After selecting your new bathtub unit as well as a faucet, don't leave the store just yet! There are some still some plumbing supplies for your bathtub that you would still need to get, if you don’t have them at home, before you start working on the bathtub. Since, working on any home improvement project can crop up so many unexpected things, it is always nice to have all the basics handy so you won't have to run out and get them while you're in the middle of working.

The first things on your list should be an overflow and drain kit. This is what would control the drain in your bathtub. There are 2 common styles. One which functions like a lever on the face of a tub, this lever controls a stopper within the drain. If activated, the tub will hold in the water. The other style, on the other hand has either a hand or foot stopper located at the tub's flooring. Others twist close or have some sort of spring mechanism inside it.

You would also need a heavy wrench. A pipe wrench is the most ideal. Next is a Caulk and it will be used to seal the edges of the tub. Look for tubes that are labeled "Tub and Tile Sealant". You would also need some shim material this is if you want your tub to properly drain and not form a puddle at the end of you tub, you would have to make sure that your tub is properly leveled. You can use the shims to even out your tub.

You would also need some Teflon Tape which would be utilized on the male threads when you get to attaching the new showerhead or the new tub spout to the existing piping. A small roll is all you need to purchase. You would also need to use Allen Wrenches and these are necessary to help you remove the handles of your faucet as well as to place the new ones in. A pry bar is also needed and you will use thus to break your old tub free from your bathroom floor. It would also help you in lifting the new tub when you need to install the shims to make it more even leveled.

The last 2 plumbing supplies you would need for your bathtub are Plumber's Putty which would go around the opening of the drain when you place the drain piece in. You would also need a Wax Ring this is for when you need to remove the toilet to make way for the old bathtub as you take it out of the bathrooms. This is needed for when you're putting back the toilet.

So there you have it. Some of the basic plumbing supplies that you might need when you are installing a new bathtub. You may already have some of if not all of it at home, but if you don't, it is recommended that you go out and buy. Why? Because you can use these tools not just for installing new tubs, you can also utilize them in a variety of purposes for when you are improving your house.