BUYING GUIDE

How to Install a Bath: A Step-by-Step Guide

BUYING GUIDE

Fitting a new bath is a transformative step in any bathroom renovation, but it also requires careful planning, precision, and the right support. At LUSSO, we do not offer an installation service, so we always recommend organising a qualified installer or plumber independently to ensure your bath is fitted safely and correctly.

While installing a bath may feel daunting, it is entirely achievable with the right preparation. Most stone baths require a qualified plumber and a minimum of four people to safely lift and position the unit due to its weight.

Key considerations before you begin include ensuring your floor is structurally suitable to support the bath, and confirming whether your existing pipework is correctly positioned or requires adjustment.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to install a stone bath, including preparation, step-by-step installation instructions, costs, and essential do’s and don’ts.

We also note that this guide refers specifically to the LUSSO Picasso Bath; however, installation details may vary slightly across models. Always refer to the technical drawing on each product page for the most accurate guidance.

If you have any concerns about installation, our team is here to help - Contact our sales team on WhatsApp or email us on sales@lusso.com.

BEFORE INSTALLATION

Before you begin learning how to fit a bath, it is essential to complete several preparation steps. Proper planning ensures your freestanding bath fits correctly, is safely installed, and integrates seamlessly with your existing bathroom layout and plumbing.

Explore our full range of freestanding baths before you begin planning your installation.

1. Prepare the Area

A well-prepared space is crucial for a smooth installation process.

- Turn off the water supply completely
- Strip out any existing bath, fixtures, and old pipework
- Clear away all debris and leftover materials
- Ensure the installation surface is clean, dry, and level
- Waterproof the installation area before beginning work

A properly prepared environment reduces installation issues and ensures long-term performance.

2. Download Technical Drawings

Each LUSSO bath comes with detailed technical drawings available on the product page.

Be sure to download and review these before installation. Key specifications to check include:

  • Base dimensions
  • Void depth
  • Position of the bath waste fitting

Understanding these details is essential when planning how to install a bath correctly, especially for ensuring accurate plumbing alignment.

3. Measure Your Bathroom

Accurate measurements are essential before installation begins. Use a tape measure and carefully assess:

  • Total length and width of the bathroom
  • Usable floor space after fixtures are accounted for
  • Clearance around the bath for installation access and cleaning
  • Door swing and entry clearance

LUSSO Recommends: Decide early whether you will install floor-mounted or wall-mounted taps, as this will determine plumbing positions before installation begins.

4. Check Floor Strength

Stone baths are extremely durable but also significantly heavy. For example, the 1780mm Picasso bath weighs approximately 140kg without water.

Always check the full product specification sheet for exact weight before installation.

It is essential to confirm whether your floor can support:

  • The weight of the bath
  • The water volume when full
  • The weight of the user(s)

Ground floors with solid concrete are typically suitable. However, timber joisted upper floors require careful assessment.

A qualified plumber or structural engineer should confirm load-bearing capacity. Reinforcement may include:

  • Adding noggins between joists
  • Sistering existing joists
  • Strengthening at 90-degree load-bearing angles

Important: Heavy stone baths (100kg+) are best installed on ground floors where possible.

LUSSO Recommends: If weight is a concern, consider our alternative lightweight Acrylic bathtub range LUSSO Light, which weigh between 33–57kg without compromising on luxury aesthetic.

5. Plan Plumbing

Understanding plumbing layout is critical when learning how to install a bath.

Key elements include:

  • Waste outlet position
  • Water supply connections
  • Overflow pipe location

The supplied waste connector and flexible pipe are designed for discreet installation within the bath void and floor base. Key specifications include:

  • 40mm diameter
  • Extendable length of 840mm
  • Compatible with all British Standard bath traps

LUSSO Recommends: We suggest using a HEPVO waterless trap with an inline adapter for improved performance and compatibility.

6. Tools and Equipment Checklist

Before starting installation, ensure you have the following tools:

  • Spirit level
  • Tape measure
  • Screwdriver
  • Pencil
  • Electric drill
  • Two timber lengths (for lifting support)

LUSSO Recommends: Always cover the bath surface with a soft material such as a towel during installation to prevent accidental scratching.

