American Standard
products are an American bathroom staple. The Scala whirlpool tub provides a number of features you will love, including an integral seat and six adjustable jets. Installing a Scala whirlpool bathtub can be a challenge, but if you prepare the site correctly, the rest of the process will go smoothly. Installing a bathtub can be a messy project. Clean as you go, removing trash and unneeded materials from the work site, to speed up the job and help ensure safety.
Instructions
1. Following the manufacturer's specifications, frame a space in the bathroom for the tub. The Scala whirlpool tub is designed to fit into a corner or other triangular area. Frame in an access panel (12-by-24 inches minimum) to allow access to the pump and electrical components after installation is complete. Install bath deck supports along the walls to support the bathtub. Locate these supports roughly 19 and 3/4 inches above the ground. This height may vary depending on the amount of leveling the tub requires.
2. Fill the bathtub with water to check for leaks that may have occurred during shipping and handling. If a leak is found, call for warranty service before completing the installation process.
3. Place the bathtub in the framed structure, allowing the deck supports to hold the tub. Place a four-foot level along the back edges of the tub to ensure the tub sits correctly. Use composite shims to make leveling adjustments as needed. In addition, place the level along the front edge of the bathtub to ensure that edge is also level. Run a small bead of silicone caulk under the shims as adhesive to keep them in place.
4. Apply plastic vapor barrier to the exposed studs around the bathtub with a staple gun. Install cement board over the vapor barrier, attaching the cement board to the studs with cement board screws. Run the cement board down the wall so the edge of the board slightly covers the edge of the bathtub. Fasten the edge of the cement board to the wall studs with roofing nails just above the edge of the tub.
5. Apply ceramic or other tile to the cement board, leaving a 1/16- to 1/8-inch gap between the edge of the tile and the tub. Allow the tile adhesive to dry completely before grouting the tile. After the grout has cured, run a bead of silicone caulk along the edge of the tub between the tile and the tub. Smooth the bead with a wet finger or a caulking tool.
6. To ensure your safety, as well as the safety of your family, have a licensed electrician connect all of the electrical components in accordance with state and local laws.
7. Remove all debris and trash from the installation area. Use paint thinner or naphtha to remove glue and other adhesives from the bathtub surface before using. Clean the tub thoroughly before the first use.
Tags: cement board, American Standard, bathtub with, bead silicone, bead silicone caulk, deck supports, edge bathtub