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What is a bathtub?

A bathtub is a bathroom vessel for washing the body, supplied with clean water and a drain for used water. The 2024 International Plumbing Code specifies a waste outlet at least 1 1/2 inches across and a watertight stopper; include both in the proposed plumbing scope.

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At a glance

By InstaBids editorial team with AI research agents. Updated

What this means for your home project

  1. Identify whether the proposed accessible tub uses a removable seat or a permanent seat at the head end; put that choice on the layout drawing. Source: U.S. Access Board, read 2026-11-06.
  2. Request a written plumbing scope identifying the waste-outlet diameter, and ask whether it meets the locally applicable version of the model-code minimum. Source: International Code Council, read 2026-11-06.
  3. Add the stopper to the written fixture schedule and ask the installer to describe how the proposed fitting retains bathwater. Source: International Code Council, read 2026-11-06.
  4. For an accessible bathtub layout, mark the control-access and seat-transfer space on the drawing so the proposed clearance has a visible purpose. Source: U.S. Access Board, read 2026-11-06.
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Does a bathtub require an overflow drain?

Bathtub overflow piping is addressed conditionally in the 2024 International Plumbing Code: section 407.2 says "Where an overflow is installed in a bathtub". The provision describes how that overflow connects and drains. Confirm the locally adopted code before treating this model-code wording as a requirement for your home. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“Where an overflow is installed in a bathtub, the piping from the overflow outlet shall be connected upstream of the fixture trap.” (source) “The overflow outlet shall discharge to the trap whether the waste outlet is closed or open.” (source)

What is the standard drain size for a bathtub?

Bathtub waste outlets have a minimum diameter of "1 1/2 inches (38 mm)" under section 407.2 of the 2024 International Plumbing Code. The same provision calls for a watertight stopper. Ask the installer to identify the applicable local code and describe both items in the written scope. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“Bathtubs shall be equipped with a waste outlet that is not less than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) in diameter.” (source) “The waste outlet shall be equipped with a watertight stopper.” (source)

Do the Standards specify the height of bathtub walls?

Bathtub wall height has no specified value in the ADA Standards, according to the Access Board. The guide distinguishes wall height from tub-seat height, which is "17″ to 19″". For an accessible bathing design, discuss the rim and seat together rather than assuming the seat range sets the rim height. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“The Standards specify the height of removable and permanent tub seats (17″ to 19″) but not the height of tub walls or rims.” (source) “The outside tub wall should be the same height as permanent tub seats for easier access.” (source)

Is a vertical grab bar required by the Standards?

Vertical bathtub grab bars illustrate a difference between accessibility standards. The Access Board says the ADA Standards do not require them, while ICC A117.1 calls for an "18″ minimum vertical grab bar" at bathtubs and transfer showers. Ask which standard governs the proposed accessible bathing layout. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“The ADA Standards do not require a vertical grab bar at bathing fixtures.” (source) “Vertical bars are helpful and provide support when stepping into bathtubs or showers.” (source) “The ICC A117.1 standard, which is referenced by the International Building Code, requires an 18″ minimum vertical grab bar at transfer showers and bathtubs.” (source)

Must grab bars have a peened or other textured surface?

Bathtub grab bars need not have a particular texture under the ADA Standards. The Access Board says the Standards do not require "peened or textured surfaces". A textured finish is therefore a separate selection question; the quoted ADA guidance does not make that finish a condition of compliance. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“The Standards do not require grab bars to have peened or textured surfaces.” (source)

How is the length of grab bars measured?

Bathtub grab-bar length is measured "to the centerline of the return" under the convention described by the Access Board. Bars attached away from their ends use a different endpoint: the end of the bar. Identify the attachment style before comparing a product drawing with the proposed layout. (Read 2026-11-06.) (source)

“Grab bar length is measured to the centerline of the return, consistent with industry convention.” (source) “This also applies to post-mounted grab bars.” (source) “When attached at points other than the ends (e.g., “European” style grab bars), the length is measured to the end of the bar.” (source)

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