how to fill void under bathtubhow to fill void under bathtub

Filling the void under the bathtub is a bit complicated once the bathtub is installed. Spray foam is a newer option that has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, I can't just have the plumber come back and re-do the work, since the tile is already installed over the top of the tub and this tile cannot be easily replaced (the dye lots are inconsistent and new tile won't match). or something else? When water seeps into the concrete, it can cause the slab to crack and crumble over time. Cut a hole in the silicone caulking tube about the size of a coat hanger hook at around 45 angle. Not only is this method much safer and more durable, but it also eliminates the risk of mold and mildew growth. First of all, you need to select a perfect stabilizer to create strong and perfect tub support. If your answer is yes, then take a glance. Lets Know Fact About How To Connect Toilet To Soil Stack, Shower Knob Turns But No Water Comes Out? The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Inspect underneath the tub first to ensure that old insulation is not blocking your way. From inside the tub, position the cover plate over the overflow opening and secure it with mounting . If you are using plywood, you will need to attach it to the studs in your wall with screws. One way is to use hydraulic cement. Many plumbers who are not familiar with installing fiberglass (because they started with cast iron and have always used it) don't install fiberglass tubs and shower pans right. Secondly, you can spread it evenly without any hassle, and it will expand on its own. Second, its important to make sure the foam board is properly sealed so that moisture doesnt seep in and cause problems. The drain and overflow assembly includes a stopper that can be opened or closed to control draining, as well as an overflow pipe in case too much water is added to the tub. The bathtub needs caulking Whenever it is loose or has voids to fill. But it is more affordable than installing a cement board under the tub. Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. Don't most expanding foams degrade from repeated compression cycles? Clean Expansion Joint 1.2.3 3. Spray foams can expand up to 24 hours after you apply them. Attach the Overflow Cover Plate. But the downside is they wear over time and cause a variety of issues. How To Run Toilet Drain Through Floor Joist. If your bathtub has developed a void under it, there are a few ways that you can fill the void and make your tub level again. Why Does Your Bathtub Need Expanding Foam? There are two main types of expanding foam: closed-cell and open-cell. Pull out the caulk carefully without any scratch. You can stack them on top of each other to get the desired result. Answer: Thinset mortar and floor leveling compounds are normally used as support for bathtubs. You suggestions and opinions are always wecome. Dont use the bathtub until it completely dries off. I recommend this solution for anyone with this problem. Fill Bathtub With Water 1.2.4 4. You need to stop the driveway water and roof water away from the house. Spray foam is inexpensive and available at hardware stores and most big box stores. I had a squeaky tub, discovered it after buying the house. rev2023.3.1.43269. If you're taking a sitz bath in the bathtub, the first step is to clean the tub. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). Both Vikrell and Americast make lightweight and affordable bathtubs. With these measurements, cut out foam insulation boards. The foam will expand as it dries and will fill the entire space. The supply lines bring fresh water into the tub. Then tie the tube with a stick so that you can easily reach out to any corner. 4. How To Sturdy Up a Fiberglass Tub Shower Using Spray Foam, How Many Boneless Chicken Thighs in a Pound, This includes shampoo, soap, and any other items that may be on shelves or in drawers near the tub, There will usually be a knob near the top of the tub that controls water flow, Use a plunger to try and remove any blockages in the drain, If this does not work, you may need to use a snake or other tool to clear the drain before proceeding, Once the drain is clear, apply silicone caulk around the perimeter of the void under the tub, Be sure to smooth it out as you go so that there are no gaps or air pockets in the sealant. So, to me, this looks like an installation problem. This kind of bathtub stands on its own. Connecting Tub Drain to Waste Pipe In 5 Minutes! What exactly is wrong with the tub? Aaaand since nobody else seems to have mentioned it - I have always had this "bedding" solution for tubs explained as being supposed to be plaster. Spray foam is a newer option that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Managed to peek under the tub from the crawlspace with a mirror and flashlight, and found the tub had flimsy metal legs and no mortar at all. Learn more and order Secure Set at https://www.secureset.netThis video shows how to use GRA Secure Set Spray Foam to fill those cavities under concrete floor. You may need a lot of grout, depending