste the water since I don’t have any running water either or a flushing toilet? ❤ Ahh, Nevermind, I’ll just salvage the water after my baths for other chores I need. Dang, I’m my own best teacher! 😅

[@sonomafred]

No vent for the trap arm?

[@thejazzpianist25]

How do you do this on a concrete slab?

[@adamcampbell8794]

is the tub anchored to the floor or just sitting there? it seems lightweight for just caulk to hold it.

[@eltonnoway7864]

Nope no anchors other than silicone, Actually 100% Silicone caulk is an excellent adhesive and can provide a very strong bond.. however, there are many grades of silicone on the market so a strong bond depends on the grade of silicone used. Adding to the confusion are caulks with the word silicone in the name like silicone sealant or kitchen and bath silicone, or the compare to silicone acrylic polymer and/or polyurethane sealants. NET: Just be aware when it comes to silicone sealants not all of them are created equal. Many caulks advertised as Silicone caulk are heavily diluted. Make sure the one you use for this specific application is listed as being 100% Silicone. Rest assured. if applied around the perimeter of the tub as shown in this video.. it won't be going anywhere. TIP: Before adhering your tub to the floor with silicone, once all the drain connections are made fill the tub with a couple inches of water then drain it and check for leaks.

[@aaudain1]

Interesting 👍 ✋️

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks for watching Anthony!

[@yung-steve]

Hello new to the channel! Great stuff, I recently purchased a house that does not have ground wiring, so every outlet is 2 pronged. Could you do a video over installing ground wire onto the existing system?

[@benjamin3615]

Not worth it. That's high level electrician stuff and you're looking at removing all the drywall, rewiring, then replacing drywall and painting. I'm in the same position, house built in 1958, no ground wires. Instead of rewiring, I just replaced all my outlets with GCFI outlets. In the event of a surge, they trip like breakers and protect your equipment.

[@dennisgrant3504]

Will the caulk keep the tub from moving freely? I have a freestanding tub and I'm wondering what's the proper way to secure it to the floor.

[@eltonnoway7864]

Absolutely... as long as the caulk is 100% Silicone. Check the label. 100% Silicones are usually labeled as "NSF Certified Sealant / Adhesive". NOTE: Adhesive is the operative word! A properly applied bead at the base of the tub and it won't be going anywhere. TIP: Try using the tubs leveling feet rather that shims. First, crank the levelers in all the way so the tubs shell is resting on the floor. Then make the minimal adjustments as necessary to make the tub level. This keeps the gap at the floor as small as possible. (too much caulk can look unsightly)

[@av1204]

I see you build your homes mostly alone, how long does it take you to build a house from start to finish?

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Great question! Before I started recording the videos for KZbin and building, it would take me about a year to build a 1500 square-foot house. I hope that answers your question!

[@av1204]

@@TheExcellentLaborer definitely. Thanks for the info!

[@robrobbins7085]

Josh, I'm building a house that is slab on grade (no crawl space). Would it be impossible for me to install a tub like this with the drain under center? I could put the drain piping in place under the tub, but no way I could get under and tighten any connection. Also I noticed you used pipe thread paste, but didn't mention it. That stuff works great!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Rob! Good to hear you are building a house. It is very rewarding. What I would recommend in a case like that is a freestanding tub drop in rough in. You would literally just set the tub into it and you do not have to tighten anything after the fact. I hope that helps!

[@robrobbins7085]

@@TheExcellentLaborer thanks! So that is different plumbing? I'll have to look that up for sure.

[@ramiromuniz8327]

I have a freestanding faucet but for whatever reason only hot water works. We recently replaced the cartridge but that still didn't fix it. It's blazing hot water. Any idea what it could be? After watching your video I think the valve sub-floor might be closed.

[@LuisMartinez-oy9mr]

How would you install on concrete

[@wish2fish37]

How do I do this on a concrete floor?

[@followjesus-DAISYJO]

My freestanding tub is leaking. Could it be because they did not use putty at the drain? Also, the tub only touches the floor at each end. Will that be enough or should I do several layers of silicone caulk all the way around?

[@Sparx-l2x]

Mine started leaking and it was due to a crack in the gray drain pipe under the tub, seen in the video at 4:45. My plumber is still trying to find that part. Please share if you had the same problem and where you found replacement part.

