Should I Install Ceramic Tile UNDER the Bathtub ???

[DaddyMonkey]

The OLD bathtub was cast iron. It was 60"x30"x16" and an estimated weight of about 250 pounds (dry).

I'm going to be installing a jetted tub within this 3-Wall nitch/cove of about the same size (60x30x20). This new tub will be acrylic/fiberglass, which weighs less than the old cast iron tub I removed.

My question is... Would installing ceramic tile UNDER this new tub HELP with protecting against water damage to the sub-flooring... or, am I asking for future trouble by ending up with a bunch of cracked tiles?

I don't really know the weight of the jetted tub... but I will get back to you if needed. (I'm looking at the Jacuzzi Luxura 530, #N790). Thanks in advance!

God bless, David

[xrongor]

i thin layer of plastic is just as waterproof and much cheaper. which isnt to say its gonna be waterproof. tile or plastic, you would need to caulk/seal where the pipes go through. or to put it another way, you arent going to turn your floor into a submarine.

in short, the best way to protect against water damage to the sub floor is to keep the tub from leaking. once its leaked, you got a problem. its gonna go somewhere.

randy

[fatman985]

I can't think of any reason to put tile under a tub. What would be the point?

[Philip]

If you are worried about protecting the sub-floor using a membrane material (shower pan liner) would probably be easier.

[DaddyMonkey]

I have the bathroom 'gutted' and my next step will be adding tile... starting with the floor.

It's not a big bathroom (6x8ft), but I was wondering if I should go ahead and tile WITHIN the nitch/cove that the tub will soon fit into...

I plan on putting sound-deadening insulation inbetween the wall studs and then putting up roofing felt between the backer-board at the wall studs.

Can I use roofing felt (15#) on the floor?... right now, the flooring is plywood. Thanks!

God bless, David

[MAG]

DM-

I'm nearing the end of a similar project, though my old tub (also

60x30x16) was steel. When I brought out the maul to break up what I thought was an iron tub, it bounced!! It was just about murder getting that tub out.

Anyway, most whirlpool tubs are supposed to be set in mortar to support the floor of the tub. Check the installation instructions for your tub; you can probably find 'em online. I wound up using expanding foam instead; long story but it worked out great.

I advise against tiling under the tub. As others have mentioned, there should never be water under it, and there are other ways to protect the floor in the event of the odd leak.

Be careful about tub dimensions. When I was shopping around, the smallest I found was a 32 inches. I was able to make this fit. They also had 32.75 inch versions. Measure carefully.

Marc