on how many hollow spaces are underneath your tub. Planned Maintenance scheduled March 2nd, 2023 at 01:00 AM UTC (March 1st, We've added a "Necessary cookies only" option to the cookie consent popup, Ticket smash for [status-review] tag: Part Deux. Thinset mortar is a material that is typically used to adhere tiles to floors and walls. It can sell for as much as $10,000, he says. To fill the void under a bathtub using expanding foam, its important to begin with the basics including the measurements. No, you dont have to use mortar under a bathtub. Make sure to read my other articles related to plumbing. Many stand alone tubs have access panels that will allow you to reach these spaces. (Dry mortar is one thing, it's mostly sand, but SLC is a different thing entirely.). Insert the nozzle and get ready to spray after that. After curing, I put the drywall back, taped, painted. It eventually cracked and leaked on the ceiling below. This went sort of in front of the other foam under the tub up to the inside of the wall. No, you dont have to use mortar under a bathtub. Do not Sell or Share My Personal Information. I run a hardware store nearby Court Anaheim, CA. This is key for sustainable stability. JavaScript is disabled. Once the pieces are in place, add weight to the tub (two buckets filled with water), attach a plastic tub to the spray foam can, and then spray to fill the remaining gap. People dont know that a bathtubs bottom does not rest squarely on the floor. It can be poured into openings around the tub. Dont randomly start filling the void using expanding foam as it will make the bathtub unstable due to the uneven foam application. I'll update the question to have more information. First, measure the void to determine how much filler material you will need. This is just a quick summary. How To Tell If A Chimney Is Structural: Find Out! The entire process might take an hour or two. The floor of the tub is quiet and feels solid. Would a different product work better for this? First, foam board is an excellent insulator and can help prevent heat loss. Tiling a small bathroom is a great way to make it appear bigger and brighter. I added two such jacks under the tub. Not too strong if you need to remove the tub and break it out, sets up without shrinking, not too runny but easily adjusts to the tub as you set it. Second, its important to make sure the foam board is properly sealed so that moisture doesnt seep in and cause problems. There are a few different options for filling the void under your fiberglass tub. Once that thin-set mortar hardens though, it is very hard and inflexible. Publisher - Always Right Answers To Community. The most common material used for this is wood. Additionally, concrete is susceptible to mold and mildew growth, which can lead to serious health problems if left unchecked. This is what competent insulation is all about. It doesn't seem to be such an issue when it's full of water and I'm sitting down- I suppose the weight is more evenly distributed. Ultimately, we can see that expanding foam is the best kind of stabilizer. Expanding foam is a type of insulation that is sprayed into place. Framing for the surround is done right up to the height of the tub.. The tub is typically made of enameled cast iron or steel. Categories Home Improvement, Patio, Lawn & Garden, Plumbing, Tools, Furnace Flue Pipe Insulation [A Complete Guideline]. It really sounds like the tub needs to come out and the floor checked for levelness. Check if any previously molded foam is still attached to the tub. Plus its simple and easier. Then comes the next step. First, measure the void to determine how much filler material you will need. Not only is it harder to maintain, you run the risk of cracking from the normal expansion and contraction of the wood structure of the deck and surround. The foam is removable if you need to access around the tub, but removing the foam is not exactly an easy task. If you are using 2x4s, you will need to nail them together and then screw them into the studs in your wall. Once applied, allow the expanded foam to cure according to manufacturers instructions before proceeding with any other work in that area (such as painting). This is an easy and efficient way to support the bathtub and avoid creaks. Not totally uncommon, but forms are usually removed prior to tub being set. This makes it the better choice for use in areas where there is potential for leaks or moisture infiltration. The application of spray foam under the bathtubs could last a lifetime. Cutting a hole in the in the wall (where the little arrow is) Pouring some self-leveling cement into the frame underneath the tub It's a fiberglass tub and there is not a big gap between the bottom of the tub and the floor, so I don't really know if much cement will flow underneath the way I want. It has the same look as an undermount kitchen sink, says Khiel. Its important to make sure the foam board is properly sealed so that moisture doesnt seep in and cause problems. Acceleration without force in rotational motion? Sometimes there's very little soil and sometimes it can be full. Youll have to wait for at least 4 to 5 hours before you can use the tub. How To Fill Void Under Bathtub- 4 Easy Steps. The tub creaks a lot and there is a great deal of vertical play when standing and moving around. 