60” tub in a 59 3/4” space

[michaelroemhildt]

I apologize if this issue has been addressed elsewhere, but I couldn’t locate anything.
I am remodeling our 8’x5’ bath from the ‘80s. I cut apart and removed the one piece tub and shower combination unit that was in there. I want to install a tub and tile the walls instead. I ordered Kohler Elmbrook tub which is 60“ x 30“. To my disappointment I discovered when I was getting things ready to dry fit the tub that the space is only 59 3/4 inches wide! On further investigation, I noticed that the original builder had made notches in the studs to fit the lips of the previous one piece unit. My question is; is it acceptable and or wise to take the same approach and notch the studs a quarter inch where the lip of the new tub will go in order to make it fit, or is it better to return the tub and special order a more expensive 59 3/4 inch tub and delay the project?

 

[wwhitney]

The former.

Cheers, Wayne

 

[Sponsor]

 

[John Gayewski]

It's fine to make it fit. You just don't want stress on the tub.

 

[CENTRALFL]

It will actually makes things a little easier come tile time since you'd be able to lay the backer board (cement board with water proofing or waterproof foam board are two options) and have it cover the tub lip.

Normally, you end up having to rest the backer board on the lip with sealant, or rabbit out the back of the board so the front lays over the lip.

Something like this, except you wouldn't use shims since the notch does the same job:

 

[michaelroemhildt]

Thanks for the replies. I notched the studs to make the tub fit and all is well!