[@jasondelgado9126]

Bro, why use shims when the feet are adjustable? And sharkbites?? Cmon bruh

[@mitcho88]

Seriously bruh

[@ervinlosha1333]

He is using sharkbite because it's easy in a tight spot. If done correctly, and left undisturbed, sharkbite seems very reliable

[@kingalphadogg]

@@ervinlosha1333shark byte has zero to do with shims and adjustable feet.

[@uutyable]

There will always be someone to criticize 🤦🏾‍♂️ . What’s wrong with sharkbites bro? They are great

[@jamesdylan4440]

I’ve used shark bites as needed past 15 years. Properly installed I have never seen one leak aside from toilet valves and they don’t go bad at shark bite they actually fail at the valve. And everyone I have repaired, they didn’t cut the plumbing square. Which resulted in not getting proper seal. I cut square and use same shark bite and back in business. Another prek is they are easily removed and new installed. No glue. No cutting. No mess

[@Royaliamandasher]

Hey I know it’s been a year ago but I had sent a message under the video a month ago. When you did the porch header beam with vinyl. When it was time to attach the beams how did you do that?

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

If you were talking about the faux beam that I did, the PVC boards(faux beam) was attached to a 2 x 6 nailer that was running across the porch trusses. So more or less it attached just like any other faux beam would. I hope that helps!

[@Royaliamandasher]

@@TheExcellentLaborer so if I am doing 4- porch columns how do I secure the top to the bottom of the faux beam? I know how to secure the bottom with some plates but not the top

[@jesswu0213]

How many pounds that free standing tub weight generally?? I try to get one in the future

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

If I had to guess I would say around 100 pounds. It’s not very heavy. This one seems to be well built. I hope that helps!

[@jesswu0213]

@@TheExcellentLaborer one more question,,,any adhesive needed to bond to floor??

[@davidharrison3074]

Josh is correct 100-110lbs. Well built and always follow proper directions for the installation and guidelines.

[@onecoolstorybro]

Nice video! Do i need to use both the glue and primer when gluing PVC or will the glue suffice? Thanks in advance.

[@underaveragegamers2325]

Always a good idea to prime before using glue.

[@MuffffinMan]

The primer is meant to soften the material in preparation for the glue. Without primer your taking a huge risk that the pipes won't bond together completely. Also make sure you using the right primer as there are different ones for pvc and abs

[@theswoldier]

Those floor mounted faucets are notorious for leaking.. Or is it just the wand? Any brands that dont leak?

[@eltonnoway7864]

In the majority of cases its the wand. A properly and carefully installed floor mount isn't the problem. The primary issue is... after using the wand there is water still in the hose. So even though the hose water supply valve is closed, once the wand is placed back into its holder, water in the hose can slowly siphon (i.e. dribble) out of the wand spray head and run down the "outside of the hose and puddle on the floor which is typically next to the free standing base. Many people assume the water near the base is the floor mount leaking. The fix or workaround, although not perfect, is... "if" you used the wand spray hose, don't hang it back up right away but instead place the wand 'in" the tub so its lower than the valve so the wand hose can drain

[@zizibe218]

does the overflow drain slit have to be on the same side as the faucet? seems like my plumber installed my tub backwards -_-

[@Saltcracker007]

It doesn’t have to be, it’s totally preference.

[@eltonnoway7864]

Some people prefer to position the tub so the overflow slit is not visible when you walk in and view the room or viewing the tub.

[@rayndalrenfrow]

Make sure to check your plumbing code. Most do not allow sharkbites in crawlspaces anymore as they are not "easily accessible". So, just be safe and crimp your shutoff valves in the crawlspace so you know you will not have a leak you can't see. But you can use sharkbite shut off valves if it is inside like for your toilet shut off or sink shutoff. Just as long as you can get to it. Plus those look better than a copper ring showing. Also, there's feet on the tub that you can adjust so you don't have to use shims. Because now you only have one foot on that side holding all the weight of a tub full of water. And the tub is fiberglass and acrylic. Just sayin...

[@MrTooTechnical]

Great vid. On your introduction take a deep breath and slow down. Thx.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Dave. I appreciate the input!. Thanks for watching. Take care!

[@nogstube]

The tub has six or seven levelers built into it. Tip the tub back and back them off or tighten in as needed. Not sure why you are using door shims to level?

[@easyBob100]

Why shim the tub when you can adjust the feet?