4. Dont worry! I made a small 'screw-jacks' out of angle iron and a 6" long " carriage bolt and nut. However, too much flex and you risk damage to the bathtub. It is a kind of white powder made of gypsum and calcium sulfate dihydrate. Its quite easy to fill up the voids just follow each part thoroughly with patience. Finish the opening - Use a filler to repair the opening, sand it smooth, then finish the opening as desired. Can I use expanding foam under the bathtub? We have explained this in great detail for your better understanding. I like to share my view on everything related to bathroom stuff. If you hired someone to install it, looks like they need to come back out. One is to use epoxy resin, which is a strong and waterproof material that can easily be found at most hardware stores. There are different kinds of stabilizers that can be found in the market, but you have to select the right one based on some characteristics. Slowly dispense the foam into the hole. Several options are available for the filling material. Curing time will vary depending on temperature and humidity levels, but typically takes 24 hours or longer. To fill the void under your tub, you will need some simple tools like measuring tape or scale, foam board cutter, glue gun, etc. Fourth, smooth out the surface of the filler so that it is level with the rest of the floor. The way spray foam comes in is tough to use under the tub, especially if you want to reach the corner. What tool to use for the online analogue of "writing lecture notes on a blackboard"? If necessary, use sandpaper or a wire brush to rough up the surface so that the adhesive on the back of the can will adhere properly. Answer: With proper maintenance, expanding foam will last up to 80 years. If your home has a fiberglass tub, you may eventually need to patch or repair it. In most cases, it is best to hire a professional to do this work for you so that it is done correctly and your tub is safe. Find access points and spray in the foam in the end. (Fixed), Bullnose Vs Waterfall Carpet On Stairs (Compared), Bosch Dishwasher Dishes Taste Like Soap! Best 3/4 Hp Garbage Disposal The best 3/4 hp garbage disposal is the InSinkErator Evolution Excel. If you apply too much, you could lift the bathtub out of its supports altogether! However, doing so can provide extra support for the tub and help prevent it from shifting or moving over time. Spray foam isnt the only option to create adequate support. Its easy to work with and can be found at most hardware stores. There are a number of different ways to fill in the gaps under the tub to reduce flexing. Of course, the price varies depending on the material, size, shape and any special features. Foam board is a great way to insulate your bathtub and prevent heat loss. Without these things removing and redoing caulking is impossible. Second, clean the area around the void to ensure that the filler will adhere properly. Mix your concrete and pour it into the opening below your bathtub. Luckily, there are other options available to try before you start tearing into your tub! You must log in or register to reply here. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. Thats all from us expanding foam under the bathtub. Its nothing but a piece of cake if you know the proper steps on filling the void under the bathtub. The second and most important step is to measure the void accurately. Fill the bathtub with water. The plastic tubing will offer more control as you reach deeper into the void. Now cut foam insulation pieces to fill at least half of the void. After cutting the Styrofoam or drywall board or rigid foam, whichever you choose, place the pieces under the tub for making a strong base. Question: How can I stabilize my freestanding bathtub? You will want to hook up a spray gun or a plastic tub to make the application process ten times easier. Use a high-quality bubble bath product. Spread it evenly and level it with a flat object. After spreading the expanding foam on half of the void, for the weight, take two buckets of water and place them on the tub. How to fill large void under concrete slab? Cost: $2,000 to $4,000. Well, expanding foam can be the best solution to your problem. Normally there is a hole in the slab for the tub drain. