Bath Installation Cost

Would you like to discover the average cost to install a bathtub?

In this guide, we look at bathtub installation costs for a range of different baths, including walk-in baths, shower bathtubs and freestanding baths.

On average, installation of a new bath will typically be around £650.

We also cover the cost of old bathtub removal and the cost of a bathroom fitter so you can see how much you should expect to pay in labour.

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How Much to Fit a Bath?

The average price to get a bath installed is £450-£800. This covers the removal of the old bath as well as the supply and installation of the new bath. For this price, you can get a steel or acrylic standard, double-ended, corner, or shower over bath.

There are other types and materials that you can choose which will increase the cost. At the most expensive end, you can choose a bath made from materials such as natural stone or cast iron. These tubs are expensive to buy and also more expensive to fit.

They do create a wow factor in a room and are usually only available as freestanding/rolltop models. The cost for these tubs will range from £1,600 - £10,500.

Other options that can increase the cost are whirlpool baths these range from £950 - £3,500. You will also have to pay a premium for a walk-in bathtub. These start from around £3,000.

New Bath Prices

The cost to supply and fit a bath will depend on a combination of the material the bath is made from and the type of bath you choose. The following table will give you an idea of the price you can expect to pay for supply, fitting and removal of your old bath.

These prices assume that the new bath fits in the same way as the old one, so there is no need to move any pipework.

Supply Costs Only

The cost of your bath will vary based on the type of bath you choose and the material you get it in. The following tables will give you the average prices for standard size baths.

Type of Bath

For ease of comparison, these prices are all for standard size acrylic tubs

Material

For ease of comparison, these are the prices for standard size tubs.

Additional Materials

If you are getting a standard, built-in bath, then you will also need to get bath panels. The number you need will depend on how your bath is fitted.

Additional Costs

It can often be cheaper to combine the installation of a bath with any other work you need doing in your bathroom. Some other jobs you might want to consider getting done at the same time are given here.

Towel Rail

Getting a heated towel rail can be a nice addition to a bathroom. Since it involves plumbing, it is a good job to get done along with your new bath. The average cost to get a towel rail installed is £150 - £250.

Extractor Fan

Extractor fans are required under building regulations as they can prevent the growth of dangerous mould in your bathroom. To get a fan installed costs around £300.

Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating can transform a bathroom. It is a great way to heat the room and makes it much nicer to get out of the bath. This is also a job you should do before you fit a new bath as your bath will be screwed into the ground. So, you will want to lay the heating pipes first. The average cost of installing underfloor heating is £800.

Shower

While you have a plumber installing a new bath, you could also get a new shower. You could also combine the two and have an over the bath shower fitted. The cost to install a new power shower is around £500.

Bathroom Tiling

Tiling a bathroom can be a big job. When you take out your old bath, it is not unusual for some of the tiles surrounding it to break. This can mean that it is a good idea to get new tiles at the same time. The cost of tiling will depend on how many tiles you get. To re-tile, a whole bathroom will usually cost around £750.

Labour Costs and Timescales

When you are planning your budget for your new bath, you should remember to include the bat fitter cost. If you are getting your whole bathroom done, then this will only be a small part of the bathroom fitting cost.

Removing an old bath and installing a new one is a pretty straight forward job. If there are no complications, the whole job can usually be done in 2-4 hours. You should expect to pay £250 – £350 for this. This will include the removal and disposal of your old bath.

There are some situations where the installation costs will be higher.

Spa bath will require work with electrics so will start at around £450. Walking baths also require specialist installation and will have a similar cost.

Especially heavy baths will require two people to install them so will cost £70 - £140 more.

If you need any pipes moving, then you will have to pay for you plumber's time to complete this. You should expect to pay around £70 per hour for this.

An inset or recessed bath will cost a lot more to install if you are not replacing and existing one. Either a space will need to be dug out or built. The costs for this will vary hugely depending on the exact situation.

