
They typically come in 5 gallon buckets and one bucket should be enough for the entire tub enclosure. Step 5 - Apply A Waterproofing Compound To The Cement BackerboardĪpply a waterproofing compound over the cement backerboard.Ī waterproofing membrane such as the brand Green Barrier will make the cement board resistant to water intrusion and damage.
TILED BATHTUB INSTALL
Install 1/2-inch cement backerboard on the framing and over the plywood floor which will give strength and prevent mold and water damage.Ĭement board is moisture-resistant and commonly used in bathrooms and tub enclosures.įor most shower enclosures, 1/4-inch concrete board is usually used, but since you want more strength for this tile tub, 1/2-inch board is recommended. Read Also > What Are The Top Acrylic Alcove Bathtubs? Step 4 - Install 1/2-Inch Cement Board On The Tub And Walls You will also need to cut a hole in the plywood so the drain can pass through. Homeowners shouldn't skimp out on this step and go for a thin piece of plywood.Ī 1-inch layer will strengthen the tub floor and help prevent future issues. Install a 1-inch layer of treated 'green' plywood on the tub floor for added strength. Step 3 - Install A 1-Inch Layer of Treated Plywood On The Tub Floor Make sure to cover the tub drain with a plastic bag to prevent debris from going into the pipe. Install the plumbing rough in for the drain and faucet. Installing the framing with 12-inch spacing OC is recommended to add more strength. It is crucial that you build the curb and tub floor stronger than what is normal as compared to a typical shower curb and floor.

Measure and build out the frame of the tub and curb with 2x4's. Install Anti-Fracture Membrane Fabric For Another Layer of Waterproofing.Apply A Waterproofing Compound To The Cement Backerboard.Install 1/2-Inch Cement Board On The Tub And Walls.

TILED BATHTUB HOW TO
How To Make A Bathtub Out of Tile? (7-Step Guide) Waterproofing Compound: A liquid elastomeric waterproofing compound like Green Barrier will be used over the cement backerboard.Anti-Fracture Membrane: Anti-fracture fabric will be used on the tub up to the water line and round the plumbing penetrations.1/2" Plywood: A thick piece of plywood will be used for the subfloor of the tub.1/2" Cement Backerboard: Concrete board will be used over the framing to provide rigidity and moisture-resistance.2x4 Lumber: 2x4's will be needed to build out the tub and wall enclosure as well as the curb.Read Also > How To Snake A Bathtub Drain? Supplies You'll Need To Make A Bathtub Out Of Tile If homeowners have any doubts about making a tub out of tile, a qualified contractor should be consulted or hired. It's essential to remember that a building permit will have to be pulled from the local building department as well.

I won't go into all of the plumbing details and other issues. This guide is really meant just as a rough overlook of the main steps involved. Homeowners should have some construction experience and this job isn't for beginners. Installing a tile tub and surround definitely isn't for the faint of heart. You can use any type of tile you want on the tub such as river stone. However, the advantages of making a bathtub out of tile is that you can build non-standard shapes to the tub such as. There are more risks of water leaks, cost overruns, and damage to the bathroom.

Making a bathtub out of tile is definitely more difficult than installing a typical bathtub. What You Need To Know About Making A Bathtub Out of Tile
