air sealing bath tub plumbing
Air sealing bath tub plumbing is crucial to avoid air leaks and moisture.
Air leakage associated to bathtubs sitting against un-sheathed studs or to holes in the top and bottom plates are particularly common and should be fixed.
These penetrations are very problematic since they are also a source of moisture. See images (from DOE), depicting the areas that should be air sealed and insulated.
Insulation, sealing and materials
Before installing (or reinstalling) any tub you should insulate carefully the exterior walls and seal the wall surface behind it.
Do get it properly, use polyethylene foams and sheet good materials.
After installing the drain, its penetration should also be sealed with sheet goods (drywall, plywood...) and spray foam (or a silicone caulk, if the penetrations are small).
Penetrations in the floor and ceiling (namely those connected with the soil stack – the main drain pipe) should also be properly sealed.
Use a good polyurethane-based foam.
Pay also attention to possible electrical penetrations, connected to bath tubs. They too should be properly sealed.
See: Caulking Electric
See also:
Basics on home air leaks and their sealing
Sealing Exterior Walls
Chimney and Fireplace Caulking
Dropped Ceilings Sealing
Attic Air Leaks and Sealing
Sill Plate and Rim Joist Air Sealing
The best of caulking and air sealing
Caulk and Sealant Manufacturers
Caulking Products
Caulking Tips
Home Audit Basics