Cost Factors of Installing A Bath

Installing a bath is a relatively simple process. If it is not part of a larger project, the costs will be mostly dependent on the type of bath you choose. Most baths cost a fixed amount to fit as it is a simple job for a trained plumber. There are a few factors that can cause the costs to be higher.

Weight of The Bath

If the bath you choose is made from an especially heavy material like stone or cast iron, then the installation costs will be higher. This is due to the fact that it will require more than one person to install this sort of bath. You may also need to reinforce the floor to support the bath, which can also add the final price.

Type of Bath

There is a very large difference in price between basic and standard options compared to more high-end choices. The most basic baths can be found for as little as £80. The average price of a bath is £300. Top of the range and specialist baths can cost between £3,000 - £5,000.

Moving the Waste and Taps

If you need to move the location of the waste and water, then this will make the job take longer. The added cost will depend on how long it will take the plumber to complete the work. You can expect to pay around £70 per hour.

Whirlpool/Spa Bath/Walk-in Baths

The installation of these types of baths is more complicated than for a standard bath. As a result, it will take longer, and usually involve a specialist. The costs for installation of these baths usually add at least £100 - £200 to the price.

What's Involved in Installing A Bath?

The installation of most baths is fairly straightforward. We have outlined the installation steps for the most common types of bath.

Installing A Standard/Corner Bath

The first thing you will need to do is turn off the water to your home. This is done by using the stop cock. Once this is done, you can start to disconnect the old bath. You need to disconnect the overflow, taps and waste. Once this is done, you can lift the old bath out.

The first step in fitting the new bath is to put together its cradle. This is the stand that holds it up and keeps it steady. This will screw into the bath.

The next step is to fit the taps into the bath. If your bath does not have holes drilled for the taps, you will need to do this first.

The waste needs to be attached to the bath next. You will need to use some silicone to secure the washer in place before you attach the overflow with a screw.

The bath is then put in the correct position and at the correct height, ready to be attached to the wall and floor. Screws are used to fix the bath in place.

It is a good idea to use a spirit level to ensure the bath is level and mark the positions of the feet and screw holes before you begin.

Also, don't forget to check that there is nothing behind the spot you intend to screw into. Apply a bead of silicone just below the top of the where the bath will go and put it back into position. Once this is done, you are ready to start drilling.

Once the screws are in place, you can attach the bath trap and waste pipe. Once this is done, you can connect the taps. This connection should be firm but not over tightened.

Turn the water supply back on and check for any signs of leaking.

Then batons are fixed to the ground running along the open edges of the bath. These batons are positioned to be just inside the top of the bath. These are then used to attach the bath panels.

The final step is to seal the edges of the bath. Silicone should be used to create a watertight seal all the way along the edges of the bath. This stops water running down the wall and getting underneath the bath.

To apply the sealant, you should first fill the bath. This stops the sealant pulling away from the wall once it is set. You can use masking tape to give the sealant a clean line on the wall.

Installing A Free Standing Bath

Installing a freestanding bath is very similar to a standard bath. There are just fewer steps. Once the bath is connected, you are all done.

Installing A Whirlpool Bath

To install a whirlpool bath, you will need to have an electrical access point. If there isn't one in the right place, this will need to be fitted once the old bath is out of the way. This job should only be done by a registered competent electrician as the risk of injury is high.

Once the bath is in place, the pump can be connected up and tested before the bath panels are put on.

Can I Install A Bath Myself?

Fitting a bath is quite straightforward. If your new bath is just replacing an old bath and there are no pipes to move and no electrics involved, then there is no reason to not install the tub yourself. Learning how to fit a bath does not take long. There may be a small amount of tiling involved, so it is a good opportunity to learn this skill if you are interested in doing so.

If pipes need to be moved, or there is a pump for a whirlpool style bath, then all the work completed needs to be compliant with building regulations. This means it should be carried out by a registered, competent person.

The other advantage of using a bathroom installer is that they will often take away and dispose of your old tub for you. This can be a hassle and is often a cheaper way to get this sorted.

Types of Bath

When you are choosing the type of bath, you want there are two main decisions to make. The first is the style of bath. You can broadly think about this as being a mix of the shape and features of the bath. The second choice is the material that the bath is made from.

