For a number of bathroom-remodeling projects, I have had to install new cast-iron tubs. The real challenge is to get the tub from the vertical position (when it’s maneuvered more easily around corners and through the door) into its final horizontal position. It can be a struggle to lower these heavy units safely into place. I’ve seen people roll them into position, but there is always the risk of getting a few fingers in the wrong place, not to mention all the back strain involved.

The technique that I use takes only a few minutes to set up and allows the tub to be lowered into place carefully and slowly with little physical effort. Prior to installing the tub, a temporary 2×8 crossbar is placed about 7 ft. up (about where the shower-curtain rod normally goes) and is supported with two 2×4 posts (see drawing). These can be nailed temporarily or held with clamps. Two people are now needed, and neither has to be a weightlifter.

The cast-iron tub now can be brought into the bathroom in a vertical position. A heavy rope (I use a smooth climbing rope at least 25 ft. long) is used to lower the tub into place. First, a large slipknot is made around the front apron of the tub, the slack taken out of the rope, and the rope lashed 1-1/2 times around the middle of the 2×8 crossbar. With the slack out of the rope, the first individual maintains tension on the rope while the second starts to tip the tub. The tipping action tends to raise the lower end of the tub, so getting the tub in a horizontal position requires lowering it slowly by releasing the tension on the rope. The 1-1/2 lashings around the 2×8 provide sufficient friction to allow a controlled lowering. The second person then nudges the tub into place as it is being lowered. This technique allows a great deal of control, especially in the last few inches before the tub is placed in its final position.

I also have found this method to be extremely useful in remodel situations where the trap assembly is not readily accessible after the tub is in place and the tub with drain assembly needs to be aligned precisely with the trap for installation.

—Peter Wierzchon, South Bend, IN

Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller

From Fine Homebuilding #150