How much space do you need for alcove tub?

Step 1: Frame the Alcove





Most alcove bathtubs are a standard 60 inches long and 30 or 32 inches wide, but the actual frame may be a bit larger, so measure the tub with a tape measure and make the floor space in the alcove about 3/4 inches larger than the dimensions you measure to ensure an easy fit.

What is the difference between Drop in and alcove tubs?

Drop-in bathtubs are installed anywhere a carved out deck or structure is implemented, often times in the center of the bathroom. Alcove bathtubs on the other hand, are installed in a recess, against the wall or an alcove.

What is the difference between a skirted and alcove tub?

Alcove vs skirted tubs

An alcove tub and a skirted drop-in tub are very similar, with the only difference being their installation. An alcove tub is made to fit into a space joined by three walls, whereas a skirted tub will always have one completely open side.

How far should a bathtub be from the wall?





The distance between your tub and wall should be between 15-18 inches or at least 1 foot.

What is an alcove tub installation?

The term refers to the bathtub being installed into a recess in your bathroom, which means quite commonly they are installed with three joining walls or a pocket alcove in your bathroom, with some modern designs only having two walls or a large window to remove the confined nature of this installation method.

What is three wall alcove installation?

An alcove tub is installed between three walls, has a front skirt and a tile flange. These bathtubs can be used for a tub & shower combination or bath only. They can be a soaking bathtub or have a massage system such as a whirlpool or air.

Can you install a drop in tub in an alcove?

Yes, drop in tubs can be installed in an alcove, but they’re more commonly installed in more open spaces, freestanding or jutting out from a wall. Depending on the size of the bathroom, a drop in tub installed in an alcove may provide less space; one may be able to fit a larger tub into another space in the room.

Can you make a tub deeper?



Caulk strips are a brilliant way to cover the drain to make a bathtub deeper. The best part is that they can be molded to the shape of your drain and once set, they become waterproof. Think of a caulk strip as tape. It helps make the bathtub deeper by simply covering the overflow drain.

Can a freestanding tub replace an alcove tub?

We often get asked whether it is suitable to install a freestanding bathtub in an alcove. The answer – absolutely! Freestanding bathtubs have been around for nearly 150 years, and they are still part of every day design. Available in endless shapes, colors and sizes.

How much clearance do you need around a bathtub?

While there are no code requirements for tub size, minimum clear floor space alongside a bathtub should be at least 60 inches long (the length of a standard tub) and 30 inches wide. Always allow clear space for access to plumbing and/or whirlpool motors.

How close can a freestanding bath be to the wall?



Always allow at least 200mm between the edge of a freestanding bath and the wall behind, and 300mm from each end. You’ll thank us when it comes to cleaning around it!

How close can a freestanding tub be to the wall?

The Magic Number: 6 Inches

As a rule of thumb, the minimum end-to-end (length) additional space you’ll need for a clawfoot, pedestal, or freestanding tub is 6 inches. Any less and the tub will look cramped in the space.

Do I need to tile behind freestanding tub?

While it’s not necessary to tile around a freestanding tub, if the freestanding tub is against a wall, you’ll need to protect the wall from water damage. Tile is not the only option. Alternatives include wainscot, glass brick, and mildew-resistant paint. Wainscoting on wall behind freestanding tub.

How much space should you have around a freestanding tub?



A freestanding bath should have no less than 6 inches of space surrounding all angles of the tub. By following that guideline, you can ensure your freestanding bath has a comfortable access point, and won’t appear cramped in your bathroom regardless of its design.

Can you put a freestanding tub in a small bathroom?

Yes. In addition to helping to visually extend the bathroom the sculptural silhouette and taps of the freestanding bath can become a designer feature.

Do they make bathtubs smaller than 60 inches?

A small bathtub typically measures less than 60 inches but still provides plenty of room for a soothing soak. We researched the best small bathtubs on the market, evaluating installation type, materials and design, and overall value.

What is a soaking tub?

A soaker tub does just what its name suggests: provides you with a place to soak. These tubs are typically deep and/or contoured for a comfortable bathing experience; while many soaking tubs do not include jets, some may also have air or whirlpool features.

What is the lowest bathtub height?



14 inches tall

A note on tub depth
The shortest tubs are 14 inches tall, but only have about eight inches of soaking depth. A shallow tub like this is fine for people who mostly shower, bathe children, and don’t want a tall tub to step in to.

How are alcove tubs measured?

A. Take a proper measurement from right to left side of your bathtub if you have a standing bathtub. Now measure the middle of the bathtub; this involves taking the accurate scale of both edges apart. If you have a bathtub that is enclosed with alcove, take the distance starting from an alcove’s end to the other side.

What is the standard bathtub height?

Bathtub Sizes and Measurement Tips

Standard tubs usually have external measurements around 60 inches long, 30 inches wide and 14 to 16 inches high.