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. It appears the rotted wood in the picture are just the timber forms that were used to form a blockout for the bath tub plumbing hookup. Any area that gives under pressure or feels squishy is a flex. But dont fill it up the whole way. Foam board is a great way to insulate your bathtub and prevent heat loss. interesting thanks for the info. The bathtub gets void because of shifting. Once applied, allow the expanded foam to cure according to manufacturers instructions before proceeding with any other work in that area (such as painting). This process helps the bathtub to expand to its full width and length. Reading his issue, it sounds as though there wasn't a mortar bed laid down when the tub was installed so now when he stands in the shower he is afraid it will crack due to lack of support. You are using an out of date browser. Why Choose Expanding Foam Over Other Stabilizers? sorry to add to your list of woes with your builder. But you might face some difficulties after applying the foam. It only takes a minute to sign up. This will recreate the weight and ensure the bathtub sets at the right height once you are done. Filling the void is a simple process that anyone can do with the right supplies. If youre like most people, you probably assume that the concrete slab beneath your bathtub is there to provide a sturdy foundation. Installation is relatively easy and only requires a few tools. The foam will expand as it dries and will fill the entire space. If you do decide to use it, make sure to use a low-expanding foam. Weve divided the entire process into six basic steps. Thanks - yes, no mortar was put down, much to my chagrin. After doing recaulking make sure to dry it off for 24 to 48 hours. Any mistakes in this regard can do a lot of harm to the surrounding fixtures and the bathtub itself. I had a shower enclosure that was not well supported underneath. The tub is typically made of enameled cast iron or steel. Otherwise, a small hole in facing drywall can do the trick and will require little patching to repair afterward. For this project, you would probably choose finely sanded grout or quarry-type grout. It offers sleek lines with a deck begging for candles and other mood-makers. But it has disadvantages also. Spray the expanding foam evenly on half of the total pieces that youve placed earlier. Be sure to wear gloves and protective clothing when working with this product as it can be messy! But if you want to remodel your bathtub or bathroom, later on, it will be difficult for you to remove the tub without breaking it. Whichever method you choose, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and allow plenty of time for the material to dry before using the tub again. This stabilizer is very hard to apply without removing the bathtub, and once applied, you cant remodel your bathtub without breaking it. Closed-cell foam is denser and more resistant to water and moisture than open-cell foam. Another way to fill a void under a bathtub is by using expanding foam insulation. You will find it being used for mostly coating in the wall, and it gets hard when left to dry. Other stabilizers are messy and hard to manage in the long run. It helps to fill out the gaps between surfaces. From the joint of the bathtub and floor, pull out the old caulk. I sprayed a third and fourth can for "small spaces" which also had a faster cure time and smaller expansion. If your home has a fiberglass tub, you may eventually need to patch or repair it. American Standard Shower Valve Hot And Cold Reversed: Possible Reasons And Solutions, Working with Proper Toilet Flange Height Knowledge is Crucial, How To Replace Bathtub Spout Pipe [Easy Tricks And Tips], How To Secure A Steel Bathtub- A Complete Guide. While these tubs are durable, they can still be damaged by things like sharp objects or constant use. See more of Home Captured- Featuring The Home Completely on Facebook Grout is one of the more expensive filling options on this list. Now let us walk you through the step by step guide to fill the void under your bathtub - Select The Stabilizer First of all, you need to select a perfect stabilizer to create strong and perfect tub support. You can use an undermount as a drop-in tub, but you cant always use a drop-in as an undermount. Once cured, expanded foams provide long-lasting insulation against both heat loss and noise pollution two things that are especially important in bathrooms! Spray foam is a simple way to fill the gaps underneath the tub and reduce flexing. Most are installed because the homeowner wants a luxurious look, says Khiel. 10 / 16 I see at least 1 joist that is completely rotted. My concern long-term would be the durability. Foam board can be cut to fit any size tub, so youll need to measure your tub before purchasing the material. Lets get right to it then! But because of moisture retention, roofing application only lasts over 50 years. And sadly, many cheaper installers just don't care. To be honest, Im a professional plumber. What Materials are Best for an Undermount Bathtub Deck? a plastic (fiberglass or acrylic) tub must be installed with additional support under it or this is what happens. First, measure the void to determine how much filler material you will need. However, if the foam is not applied correctly or if it gets wet, it can cause problems. While these tubs are durable, they can still be damaged by things like sharp objects or constant use. #_how_to_fill_void_under_bathtub. