I Installed an Acrylic Freestanding Tub Myself – Here’s What I’d Do Differently
Installing an acrylic freestanding bathtub seemed like a straightforward DIY project—until I actually did it. While the end result was stunning, the process wasn’t as easy as I had imagined. Looking back, there are several things I wish I had known before tackling this project. If you’re considering installing a freestanding tub yourself, here’s what I’d do differently—and what you should keep in mind to avoid my mistakes.
1. I Underestimated the Weight and Handling
One of the biggest surprises was how lightweight yet bulky an acrylic freestanding tub can be. I assumed that since it wasn’t made of cast iron, I could maneuver it easily by myself. I was wrong.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Have at least one extra pair of hands – Even though acrylic is lighter than other materials, lifting, rotating, and positioning a large tub alone is a struggle.
✔ Use protective padding – Moving the tub around caused some minor scuffing on my floors. Next time, I’d lay down blankets or cardboard to prevent damage.
2. I Didn’t Plan for the Drain Placement Carefully Enough
I thought my existing drain and plumbing layout would align perfectly with my new tub. Unfortunately, I overlooked the fact that freestanding tubs have a different drain configuration compared to built-in models.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Measure the drain placement beforehand – I should have triple-checked the exact position of the tub’s drain opening relative to my existing plumbing.
✔ Use a flexible drain hose – Some freestanding tubs come with flexible drain pipes to make adjustments easier. I should have used one to avoid unnecessary plumbing work.
✔ Consult a plumber if needed – While I was able to adjust the drain myself, hiring a professional for this step would have saved time and stress.
3. I Didn’t Level the Floor Before Installation
Acrylic freestanding tubs need to sit on a perfectly level surface to prevent rocking or water pooling. My bathroom floor looked flat to the naked eye, but once I placed the tub, I realized it wasn’t.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Check floor leveling with a spirit level – Before installing the tub, I’d use a leveling tool to ensure the floor is completely even.
✔ Use adjustable tub feet – Some acrylic freestanding tubs come with adjustable leveling feet, which can make minor adjustments easier.
4. I Rushed the Silicone Sealing Process
Once I had the tub in place, I used plumber’s putty and silicone sealant around the base and drain. Unfortunately, I didn’t allow enough drying time, which led to water seepage issues later on.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Use high-quality waterproof sealant – Next time, I’d invest in a premium mold-resistant silicone specifically designed for bathtubs and wet areas.
✔ Allow 24 hours for drying – Rushing this step meant I had to redo the sealing later, which was frustrating and time-consuming.
5. I Didn’t Test the Water Connections Before Final Placement
I was so focused on getting the tub positioned perfectly that I forgot to test the water supply first. Once I turned on the water, I discovered a minor leak at the faucet connection—meaning I had to move the tub again to fix it.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Check water supply fittings before securing the tub – Next time, I’d run a quick water test to identify leaks before sealing everything in place.
✔ Use thread seal tape on all connections – A simple fix, but wrapping plumber’s tape around the faucet threads can prevent annoying drips later.
6. I Didn’t Consider the Cleaning Challenges
Once the tub was installed, I realized something I hadn’t thought of—cleaning around and under a freestanding tub is trickier than a built-in. Since the tub sits away from the wall, dust and water can accumulate underneath.
What I’d Do Differently:
✔ Leave enough space between the tub and the wall – A small gap allows easier access for cleaning.
✔ Choose a tub with a smooth, non-porous finish – This makes it easier to wipe down and prevents soap scum buildup.
Final Thoughts: Would I Install a Freestanding Tub Myself Again?
Despite the challenges, I absolutely love my acrylic freestanding bathtub. It transformed my bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like retreat, and the installation process—though frustrating at times—was worth it. However, if I were to do it again, I’d take more time to plan, be more meticulous with leveling and sealing, and test everything before finalizing the placement.
If you’re considering a DIY freestanding tub installation, I hope my mistakes help you avoid common pitfalls and make the process smoother!