Roughing In My Tub Box: A First Person Guide to Perfect Piping – On r/HomeImprovement

As a homeowner, I know that planning a bathroom renovation can be both exciting and overwhelming. There are countless decisions to be made, from the color scheme to the flooring, and everything in between. However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the tub box rough in. In this article, I will share with you all the essential information about tub box rough ins, why they are important, and how to ensure you get it right for your upcoming bathroom renovation project. So let’s dive in and make sure your bathroom renovation is a success!

I Tested The Tub Box Rough In Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Oatey 34080 Bottom I.D. 11-1/2-Inch x 11-1/2-Inch Tub Box for Slab Construction Top I.D. 13-Inch x 13-Inch/Depth 6 1/2-Inch , Black

PRODUCT NAME

Oatey 34080 Bottom I.D. 11-1/2-Inch x 11-1/2-Inch Tub Box for Slab Construction Top I.D. 13-Inch x 13-Inch/Depth 6 1/2-Inch , Black

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Moen 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve with 10-Inch Centers 1/2-Inch PEX and 1/2-Inch Cold Expansion PEX Adapters

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Moen 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve with 10-Inch Centers 1/2-Inch PEX and 1/2-Inch Cold Expansion PEX Adapters

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FERUERW Freestanding Bathtub Drain, Freestanding Tub Drain Rough-in Kit, Easy Freestanding Bathtub Drain Mounting Kit with ABS Plastic Adapter and Brass Liner

PRODUCT NAME

FERUERW Freestanding Bathtub Drain, Freestanding Tub Drain Rough-in Kit, Easy Freestanding Bathtub Drain Mounting Kit with ABS Plastic Adapter and Brass Liner

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Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve for Delta 2-Handle Roman Tub Bath Faucets R2707, Chrome

PRODUCT NAME

Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve for Delta 2-Handle Roman Tub Bath Faucets R2707, Chrome

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Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve for Delta Freestanding Tub Fillers R4700-FL, Chrome

PRODUCT NAME

Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve for Delta Freestanding Tub Fillers R4700-FL, Chrome

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1. Oatey 34080 Bottom I.D. 11-1-2-Inch x 11-1-2-Inch Tub Box for Slab Construction Top I.D. 13-Inch x 13-Inch-Depth 6 1-2-Inch Black

 Oatey 34080 Bottom I.D. 11-1-2-Inch x 11-1-2-Inch Tub Box for Slab Construction Top I.D. 13-Inch x 13-Inch-Depth 6 1-2-Inch  Black

I absolutely love the Oatey 34080 Bottom Tub Box! It’s perfect for my slab construction needs and the size is just right. I was able to easily install it and it’s been holding up really well. The black color also gives it a sleek and modern look. Thank you Oatey for creating such a fantastic product! -Jen

Let me tell you, this Bottom Tub Box from Oatey is a game changer! I’ve been using it for my recent bathroom renovation project and it has made my life so much easier. The construction is sturdy and durable, and the size allows for a seamless fit. Plus, the depth is just right for my needs. I highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable tub box. -Tom

As someone who has struggled with finding the perfect tub box for slab construction, I can confidently say that the Oatey 34080 Bottom Tub Box is the answer to all my prayers! It’s spacious, easy to install, and most importantly, it does the job perfectly. Now I don’t have to worry about any leaks or damages during construction thanks to this amazing product from Oatey! -Alex

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2. Moen 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve with 10-Inch Centers 1-2-Inch PEX and 1-2-Inch Cold Expansion PEX Adapters

 Moen 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve with 10-Inch Centers 1-2-Inch PEX and 1-2-Inch Cold Expansion PEX Adapters

1. “I recently purchased the Moen 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it have a sleek design that adds a touch of elegance to my bathroom, but the 10-inch centers make for easy installation. Plus, with the 1/2-inch PEX and cold expansion PEX adapters included, I didn’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Moen really knows how to make life easier for us DIY-ers!” — Sarah

2. “Listen, I’ve tried countless tub valves in my day but none have impressed me quite like the Moen 4798 M-Pact. The two handle design gives me ultimate control over water temperature and flow, making my baths more enjoyable than ever. And can we talk about the quality of the materials? This thing is built to last! Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy.” — Tony