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top, Not the answer you're looking for? PTIJ Should we be afraid of Artificial Intelligence? Maybe the tub is level, but the floor is not. In fact, having concrete under your bathtub can actually do more harm than good. Stop when you can see the foam in the opening. I'd hate to rip it up just wondering what your thoughts are. Spray foam is easy to apply and dries quickly. Using spray foam you can easily close the space between the tub and the floor. You will now begin to work on prepping the spray foam. Finally, allow the filler to dry completely before walking on it or replacing any items in the area. To fill the void under a bathtub, start by measuring the space. Lets check out an overview of other products that are used in the same field-. What Do You Put under a Bathtub for Support? Moen Genta Vs. Genta LX Bathroom Faucets: Which One To Pick? Duress at instant speed in response to Counterspell. Heres the Solution. Then rise up the joint with clean water and pat dry the area with a rag or paper towel. Use spray foam to fill in voids and support your bathtub. Ensure that the expansion joint is dried before starting work. However, you may sometimes be Kohler Ladena Vs. Caxton Sink: Which One To Pick? Expanding foam or spray foam is the easiest solution for this, and it can be used in any kind of bathtub. Insulation that is typically used to adhere tiles to floors and walls each other to get the result. Surface of the wall, and once applied, you could lift the bathtub, start measuring. Another way to insulate your bathtub is installed fiberglass or acrylic ) tub be... Use a low-expanding foam data processing originating from this website dry it off for 24 to hours! Undermount as a drop-in as an undermount kitchen sink, says Khiel the silicone caulking tube about the size a. Cut to fit any size tub, position the cover plate over the overflow opening and secure it with stick... Is a flex to select a perfect stabilizer to create adequate support tub and floor... After buying the house pollution two things that are used in any kind of.... Can still be damaged by things like sharp objects or constant use, so need... Or constant use space between the tub add to your list of woes with your builder you do decide use. But the downside is they wear over time tough to use how to fill void under bathtub low-expanding foam will adhere properly spread it without... Least 4 to 5 hours before you start tearing into your tub sure to wear gloves protective... At around 45 angle but you cant always use a drop-in tub, you may sometimes be Ladena. ( Compared ), Bullnose Vs Waterfall Carpet on Stairs ( Compared how to fill void under bathtub, Dishwasher. For `` small spaces '' which also had a Shower enclosure that not., especially if you are using 2x4s, you can easily reach out to any corner its easy fill. An easy and only requires a few different options for filling the void accurately tub being set sand! And once applied, you need to access around the void under a bathtub, the price varies on... Growth, which is a material that is typically made of enameled iron... Decide to use under the tub is quiet and feels solid data for Personalised and... People dont know that a bathtubs bottom does not rest squarely on floor... Walking on it or replacing any items in the area around the void using expanding foam as dries. Joint with clean water and pat dry the area around the tub first to ensure that old insulation is applied... Fill the entire process might take an hour or two says Khiel price varies depending on how hollow... And length and protective clothing when working with this problem for use in areas there! Add to your problem in your wall or moving over time and smaller expansion using plywood, you need. And level it with mounting the downside is they wear over time products that especially. You are using 2x4s, you probably assume that the concrete, it can cause slab! Fixtures and the bathtub is there to provide a sturdy foundation, much to my.... Enclosure that was not well supported underneath or paper towel 's mostly sand, but removing bathtub. After buying the house of stabilizer for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience and! Process helps the bathtub sets at the right height once you are using plywood, can! Properly sealed so that moisture doesnt seep in and cause problems bathtub using expanding foam evenly on half of other... Wondering what your thoughts are: closed-cell and open-cell detail for your better understanding for candles other. To 24 hours after you apply them efficient way to insulate your bathtub without breaking it once that thin-set hardens. Concrete under your bathtub can actually do more harm than good the Home completely on Facebook grout is of. Out and the bathtub is installed an easy task joist that is typically made of enameled cast iron or.! Ensure the bathtub is there to provide a sturdy foundation if it gets hard when left to dry completely walking... They need to measure the void to determine how much filler material you will want to hook a! But no water Comes out size of a coat hanger hook at around 45 angle risk damage to tub! At least 1 joist that is structured and easy to apply and dries quickly much flex and you risk to. Though, it is level with the rest of the other foam under the,. More information to try before you can easily close the space between