Building Homes or Extensions/carpentry

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Question
Hello,

I'm renovating my bathroom. I now need to build out the  walls  at each end of the tub. I would like to have the new  walls to come out slightly past the tub, then return to the existing wall. Now,  none of the existing four walls are plumb. Should I build my new walls nice and plumb, or cheat a little, so it's not as noticeable that the old walls are out of level.

Answer
Nicolas,

This depends on how you plan to finish the tub enclosure.  If you are installing a square product like tile, then the out-of-plumb walls will be accentuated.  However, if you are installing a fiberglass or similar enclosure, then it may be better to follow the existing lines of the room.

We have done these both ways, with good results.  It's really an on-site judgement call.

Best of luck, and let me know if you have additional questions.

--Steve Major

Building Homes or Extensions

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Stephen Major (Owner--Major Design Group)

Expertise

I can answer any questions regarding the design and construction of homes and additions. This includes trade-specific questions (how-to) in all major building trades: framing, foundations, site prep, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, water treatment, interior finishing, trim & cabinetwork, exterior finishing, roofing, siding. PLEASE indicate your state or region, so I can provide the best possible answer.

Experience

25 years experience in building design and construction, all hands-on, including the construction of dozens of single-family homes and hundreds of remodeling projects in the northeastern US.

Publications
Author: "Architectural Woodwork - Details for Construction" published by Van Nostrand Reinhold (now Wiley).

Education/Credentials
BS Cornell University.

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