[@drsg9124]

Previous owner of my house installed an off brand free standing filler. Now it's leaking from the water mixer and I can't get a replacement gasket or o ring for it and will need to rip out the dry wall from underneath to replace it. Totally infuriating that I can't fix this damn thing. Going to replace it with name brand one that actually supplies replacement parts

[@eltonnoway7864]

Yep, a ton of no-name tub fillers are coming out of China. Replacing it could turn into a big job. The majority of free standing tub fillers (cheap or otherwise) are attached just beneath the floor to a "rough in outlet/valve" A new tub filler will have its own rough-in valve assembly so removing the old one and installing the new one will require some plumbing modifications.☹

[@philipzanoni]

You don't need 3 inch screws for 3/4" sub floor

[@luanahaigood278]

The leg screws out to level

[@stephenc4161]

Adjustable feet?? No need shims.

[@andyallen1772]

S-trap is not allowed in the building code.

[@javieracosta5528]

Why are you shimming it when the legs are clearly adjustable?

[@seanmoon1444]

The legs aren’t self leveling????

[@eltonnoway7864]

Many of the big box (i.e, less expensive) tubs have have rubber feet attached to adjustable threaded legs with lock nuts that need to be adjusted individually. Some of the higher priced soaker tubs do in fact come with self-leveling" feet but I wouldn't pay extra for them. Yes, they save a little time on installation but once you leveled the tub and siliconed it in place the jobs done.

[@Oreo_my_Boxador]

Home owner will find out why is only 1/3 of the price soon.. When cartridge start failing.. And then you can’t find one..

[@byronsteez8253]

Where's the vent for that tub? Angle stops and steel braided supply lines must be in readily accessible locations and under a house does not qualify. Sharkbites? Geez louise

[@tombob-vq5dm]

I agree with the braided lines, but what's wrong with sharkbite connections ?? I don't trust them in a wall, but in the crawl space, they are perfectly fine!

[@byronsteez8253]

@@tombob-vq5dm your trust in sharkbites is like my trust in women. I trust them as long as I can see them!

[@tombob-vq5dm]

@@byronsteez8253 LOL!!!

[@Jack-xh7nr]

Shark bite hack

[@S0ul5Hun73r]

sharkbites?... really?

[@volbster2]

Edited: Shut off valves are not required by code for bathtubs or showers for a good reason. The valves for these types of installs would be inaccessible. If you look at any tub or shower there are no shut off valves. You should not have needed to add water line the extensions. You've added four extra connections by adding unnecessary and extensions. valves. The drain should be hard plumbed for better reliability and flow. The threaded adapter should be taped and doped. Looks like the tub might have adjustable feet underneath for leveling. One step glue works great or you can prime all your joints before going into the crawl space. This video should be taken because it was not properly done.

[@NjongoMatole]

You all fail to give more information about this installation

[@iegres66]

Thank you for the video. However it looks like you created S-trap below your tub. Per any plumbing code trap arm must be vented. Without the proper vent this installation won’t be unproved if inspected

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

There is a vent within 4 foot of this tub. It will vent just fine. Thanks for watching!

[@iegres66]

S-trap is illegal in any jurisdiction . Your trap arm is not vented regardless how far your vent is located down the line. The problem with s-trap especially with tub your trap could be siphon with flushing water. Sorry but it’s important point when you upload instructional video. Thanks.

[@david888a]

This video will not helped if the tub installation is on the 2nd floor with no crawl space,isn’t it?

[@paulkern9380]

Looks like time for another video, this time for 2nd floor! That’s what we are doing now. I found this video really helpful for all the rest.

[@franciscorosario4510]

Hey. Buddy but. You. Dont. Show the most. Important... THE MALE. ADAPTERS. HOW. MUCH. THE. DISTANCE. FROM. THE. FLOOR ??? BECAUSE in. That case YOU. HAVE. SPACE. BUT. IN A. GROUND. HOUSE... ONLY. CONCRETE. FLOOR. WHAT. DISTANCE. YOU. RECOMENDATED???

[@TheMechanic-l1p]

Looks to me like you are using silicone not caulk. You should know the correct terminology if you are providing instructional videos. You need to level up man.

[@adamnonnenmacher7774]

Dude, it has leveling legs 😂 why are you cutting wood shims on a tub. That is a NO NO

[@jakevorpiable]

tile set directly on the subfloor? this guy just lost all credibility with me

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I don’t know what you thought you saw in this video but the tile is not directly on the subfloor. It is on cement board. I have countless videos installing tile and is always on cement board. I hope this helps you out!