How to Install a Freestanding Bathtub: The Thales Copper Bathtub



copper tub

Installing a new freestanding bathtub in your bathroom can make a huge impact on the space. It will make an instant impression on everyone who walks in, make the space feel more open, and add elegance to transform your space in a spa retreat.

The plumbing involved will required assistance from a professional, unless you are simply replacing an old freestanding tub into the same place. Otherwise, consider hiring a professional to assist with the plumbing.

We recently had one of our Sinkology professional plumbers install a freestanding copper bathtub. We documented the installation through video along the way to help demonstrate the proper steps and provide tips that make installation a snap.

In this video, we installed:

The tools you will need include:

  • Plumber’s putty
  • Plumber’s tape
  • Chalk or writing utensil (to mark placement area on the floor)
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Silicone tube (clear or copper colored)
  • Caulk gun
  • Pipe saw (to cut drainpipes of overflow kit)
  • Needle nose pliers (to tighten drain)

Before getting started, turn off the power, shut off the water, and unplug any nearby electronics. Also, determine the final bathtub location and mark the water lines and placement area on the floor.

Pro tip: Because your new copper bathtub is metal, it can have fine edges. If you plan on placing the tub on the floor during the transition, make sure to protect your flooring with an old blanket or towel.

Tools and equipment laid out in front of a copper bathtub.

1. Gather the products being installed and the tools you will need.

A person installing an overflow drain on a copper sink.

Pro-tip: It’s usually easier to install your drain and faucet before placing the tub.

A person is applying putty around a drain opening in a copper bathtub.

2. Add plumber’s putty around the drain hole.

3. Install the drain and overflow drains.

A person applying plumber's tape to a pipe fitting.

Pro-tip: Be sure to use plumber’s tape around any threaded pipes or drains.

A person is using a wrench to tighten drain pipes on a copper bathtub.

3. Install drainpipes and overflow grid.

A person removing excess plumber's putty from around a drain hole.

4. After installing, remove excess plumber’s putty from around the drain.

5. Tighten the drain to the copper bathtub and remove any additional plumber’s putty.

6. Install the remainder of the drain and overflow kit to the copper tub. You may need to cut the drainpipes to fit your specific tub.

A person tightening a connection on a metal pipe with a wrench.

7. Ensure the overflow drain and pipes are all properly tightened to prevent leakage.

8. Install the faucet (per the manufacturer’s instructions) to the bathtub faucet deck.

A person is installing a bronze faucet onto a copper bathtub.

9. Install the handles and faucet unit.

A person installing a pipe through a hole.

10. Run the drainpipes through the floor and into the plumbing. This step is best handled by a professional.

Close-up view of water pipes connected to the underside of a copper bathtub.

11. Attach water lines to the faucet and water source. Turn on the water and test the faucet. Look for leaks in the drain fittings.

A person is applying caulk along the base of a copper bathtub.

12. Once placement is final, caulk around the tub with a clear silicone or copper-colored caulk. Allow the caulk to set for 24-hours (or timing per the manufacturer’s instructions) before using your copper tub.

13. Enjoy soaking in your new copper bathtub.



You Might Also Like:

The Sinkology Bathroom Tub Buying Guide

Before and After: A Copper Bathroom Duet


If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or crafted stainless steel sink, our Sinkologists™ are here to help. Contact us or follow us on FacebookHouzz, Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok for more helpful tips and design ideas.