Design

The design of the bath you choose is most likely limited by the space you have available. Once you know which options you can choose from, you need to consider if there are any features that are important to you, such as jets or accessibility.

Standard / Built-In Bath Cost

A standard tub will be flush against the wall on at least two sides, or as many as three. The sides not against the walls will be covered with bath panels. The taps and drain are at one end of the tub, and the opposite side of the tub is slanted for comfort. The price range for these tubs is £90 - £600.

Pros

• ✔ Plumbing is hidden
• ✔ Often the cheapest option
• ✔ The edge of the tub can be used for storage

Cons

• ✖ Fewer placement options
• ✖ Less choice in style

Corner Bath Cost

As the name suggests, corner baths are designed to fit into the corner of the room. They are an excellent choice when space is limited. They come in two options, a standard triangular tub of an offset tub with more space on one side of the taps. The price range for these tubs is £200 - £800.

Pros

• ✔ Can fit small spaces
• ✔ Lots of styles to choose from

Cons

• ✖ Standard options have less space inside

Freestanding / Rolltop Bath Cost

Freestanding baths do not have to be in the corner of your bathroom. They can be used as a centrepiece for the room. They are often viewed as being a luxurious option. The price range for these tubs is £500 - £1200.

Pros

• ✔ Wow factor
• ✔ Easier to clean and maintain
• ✔ Easy installation

Cons

• ✖ More expensive
• ✖ Often only in larger sizes

Shower Over Bath Cost

These are tubs that double up as a shower. They often come in a P shape, offering more space at the end with the shower. The price range for these tubs is £150 - £750.

Pros

• ✔ Space-saving option
• ✔ Allows both a shower and bath option

Cons

• ✖ Need a shower panel or curtain
• ✖ Can be more difficult to install

Whirlpool/Spa Bath Cost

These once decadent baths are now quite reasonably priced. These are baths that have jets built-in. There are many different jet options. You can even get built-in lights for ambience. The price range for these tubs is £500 - £3000.

Pros

• ✔ Jets
• ✔ Luxurious bath experience

Cons

• ✖ More expensive to install as may need an electrician

Walk-In Bath Costs

These are baths that have a watertight door. This allows you to walk in and out of the bath. This is a good option if you want a bath but can't safely get in and out of one. Walk-in bath prices range between £1,200 - £5,000

Pros

• ✔ Easy access
• ✔ Can have a deeper bath

Cons

• ✖ Have to wait while the bath fills and drains
• ✖ More expensive

Inset/Recessed Bath Cost

These are tubs that are mostly hidden with only the rim on show. They can either be sunk into the floor or are built into a pedestal that houses them. They have the feel of a swimming pool. The price range for these tubs is £150 - £220.

Pros

• ✔ Hidden plumbing
• ✔ Tubs are shallower so cost less

Cons

• ✖ Installation can be more expensive
• ✖ Can't easily change to another style of bath

Double Ended Bath Cost

These are baths that have the taps and drain located on the longer side of the bath. This allows for both of the short sides of the bath to be angled for comfortable sitting. In larger models, you can fit two people at the same time. The price range for these tubs is £120 - £950.

Pros

• ✔ More sitting options
• ✔ Space for two people

Cons

• ✖ May be limited due to the location of pipes in the room.

Material

The material that the bath is made from will change not only the look but also the feel of the bath. Different materials will hold heat differently and will feel differently against your skin.

Cast Iron Bath Cost

Cast iron tubs have been around since the 1800s. They most often have an enamel surface bonded to the iron. They were common in older homes but are more of a specialist item now. The price range for these tubs is £750 - £3,000.

Pros

• ✔ Wow factor
• ✔ Retains heat well
• ✔ Low maintenance

Cons

• ✖ Very heavy – more expensive to install
• ✖ Expensive

Copper/Brass Bath Cost

Both copper and brass baths are very similar in look and features. These are pure metal baths, and they have a very classic look. They are definitely a design choice for those who want a decadent and statement bathroom. The price range for these tubs is £2,000 - £4,000.