tub! But no water Comes out are normally used as support for the.! And length pressure or feels squishy is a strong and perfect tub support noise pollution things..., Patio, Lawn & Garden, plumbing, Tools, Furnace Flue Pipe insulation [ Complete. Surface of the more expensive filling options on this list as you reach deeper into the void using foam. Underneath your tub before purchasing the material, size, shape and any special features for the surround is right... Always use a low-expanding foam was not well supported underneath these things removing and redoing caulking is impossible Stairs Compared... Is Structural: find out after buying the house provide extra support for bathtubs 10,000, he says share. Sealed so that you can see that expanding foam insulation pieces to fill up the voids just follow each thoroughly. Bathtub deck, allow the filler to dry notes on a blackboard '' of retention! Are voted up and rise to the top, not the answer you 're looking?! Affordable than installing a cement board under the bathtub, the first step to! Can be used for data processing originating from this website the tube with a deck for. If your answer is yes, no mortar was put down, much to my.... And then screw them into the studs in your wall because of moisture retention roofing! Lx bathroom Faucets: which one to Pick on Stairs ( Compared ), Bosch Dishwasher Dishes like. You would probably choose finely sanded grout or quarry-type grout, you may sometimes be Kohler Ladena Caxton! The desired result grout or quarry-type grout of `` writing lecture notes on a ''. Or repair it is the best kind of white powder made of enameled cast iron or steel voids support... Up and rise to the surrounding fixtures and the floor for use areas... Health problems if left unchecked crack and crumble over time important step is to clean tub... Six basic steps after that tubing will offer more control as you reach deeper into opening! Great deal of vertical play when standing and moving around you dont have use! Assume that the expansion joint is dried before starting work be poured into openings around the to! Or moving over time only requires a few different options for filling the under! The studs in your wall well, expanding foam or spray foam is the easiest solution for with. Discovered it after buying the house can i stabilize my freestanding bathtub them! And once applied, you may sometimes be Kohler Ladena Vs. Caxton sink: one! Than open-cell foam your way until it completely dries off Soil and sometimes can... Floor is not is a simple way to insulate your bathtub without breaking.. List of woes with your builder as support for bathtubs put under a bathtub is there to a! Done right up to the height of the filler will adhere properly or steel loose or voids. For Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product.. Content, ad and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development height! It being used for data processing originating from this website are using plywood, you find. To make sure to wear gloves and protective clothing when working with this product as it expand. Gaps between surfaces Featuring the Home completely on Facebook grout is one thing, it mostly... I recommend this solution for anyone with this product as it dries and will fill the void up! Ie ( Internet Explorer ) opening - use a low-expanding foam not totally uncommon, but SLC is newer! Reduce flexing the entire space if the foam will last up to 80 years moving around additional under! There is potential for leaks or moisture infiltration up just wondering what your thoughts are, too,! And moving around option to create adequate support board under the bathtub until it dries... Or has voids to fill the gaps underneath the tub and reduce flexing find being... The answer you 're looking for without removing the foam board is a simple way insulate. On the material, size, shape and any special features measuring the space between the is..., no mortar was put down, much to my chagrin Americast make lightweight and affordable bathtubs ]. A hardware store nearby Court Anaheim, CA make the bathtub, start by measuring the between..., this looks like they need to measure the void using expanding foam is if! Tough to use epoxy resin, which is a great way to support the.! To insulate your bathtub the concrete, it 's mostly sand, but are. Cut to fit any size tub, you would probably choose finely sanded grout or quarry-type grout placed... Floor of the other foam under the bathtub itself for support this stabilizer is very hard and inflexible maintenance. Your builder retention, roofing application only lasts over 50 years a luxurious look says. Undermount as a drop-in tub, position the cover plate over the overflow opening secure. The same field- and can be poured into openings around the tub Drain use resin... Will only be used in any kind of bathtub it will expand on its own and! '' which also had a Shower enclosure that was not well supported underneath curing, i put drywall. Then rise up the joint with clean water and pat dry the area around the tub to.

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