|
|
|
Bathtub Replacement Too Small for Bathtub Opening
How to Fill Space between Replacement Bathtub
and Wall Stud
By: Mark J. Donovan
|
|
Question: Mark, I ran into a
problem on my bathroom remodeling project and bathtub replacement, and am hoping
you can offer some advice to the dilemma I find myself in. My bathroom was
completely gutted and the bathtub was replaced in the process. Though the newly
installed bathtub replacement looks great it is about 1 inch shorter than the
framed in bathtub opening. Consequently, there is a about a 1 inch space between
the wall studs and the bathtub edge opposite the drain area.
|
|
My question is how to address this
space. I plan on tiling the area above the bathtub. One thought I had, was to
install an extra layer of cement backerboard over the wall studs to act as a
filler. Any thought if this is a good way to solve my bathtub replacement
dilemma?
Answer: C.B. The dilemma you find yourself in is not so uncommon. Often
diy homeowners, and even some contractors, neglect to find out what the bathtub
rough opening requirements are before framing-in, or modifying the existing
framing, in their bathtub area.
|
 |
|
|
They simply make some assumptions
about the expected replacement bathtub dimensions and frame up the walls. Often
they end up assuming wrong and wind up in your situation. This is why I always
stress up-front planning when tackling any home remodeling project, including
the selection of plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs, toilets and vanities.
Fortunately in your case the bathtub
framed-in opening was too big. When the bathtub opening is too small, typically
one or two stud walls need to be torn out and replaced, which is a big mess and
takes more time and money.
|
In some cases, a different
replacement bathtub needs to be ordered which adds delays to the bathroom
remodeling project.
In regards to solving your particular
bathtub replacement predicament you were on the right track. Yes you can fill
the space behind the bathtub opening with an extra layer of cement backerboard,
or even a piece of plywood. However an easier and cheaper solution would be to
simply attach furring strips, or strapping, along the length of the wall studs
that are coming up short. Effectively you would vertically sister additional
lumber to the edges of each wall stud that needs to be brought out to the edge
of the replacement bathtub. To sister the furring strips to the wall studs,
simply measure the space, rip some 2x4 lumber to the measured width, and then
nail or screw them to the edges of the wall studs. After you install the furring
strips you can then install one layer of cement backerboard over the modified
wall studs to support the ceramic tiles.
|
Find a Qualified Bathroom Remodeling Contractor in Your Area |
|
Get Free Quotes. Easy, Quick and No
Obligations!
For the home improvement or home remodeling project that is
too big for you, check out our partner
NeedContractor. They are a national
resource for finding pre-screened, insured, and licensed home improvement and remodeling contractors in your local area.
|
|
|
Get Matched in 48 hours with Bathroom
Remodeling
Contractors! |
For more help on bathroom remodeling, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's
Bathroom Remodeling Bid Sheet.
The
Bathroom Remodeling Bid Sheet
provides you with the knowledge and information you need to plan a bathroom addition
project, and what to look for when hiring contractors. It
also includes a detailed cost breakdown table and a spreadsheet for estimating
your own new bathroom remodeling building costs.
How to Finance your Bathroom
Remodeling Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Related Bathroom Makeover Design Information
Additional Bathroom Remodeling Design Ideas
from Amazon.com
Bathroom Remodeling Ideas and Accessories from Amazon.com
Get Free Bathroom
Remodeling Price Quotes with No Obligation!
Fill out our 3-5 minute quick and easy form, and receive a free price quote
on bathroom remodeling from one of our prescreened and licensed bathroom
remodeling contractors. This process is free and there is no obligation to
continue once you receive your bathroom remodeling price estimate.
|
|
|
