[Hank Weber]

My new cast iron tub is in place, next to the studs. The plumbing is hooked up. Do I need to put nails in the studs to hold the tub in place? I heard that you can pile cement around the base to stabalize it? How do I keep the tub from moving after the installL

[massplumber2008]

Hi Hank...

To stabalize a cast iron tub we usually install a LEDGER STRIP along the back wall BEFORE setting the tub. The ledger strip is usually a 2" x 4" cut to 4'6" long and centered on back wall.

This can be a bit to do. First, tub is measured so can approximate where the strip belongs... then the ledger strip is screwed into back wall. Then the tub is lowered into place to check for level front to back and side to side.

Then, if necessary, tilt tub forward and re-adjust the ledger strip (why we screwed it first! ) to be perfect. Once confirmed all is good, we nail the ledger strip in place and set the tub.

We will also install METAL shim plates under all 4 legs from the cast iron tub... this is done by marking floor where legs will be, then adding the metal plates (I use 4 inch electrical box cover plates) and then adjusting as needed when tilting the tub in and out while working on ledger strip.

I have never used the mortar to stabalize a cast iron tub... fiberglass or acrylic only here. The cast is super sturdy and when installed as I jjust presented will stay in place for decades!

The 1/2" cement board/tile on wall will lock the top of tub in place, while the 1/4"cement board/tile on floor will lock the tub in sideways! Check out this link for info. On hardiebacker cement board and proper installation:

James Hardie: HardieBacker 1/2'' backerboard

Let me know if you need more information on anything... good luck.

MARK

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[ballengerb1]

Mark really covered this quite well. We don't set a cast tub in mortar because they do not flex and creak like acrylic and fiberglass tubs do.

[massplumber2008]

Bob.. you believe that... He gave you my greenie :p

At least you gave me one beforehand... ;)

[ballengerb1]

Ain't life wonderful Mark.

[massplumber2008]

I swear Bob... I swear!