How to Choose and Install a New Bath

Taking a bath, for many, is the only time they get a little peace; quiet time to relax and rejuvenate, away from the kids, which is why choosing the right bath matters so much. We may not spend much time in a bath, but when we do, we want it to count.

But not everyone is fortunate enough to have a bath in their home. Some may have a combined bath/shower, others, no bath. However, it pays to keep in mind that not having a bath will make your home harder to sell and will reduce its value, and most real estate experts agree. Therefore, if you have room for a bath, add one!

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we know the considerations you must make when choosing. We also know the factors you need to consider when choosing a bath for a renovation; because, as you may or may not know, dealing with a renovation, as opposed to a new house, can be vastly different. Moreover, our 40+ years of experience have equipped us with all the need-to-knows about installing new baths. So, today, we look at how to not only choose a bath but also install it!

How to Choose a Bath

Once you’ve explored the essential details in The Ultimate Bath Buying Guide, you’re ready to dive into selecting the perfect bath for your space. Choosing a bath involves more than just picking a style—it’s about finding the right fit for your layout, personal comfort, and design goals. Follow these practical steps to help ensure that your new bath suits your needs and creates the relaxing, stylish bathroom you envision.

1. Assess Your Bathroom Layout: Measure your space carefully. Think about where plumbing is located and whether you have room for a freestanding bath, back-to-wall bath, or if a corner bath might make the best use of your layout.
2. Select Your Bath Type: Decide on the type that suits your space and design style. Freestanding baths make a statement in larger bathrooms, while back-to-wall baths balance style with a space-saving design. Insert and corner baths are ideal for maximizing compact areas.
3. Pick the Material: Choose a material that aligns with your budget and needs. Acrylic baths are lightweight, durable, and offer good heat retention—perfect for everyday use. Stone and steel are available for those prioritizing luxury but may require reinforced flooring.
4. Choose the Size: Ensure the bath’s dimensions work well in your space and offer comfort. Think about who will be using it and how—single-ended baths suit one person, while double-ended baths allow room for two.
5. Consider Added Features: Determine if you’d like extra features, such as a spa option, ergonomic design, or a particular finish (matte or gloss) that aligns with your vision. These can add comfort and functionality, enhancing your bath experience.
6. Visit Us in Person: For a hands-on experience, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre at 57 James Street, Guildford. Seeing the bath options in person helps you compare designs, materials, and finishes while speaking to our knowledgeable team.

Following these steps will help you make an informed choice, ensuring the bath you select is perfect for your space, style, and budget.

How to Install a Bath

Installing a bath isn’t a complicated process, but it does require various tradespeople, namely a chippy or carpenter and a plumber, to connect it to the plumbing.

The installation process will vary depending on the type of bath you choose. An insert bath requires hob support, and therefore, installation is more involved, while freestanding, back-to-wall and corner baths have a built-in support frame and are, therefore, much easier to install.

Let’s look at the process required to install each bath type.

How to Install an Insert Bath

Installing an insert bath involves the creation of a bath frame, which will become the bath hob. If you are renovating and replacing one bath insert for another, you should be able to use the existing hob and jump to Step 15.

1. Start by measuring the height of the bath. Add a 50-80mm margin to allow for any inconsistencies in the level of the floor.
2. Take a spirit level and draw a line horizontally along the wall at the height of the bath plus the margin. This line marks where new nogs will be installed.
3. Measure the distance between the existing studs determines the length of the new noggings.
4. Cut the new noggings to size and them between the studs along the marked horizontal line.
5. Now, measure the bath length and allow a 70mm margin on each end. (Providing you are using a 90mm timer, 15mm will protrude past the bath, and 20mm will sit under the lip of the insert.)
6. Cut two lengths of timber at the length of the bath plus the 140mm margin.
7. Mark on these lengths where the studs will go; divide the length by four, so you have one at each end and two in the centre that is equal distances apart.
8. Next, cut the studs for each end and the lengths of timber. You will need eight studs at the height of your marked horizontal line.
9. Start creating the frame; join the two lengths of timber with four of the studs.
10. Repeat Steps 5 to 9 so you have two length frames the same.
11. Position the two length frames into position; fix one to the wall at the marked horizontal line and the other out from the wall at the width of the bath and fix it into place.
12. Next, move on to the end frames. Measure the distance between the two length frames to determine the frame length. Cut two pieces of timber at this length and fix them together with three evenly spaced studs.
13. Repeat Step 12 for the other end of the frame.
14. Fix the two end frames into position to finish the bath frame.
15. Place the insert into the bath frame and check that everything is plumb and that the bath fits well.
16. It’s now ready for a plumber to hook up.

How to install a Freestanding/Back to the Wall/Corner Bath

Installing a freestanding, back-to-wall, or corner bath is a fairly straightforward process that anyone can do.

1. First, check the subfloor thoroughly to ensure it is level and has a waterproof layer. Make sure that the floor will support the bath’s weight and add additional support if needed.
2. Position the bath into position and adjust the bath legs so they are flush with the base of the bath. Use a spirit level to ensure the bath sits flat.
3. For back-to-wall or corner baths, run silicon along with the top edge/s that meets with the wall.
4. Call in a plumber to fit the waste into the plumbing supply
5. Apply a layer of silicone around the base of the bath and allow 24 hours for it to set.

Conclusion

A bath can truly transform a bathroom, adding style, functionality, and even boosting property value. When choosing the right bath, consider the layout of your space, the type and size of bath that best fits, and any additional features that enhance comfort and style. Freestanding baths offer a luxurious centerpiece, while insert and back-to-wall baths are ideal for tighter spaces.

Once you have your bath, it’s a matter of installing it. In this respect, insert baths are the most involved as they require the construction of a bath frame to support the bath, whereas freestanding, back to the wall, and corner baths have built-in frames and only need to be positioned, levelled and fixed into place.

Regardless of the type or size of the bath, or the location of your installation, you’re sure to find the perfect bath to suit your needs here at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Visit our extensive range online and avail of our $50 Perth Metro delivery or come into our Guildford showroom to see our range in person.