Pros

• ✔ Antibacterial
• ✔ Durable
• ✔ Environmentally Friendly

Cons

• ✖ Expensive
• ✖ Require special cleaning products

Stone Bath Cost

Stone baths can be made from a range of materials, so there are a lot of options to consider. They are a natural material, so they are more expensive, but they are very beautiful to look at. The price range for these tubs is £4,000 - £10,000.

Pros

• ✔ Durable and long-lasting
• ✔ Comfortable

Cons

• ✖ Poor heat retention
• ✖ Heavy – more expensive to install

Acrylic Bath Cost

The price range for these tubs is £100 - £300.

Pros

• ✔ Wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours
• ✔ Good heat retention

Cons

• ✖ Easily scratched
• ✖ Can be overly flexible and feel insecure

Steel Bathtub Cost

These tubs are a strong and durable option. They are made from galvanised steel so are hygienic and easy to clean. The price range for these tubs is £120 - £650.

Pros

• ✔ Strong and durable
• ✔ Excellent heat retention
• ✔ Hygienic and easy to clean

Cons

• ✖ Heavy – more expensive to install

What Size Bath?

The space you have in your bathroom will be a large factor in determining the size of the bath that you choose. The bath can fit flush to three walls, so it is quite easy to find a space to fit a tub in most bathrooms. You just need enough space to the side of the bath for climbing in and out of the tub – 1m should be plenty of space.

A good option for a small bathroom is a corner tub. These can fit well into small spaces.

When measuring the space for your bath, don't forget that tiles have thickness. This means if you measure between tiled surfaces, you will actually have a little more space for the bath than it appears.

All bathtubs are between 500 and 550mm high. The table below gives you some size options along with the average price.

Cost of Removing Bath

If you want to replace your old bath with a new one, then most plumbers will include the cost of this in the installation of your new bath. Simple having it removed, with no clean up afterwards is quite a quick and easy job. It should take no more than an hour.

You will probably end up paying the minimum charge for the time of the labourer you use. The cost will depend on your location. You should expect to pay £45 - £70. It is much more cost-effective to have this work done as part of other work, such as fitting the new items in the bathroom.

It is possible to DIY the removal of a bathtub. It is not a difficult job. You need to remove the sealant and grout around the tub. Disconnect and cap the pipes. And then take out the bath. It is common for the tiles surrounding the bath to be damaged during this process.

Most bathtubs are light enough to be carried out in one piece. However, with a cast iron tub, it may be best to break it into pieces first. This is done with a sledgehammer. It is a noisy and dangerous job, so should be done with care.

You need to pay to dispose of your old tub. Most local tips and recycling centres will take them, but there will be a charge. You will need to check your local tip to find the cost. Another option is to hire a skip. This can be a good choice if you are taking out a lot of bathroom fittings at once. The cost will depend on the size of the skip.

Hiring Someone to Install Bath Checklist

Getting a bath fitted is a specialist job. There are plenty of things that can go wrong, especially if you are installing a bath with electric pumps for the jets. Finding the right installer can make a big difference in how well the job is completed. Here are a few key things to look for when you are looking for a bathroom fitter.

• You can expect a good tradesperson to have plenty of positive reviews and recommendations.
• Look at pictures of work that they have completed before. Ideally, you will be able to find pictures of work similar to your needs. This will give you a good indication of the finish you can expect to be left with.
• Accreditation is not a guarantee of quality, but it can provide you with protection and recourse in case something goes wrong. Look for installers who are part of the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers (BIKBBI) or the Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA)

FAQs

Sources

https://moneystepper.com/save-money/cost-to-run-a-bath-or-have-a-shower/
https://victoriaplum.com/blog/posts/what-is-a-standard-bath-size
https://www.plumbworld.co.uk/blog/what-size-bath-do-i-need
https://www.qssupplies.co.uk/baths.html
https://discount.com.au/tips/pros-and-cons-of-free-standing-baths/