Leveling an existing bathtub primarily involves adjusting its base with shims after detaching it from surrounding structures.
To level a bathtub, follow these steps based on common practice:
Steps for Leveling an Existing Bathtub
Leveling ensures proper water drainage and stability for your tub. It's often a two-person job.
- Prepare and Access:
- Begin by getting assistance from a friend or helper.
- Carefully un-attach your bathtub from the wall, floor, or both places where it is secured. This allows you to lift and adjust the tub.
- Check the Level:
- Use a large level placed along the rims or flat surfaces of the tub to check if it sits level. Check in multiple directions (front-to-back and side-to-side).
- Insert Shims:
- If the tub is not level, identify the low spots.
- Slide wood or metal shims underneath the tub at the low points. Shims are thin, wedge-shaped pieces used to fill gaps and provide support.
- Verify and Adjust:
- Re-check to see if it's level using your level.
- Add more shims as necessary until the tub is perfectly level in all directions.
Once the tub is level, it would typically be re-secured to the wall and floor, though this step is not detailed in the provided reference.
Quick Reference Table
For a brief overview of the process:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Detach | Un-attach tub from wall/floor (with help). | Allows for lifting and adjustment. |
| 2. Check Level | Use a large level on the tub surface. | Identify low spots. |
| 3. Insert Shims | Slide shims (wood/metal) under low spots. | Raise and support the tub base. |
| 4. Re-check & Adjust | Check level again; add more shims until level. | Ensure precise leveling for drainage. |
This process ensures your bathtub is correctly aligned for installation or maintenance, preventing issues like standing water or undue stress on the structure.
