Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Bathtub installation

I'm trying to install an American Standard recessed bathtub on the subfloor of the second floor.
Do I need to lay mortar, or can I just support it on the stud framing?

Sean Currie,

A brand name doesn't help unless you followup with more specifics. I would assume that you have or are purchasing a specific unit. Either the salesman should have information for you or the installation instructions will direct you.

If we are talking about the Ardennes - that is cast iron and has adjustable feet for placement. This does not require any mortar base for support.

Unless you are asking about a fiberglass/acrylic unit which should have a proper support under it. This is usually recommended by the manufacturer but is not always required.

Hope this helps!

thank you,
the tub i am purchasing is the american standard princeton recess bath made of americast material.
i took the installation instructions from thier web site, but it is not clear if i need to lay a mortar bed on the subfloor.
some books that i read suggest laying some kind of mortar bed, but i am not sure if: 1. i should do so, or 2. how to lay the bed.
any suggestions?

Sean Currie,

This particular tub DOES NOT require any additional support other than the ledgers placed on the wall. You should not have any trouble with the installation as per the instructions.

The choice to add additional support is yours. If you do, I would use a 5 gallon pail of joint compound, dump it in the middle of the tub area and just set the tub. Let the weight of tub, with a little help, and make sure the tub is flush with the floor and ledger - ensure that tub is LEVEL. Joint compound would be the easiest to use, simple and cheap. No need to do anything special.

Good Luck!

Many thanks - I'll let you know how it goes.

Sean Currie ,


Thanks, I hope all goes well for you and keep us informed!

Good Luck!