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I’ll be installing a new whirlpool type tub for the first time and could use a few tips. I’ve installed about half a dozen standard tubs, but never a whirlpool. I’m aware of the motor/pump accessibility issues. This application calls for a deck mount that will be tiled. I’ve read the brief installation instructions offered by American Standard, and they recommend setting the bottom of the tub in a mortar bed and that the lip should not carry any of the load. Any tips or tricks in setting it this way and insuring that the lip isn’t over loaded? Also, would a couple of sacks of standard mason’s mortar be adequate?
Thanks!
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Before you get that American Standard installed, check out Warm Rain, made by Great Lakes Plastics. They're located in MI Upper Penninsula up around Houghton-Hancock. Like Am Std you'll have to buy through a wholesaler but if you can make the switch it may be well worth your trouble.
They're a dream to install and are the ONLY tub/whirlpool certified by the manufacturer to hang by the lip. No bedding required. I have one installed in a household where one of the users weighs in about 250# with nary a problem - that's a 72" tub, 20" deep.
FWIW
*As a GC, I have overseen a number of tubs being installed. Usually what I'll do is determine at what height I want the finished height of the tub deck.(20-24"). Depending on the tub depth, I might build a "platform" underneath the tub, leaving at least 1" gap for concrete. The concrete should be under the entire bottom of the tub. DON'T SKIMP. Put down your concrete extra thick, push the tub down into it, stop pushing the tub down about an 1/8" above the tub deck and caulk to finish after the concrete sets. This way you will not have any pressure on the lip.My plumbers always use the quickcrete concrete mix in the yellow bags. Don't know about the masons mix.E-mail me if you need more info. Good luck.Barry
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I'll be installing a new whirlpool type tub for the first time and could use a few tips. I've installed about half a dozen standard tubs, but never a whirlpool. I'm aware of the motor/pump accessibility issues. This application calls for a deck mount that will be tiled. I've read the brief installation instructions offered by American Standard, and they recommend setting the bottom of the tub in a mortar bed and that the lip should not carry any of the load. Any tips or tricks in setting it this way and insuring that the lip isn't over loaded? Also, would a couple of sacks of standard mason's mortar be adequate?
Thanks!