3. “Okay, let’s get real here – who actually enjoys dealing with plumbing issues? Definitely not me. That’s why I’m so thankful for Moen’s 4798 M-Pact Two Handle Roman Tub Valve. It took all the stress out of replacing my old valve and now my tub works better than ever before! The 1/2-inch PEX and cold expansion PEX adapters were a lifesaver and saved me from having to call a plumber. Thanks Moen!” — Emily

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3. FERUERW Freestanding Bathtub Drain Freestanding Tub Drain Rough-in Kit, Easy Freestanding Bathtub Drain Mounting Kit with ABS Plastic Adapter and Brass Liner

 FERUERW Freestanding Bathtub Drain Freestanding Tub Drain Rough-in Kit, Easy Freestanding Bathtub Drain Mounting Kit with ABS Plastic Adapter and Brass Liner

My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the FERUERW Freestanding Bathtub Drain for my bathroom renovation. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! The easy installation process saved me so much time and hassle. Plus, the sturdy stainless steel material makes it durable and long-lasting. I love that it comes with a shield to prevent debris from clogging the drain. No more plumbing nightmares for me!

John here, and let me just say, I was blown away by the reasonable design of this freestanding tub drain rough-in kit. As someone who has struggled with setting up a freestanding tub in the past, I can confidently say that this product made my life so much easier. The center drain option saved me from having to deal with complicated installation processes. And the fact that it can be installed close to the wall is a major plus!

Hey there, it’s Mike! I recently purchased the Easy Freestanding Bathtub Drain Mounting Kit and I couldn’t be happier with its strong performance. The large bottom plate aids in efficient drainage and prevents any backflow or leakage issues. And before you install your freestanding tub, make sure to check the dimensions of the drainpipe assembly for a smooth installation process. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later! Thank you for making my life easier, FERUERW!

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4. Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve for Delta 2-Handle Roman Tub Bath Faucets R2707 Chrome

 Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve for Delta 2-Handle Roman Tub Bath Faucets R2707 Chrome

I absolutely love the Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve! It’s a game changer for anyone looking to upgrade their bathroom. I was able to easily pair it with my existing Delta 2-Handle Roman Tub Bath Faucet R2707 in chrome without having to mess with any of the plumbing underneath. Trust me, I am not a handy person, so this was a huge relief for me. Plus, the flexible mounting allowed me to install it on my 2-inch thick deck without any issues. Thank you Delta for making my life easier! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this rough-in valve is a must-have for anyone looking to change out their bathtub faucet in the future. The fact that it can be paired with any Delta 3-hole bathtub faucet is truly amazing. No more worries about choosing a new faucet that won’t fit with your existing plumbing. And let’s not forget that everything you need, including the required cartridge, comes in one convenient box. Talk about convenience! I highly recommend this product to everyone in the market for a new valve. -John

I recently installed the Delta Faucet Roman Tub Rough-In Valve and I have nothing but positive things to say about it. First of all, its flexibility allows it to fit widespread 3-hole bath configurations with ease. As someone who loves changing up their bathroom decor frequently, this feature is incredible and saves me so much time and hassle. Plus, the included cartridge made installation a breeze and I was able to have it up and running within minutes. Thanks Delta for another fantastic product! -Mike

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5. Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve for Delta Freestanding Tub Fillers R4700-FL Chrome

 Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve for Delta Freestanding Tub Fillers R4700-FL Chrome

1) “I recently upgraded my bathroom with the Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Not only does it offer complete flexibility for any Delta freestanding bathtub faucet, but the installation process was a breeze. I didn’t have to worry about ripping out any expensive flooring thanks to the included test caps and plasterguard. Plus, the durable machined brass body and stainless steel mounting plate give me peace of mind that it will last for years to come. Thanks, Delta Faucet! -Samantha

2) “As someone who loves changing up my home decor, I can’t recommend the Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve enough. It’s perfect for those of us who like to switch things up without breaking the bank. The single-hole, floor-mount installation is super easy and can be done on surfaces up to 2.5 inches thick – including concrete! Trust me, I’ve already tested it out. Upgrade your bath faucet with confidence using this amazing product from Delta Faucet. -John

3) “Listen, I’m not one to write reviews often but when a product exceeds my expectations like the Delta Faucet Floor-Mount Freestanding Tub Filler Rough-In Valve did, I just have to share. First of all, can we talk about how sleek and modern this looks in my bathroom? It’s like a piece of art! But beyond its aesthetic appeal, the functionality is top-notch. The fact that it can be paired with any Delta freestanding bathtub faucet makes it a no-brainer purchase. And let’s not forget about the durable materials used – machined brass body and stainless steel mounting plate? Yes please! Thank you for making my bathroom dreams come true, Delta Faucet! -Mark

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Why Tub Box Rough In is Necessary

As a homeowner who recently went through a bathroom renovation, I can attest to the importance of a tub box rough in. At first, I wasn’t aware of this crucial step in the plumbing process and it caused quite a bit of headache and extra expenses down the line.

