Installing a Jetted tub

It took a bit of work and some time but was actually moderately easy to install the tub ourselves.

We measured and built the frame first and then my Dad came in and  installed the plumbing.  We were really lucky to have my Dad because he knows all about plumbing.  I would not reccomend it if you have never done any plumbing before.  That is not to say that you need to run out and hire a plumber but you can try to find a friend or a Dad to help you with it.  The plumbing alone is a two to three day job.

The tub needs a form to set in and it needs to be set in mortar.  Since we wanted our tub at the window level that meant building a higher form for the tub to set on.

We are planning to tile the tub so we cut a pattern of plywood for the top and installed Denshield on top of that as a tile backer.

The fit was pretty snug and took some work to get it in without damaging the plumbing.

Once the tub was in place we hooked up the drains and the hot and cold water to the fixtures.  While that sounds simple and quick this is also a two to three day process. 

When you purchase a jetted tub it comes with all these instructions.  My suggestion would be to put a team together of someone who is familiar with plumming, and two helpers.  Have someone standing by for trips to the hardware store because you will be making a few trips.  In my experience it is very hard to plan out exactally what you will need when starting a plumbing project like this.  It's nice to have someone there to hand the person doing your plumbing the pipes and tools that he needs. 

Since every tub installation is going to be different this accont of our experience is to show you that it is possible to do it yourself.