7. Practical Considerations

Installation of a stone bath typically takes up to two days, depending on complexity.

Key considerations include:

  • Ensuring you have alternative bathing arrangements during installation
  • Using a qualified plumber and a minimum of four people for lifting and positioning
  • Allowing time for plumbing adjustments or floor preparation

LUSSO Recommends: Only arrange installation once your bath has been fully delivered, as lead times can vary.

How to Install a Bath: Step-by-Step Guide

Once preparation is complete, you can begin installation. Below is a clear breakdown of how to install a bath depending on floor type.

Installing on a Wooden Floor

  1. Mark the footprint of the bath base using a pencil or masking tape
  2. Bring the waste pipe up through the floor within the marked area, aligned with the bath waste outlet
  3. Lay final flooring (tiles or other finish), ensuring it is level, sealed, and waterproofed
  4. Raise the bath using two timber supports to allow access beneath
  5. Connect the waste pipe to the trap, ensuring fittings are secure but not overtightened
  6. Fill the bath halfway with water and release to test for leaks
  7. Remove timber supports carefully and lower the bath into its final position

Installing on a Concrete Floor

  1. Drill a 44mm hole in the rear cavity wall of the bath using a hole saw (this does not affect warranty)
  2. Mark the bath footprint clearly on the floor
  3. Route the waste pipe along the floor and feed it through the drilled opening
  4. Raise the bath using timber supports for access underneath
  5. Connect waste pipe to trap, ensuring a secure but not overtightened fit
  6. Test the installation by filling halfway with water and checking for leaks
  7. Remove supports and gently lower into final position

How Much Does it Cost to Fit a Bath?

The cost of installing a bath can vary significantly depending on complexity and labour.

If you are hiring a qualified plumber or full bathroom fitting team, prices will differ based on experience, location, and scope of work.

Stone baths generally cost more to install due to:

  • Their weight and handling requirements
  • The need for multiple installers
  • More complex positioning and plumbing alignment

Costs may increase further if:

  • Pipework needs rerouting
  • Structural floor reinforcement is required
  • Additional materials or waterproofing are needed

Do’s and Don’ts: Bath Installation

Do:

✔ Prepare all tools in advance
✔ Remove existing bath carefully
✔ Turn off the water supply
✔ Measure accurately
✔ Wear safety goggles
✔ Get help when lifting
✔ Follow manufacturer guidance
✔ Consult a plumber if needed

Don’t:

✘ Overtighten fittings
✘ Attempt installation alone
✘ Ignore floor load capacity concerns

The Final Result

Once installed correctly, your bath should be level, secure, and completely leak-free - ready for immediate use.

A properly fitted LUSSO stone bath becomes a long-term investment in your home, delivering:

  • Exceptional durability
  • A striking bathroom focal point
  • A luxurious spa-like bathing experience
  • Long-lasting performance and comfort

To explore more designs, browse LUSSO’s full range of luxury stone baths and elevate your bathroom space.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I fit a stone bath myself?

While it is possible to install a bath yourself, it is strongly recommended to use a qualified plumber. Stone baths are heavy and require careful handling, correct plumbing alignment, and safety considerations. Professional installation ensures compliance with structural and waterproofing requirements.

What holds a bathtub in place?

A bathtub is held in place by its weight distribution, level flooring, and secure plumbing connections. Freestanding stone baths rely on a flat, stable surface and precise positioning to ensure they remain stable and properly aligned.

Does a bathtub need support underneath?

Underneath floor support is recommended for bathtubs, especially for heavier materials like stone. The floor must be structurally capable of supporting the full load of the bath, water, and user. In some cases, additional joist reinforcement or concrete flooring is required.

How hard is it to install a freestanding bath?

Installation difficulty depends on the bath type and bathroom setup. Freestanding baths are generally more straightforward than built-in models but require careful positioning, plumbing alignment, and multiple people for safe lifting.

How are freestanding baths plumbed in?

Freestanding baths are typically plumbed through floor or wall connections, depending on design. Waste pipes are concealed beneath or behind the bath, connecting to a trap and drainage system for a clean, discreet finish.
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