Set and Seal the Bathtub — Prepare the Work Area
Part of project
How to Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 1 of 8
In this video
Carefully lift and lower the bathtub into position, aligning the lubricated tailpiece with the floor drain. Guide the tailpiece straight down into the drain flange until the tub rests firmly and level on the floor. Once in place, fill the tub with a few inches of water to test for leaks. After confirming there are no leaks, apply a continuous bead of 100% silicone caulk around the entire base of the tub to create a watertight seal against the floor.
Goal: Position the tub, connect the drain, and seal the base
- Have a helper when lifting and moving the tub to avoid injury or damage to the tub or floor.
Used in this video
- Caulk Gun (Tool Type: Caulking Tools) · optional — Applying silicone caulk around the base of the bathtub.
278K subscribers
FAQs
Do I really need a specialized tub drain wrench, or can I make do with other tools I might have?
A specialized tub drain wrench, like the Husky 16PL0128, is highly recommended as it provides the necessary grip and leverage to remove stubborn flanges without damage. While you might get lucky with pliers or screwdrivers for very loose flanges, using the wrong tool can strip the drain or scratch your tub. It's a small investment that saves a lot of potential headaches and damage.
My old drain flange is completely seized and won't budge. What's the best approach to remove it without damaging my tub?
First, generously apply a penetrating oil like KROIL and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours. If it's still stuck, try tapping the wrench gently with a hammer to break the corrosion. As a last resort, consider a reciprocating saw with a metal blade to carefully cut cross-sections of the flange from the inside, but extreme caution is required to avoid cutting the tub.
What's the most critical step to ensure my new drain flange doesn't leak, and how do I properly test it?
The most critical step is applying a consistent, sufficient bead of plumber's putty around the underside of the new flange and tightening it correctly. Ensure the putty forms a watertight seal as it squeezes out. To test for leaks, plug the drain, fill the tub with water past the flange level, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes while checking the plumbing underneath for any drips.
How do I ensure the new drain flange, like the Schluter Kerdi-Drain mentioned, will fit my specific bathtub?
Bathtub drain flanges vary in size, thread type, and how they connect to the drain shoe. Before purchasing, measure the diameter of your existing drain opening and the thread size if possible, or take the old flange with you to the store. While the Schluter Kerdi-Drain is a high-quality option, always verify compatibility with your specific tub material and existing drain body to prevent fitment issues.
Set and Seal the Bathtub — Prepare the Work Area
Part of project
How to Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 1 of 8
In this video
Carefully lift and lower the bathtub into position, aligning the lubricated tailpiece with the floor drain. Guide the tailpiece straight down into the drain flange until the tub rests firmly and level on the floor. Once in place, fill the tub with a few inches of water to test for leaks. After confirming there are no leaks, apply a continuous bead of 100% silicone caulk around the entire base of the tub to create a watertight seal against the floor.
Goal: Position the tub, connect the drain, and seal the base
- Have a helper when lifting and moving the tub to avoid injury or damage to the tub or floor.
Used in this video
- Caulk Gun (Tool Type: Caulking Tools) · optional — Applying silicone caulk around the base of the bathtub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a specialized tub drain wrench, or can I make do with other tools I might have?
A specialized tub drain wrench, like the Husky 16PL0128, is highly recommended as it provides the necessary grip and leverage to remove stubborn flanges without damage. While you might get lucky with pliers or screwdrivers for very loose flanges, using the wrong tool can strip the drain or scratch your tub. It's a small investment that saves a lot of potential headaches and damage.
My old drain flange is completely seized and won't budge. What's the best approach to remove it without damaging my tub?
First, generously apply a penetrating oil like KROIL and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours. If it's still stuck, try tapping the wrench gently with a hammer to break the corrosion. As a last resort, consider a reciprocating saw with a metal blade to carefully cut cross-sections of the flange from the inside, but extreme caution is required to avoid cutting the tub.
What's the most critical step to ensure my new drain flange doesn't leak, and how do I properly test it?
The most critical step is applying a consistent, sufficient bead of plumber's putty around the underside of the new flange and tightening it correctly. Ensure the putty forms a watertight seal as it squeezes out. To test for leaks, plug the drain, fill the tub with water past the flange level, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes while checking the plumbing underneath for any drips.
How do I ensure the new drain flange, like the Schluter Kerdi-Drain mentioned, will fit my specific bathtub?
Bathtub drain flanges vary in size, thread type, and how they connect to the drain shoe. Before purchasing, measure the diameter of your existing drain opening and the thread size if possible, or take the old flange with you to the store. While the Schluter Kerdi-Drain is a high-quality option, always verify compatibility with your specific tub material and existing drain body to prevent fitment issues.