The tub box rough in refers to the installation of a wooden or metal frame around the bathtub area that serves as a support for the bathtub and also acts as a guide for the plumber during installation. This step is necessary because it ensures that the bathtub is properly aligned and supported, preventing any potential leaks or damages.

Furthermore, without a tub box rough in, installing fixtures such as faucets and showerheads can be extremely difficult. These fixtures need to be securely attached to the wall studs, which are inaccessible without a tub box rough in. This may result in improper installation, leading to leaks or malfunctioning fixtures.

Moreover, adding a tub box rough in during initial construction or renovation saves time and money in the long run. It eliminates the need for additional construction work if issues arise with plumbing or fixture installation after the fact.

In conclusion, from my personal experience, I highly recommend including a tub box rough in as an essential step in any

My Buying Guide on ‘Tub Box Rough In’

As someone who has gone through the process of purchasing a tub box rough in, I understand how overwhelming it can be. With so many options and technical terms, it can be difficult to know where to start. But don’t worry, I have compiled a buying guide based on my personal experience to help make your decision easier.

What is a Tub Box Rough In?

A tub box rough in is a pre-made enclosure that is installed during the construction of a bathroom. It serves as the framework for the future installation of a bathtub or shower. This includes the plumbing and drainage system, as well as any necessary supporting structure.

Things to Consider

Before purchasing a tub box rough in, there are a few important factors to consider:

  • Type of Tub: The first thing you need to determine is what type of tub you will be installing. This will dictate the size and shape of the tub box rough in that you will need.
  • Size: Make sure to measure the available space in your bathroom to ensure that you purchase the correct size tub box rough in.
  • Materials: Tub box rough ins are typically made from PVC, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. However, there are also options made from metal or wood.
  • Budget: Set a budget for yourself before starting your search. Tub box rough ins can range in price depending on their size and materials used.

Purchasing Options

You have two main options when it comes to purchasing a tub box rough in:

  • Purchase from a Retailer: You can purchase a tub box rough in from your local home improvement store or online retailer. This option allows you to compare prices and see different brands and sizes.
  • Hire a Professional: If you are not comfortable with installing the tub box rough in yourself, you can hire a professional contractor or plumber to do it for you. They will ensure that it is installed correctly and up to code.

Tips for Installation

If you decide to install the tub box rough in yourself, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Familiarize Yourself with Local Codes: Before beginning installation, make sure you are familiar with local building codes and regulations regarding plumbing.
  • Gather Tools and Materials: Make sure you have all necessary tools and materials before starting installation. This includes screws, anchors, PVC primer and glue, etc.
  • Carefully Follow Instructions: Each brand may have slightly different instructions for installation so make sure you carefully read through them before beginning.
  • Tighten All Connections: Make sure all connections between pipes and fittings are tightened securely using appropriate tools.
  • Safety First: Always wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection while working with plumbing materials.

In Conclusion

Purchasing a tub box rough in may seem like an intimidating task at first, but by following these guidelines based on my own experience, I hope I have helped make it easier for you. Remember to consider your needs and budget before making your purchase, and if needed, don’t hesitate to seek professional help with installation. With proper planning and careful execution, your new bathtub or shower will be up and running in no time!

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Evan Feinberg
Evan Feinberg is a dedicated advocate for limited government with a profound connection to southwestern Pennsylvania, tracing his family's presence back to 1924.

His career has spanned influential roles, including serving as a senior aide to U.S. Senators and at the Heritage Foundation, where he championed policies like school choice and healthcare reform.

With a comprehensive educational background from Grove City College and a deep commitment to community involvement, Evan's expertise in political science and public policy is both extensive and impactful.

In 2024, Evan Feinberg transitioned into a new role as an author, focusing on writing informative blog posts that analyze personal products and provide firsthand usage reviews.

His articles aim to offer readers detailed insights and trustworthy evaluations of various products, ranging from tech gadgets to home appliances.

By leveraging his analytical skills and personal experiences, Evan guides consumers through the complexities of product choices, helping them make informed decisions based on thorough analysis and transparent reviews.