[matsondt]

I had bathroom plumbing rough-in completed when our house was built. As I started to finish the basement I came to realize that where the bathtub is to go there isn't any trap below the concrete. I understand that this is a typical scenario so my question is how do I fit a trap under the bathtub w/o having to rip up concrete?

Thanks,

[massplumber2008]

Hi Matsondt...

First, pour a half gallon of water down the drain pipe... then take a flashlight and look inside. Is there any standing water? If so.. that means there is a trap present.

If not, then if this is tub install you need to break that floor up so you can install a trap and connect the tub waste assembly.

There is usually a BOXOUT in the floor for tubs... called a DAPOUT box. I take it this is not present here.. ALso, wondering what size pipe you have there? If it is 2" pipe and has trap present then this may have been piped for a shower... just wondering?

Let me know what you discover...

MARk

[matsondt]

Hi Mark,
Thanks for the quick reply.

A trap is not present. I believe the rough-in was generic in order to provide tub and sink placement options. So no dapout provided.

I believe the pipe to be 3". Aside from breaking up concrete I guess my other option is to build a platform for the tub in order to give me the space required to install a trap.

Do you know of any other option(s). Special basement tub or anything?

Thanks,
Daniel

[massplumber2008]

Hi Daniel...

I am afraid there is no quick fix for this, but I want you to know that in my experience it will take you more time to build a platform then it will to simply chip out some concrete, dig down a bit and install a proper trap. And it will be a much nicer job in the end!

Once you get a hole started with concrete the rest usually chips out pretty quick! Can rent a chipping hammer at local rental store and be done pretty quick...

Let us know if need help as you go along... ;)

MARK

[matsondt]

Thanks Mark. I'll let you know how it turns out.

[massplumber2008]

Thanks... :)