Will it fit my alcove? Extension panels, end panels, and 60 inch spaces
Updated September 2026
Yes, an Ella walk-in tub will fit your alcove. Every model is designed for the classic three-wall alcove where a standard 60 inch bathtub used to sit, and each one can also stand against one or two walls. The quick answer on alcove fit: most 52 inch and 55 inch long models include a factory extension panel that fills the gap in a standard 60 inch alcove, while the 60 inch and longer tubs fill the space on their own and neither need nor offer one. This guide lists the extension panel for every model, explains end panels, and walks through the planning steps that make an alcove installation go smoothly.
Which Models Include an Extension Panel
| Model | Tub length | Extension panel for a 60" alcove |
|---|---|---|
| Standard, Zen, Flow | 52 3/4" / 52" / 48" | Included |
| Ultra | 52.125" | 7" panel included |
| Elite, Petite, Royal | 52" | 7" panel |
| Deluxe | 55" | 4" panel |
| Capri | 52" | 8" panel |
| Monaco | 52" | Available |
| Lounger | 59" | Available |
| Transfer26, Transfer30, Transfer32 | 52" | 8" panel |
| TransferXXL | 55" | 5" panel |
The panel is trimmed on site, so it also copes with an alcove that is slightly out of square. For the full model-by-model kit details, see extension panels and filler kits by model.
Models with No Extension Panel
These tubs are already full length or are configured differently, so no extension panel is offered: Ultimate, Standard60, Zen60, Transfer60, Big4One, ShaK, Front Entry, Mobile, and all two-seat models (Tub4Two, Companion, Escape, Big4Two). If your alcove is longer than one of these tubs, your installer can frame and finish the remaining space. A 60 inch tub such as the Ultimate is actually 59.5 inches long, so it fits a 59.5 inch opening.
See How Extension and End Panels Work
Chapters in this video
- 0:00 Reversible End Panel Included Every Ella walk-in tub includes one reversible end panel that can be placed on either side of the tub.
- 0:36 Extension Panel for Tubs Ella walk-in tubs under 60 inches long come with an extension panel to fit a standard 60-inch alcove.
- 1:08 Removable Front Apron Ella walk-in tubs feature a removable front apron with access panels for plumbing and component service.
- 1:30 Removing Panels Before Moving All removable panels must be taken off before the walk-in tub is moved into the house and bathroom.
This short video explains that every tub ships with one reversible end panel, placed on the side opposite the corner to cover the plumbing and frame, and that a second panel can be purchased when both ends are exposed. Tubs under 60 inches long include an extension panel that can go on the left or the right to fit a 60 inch alcove, and you can opt out of either panel at order time. It also shows the removable front apron with its two access panels, attached by clips, screws, hook-and-loop strips, tape or magnets depending on the model, and reminds you that all removable panels, aprons and extension panels must come off before the tub is carried into the house.
Chapters in this video
- 0:00 What Are Extension Panels? Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs use extension panels to create the best fit for your new tub in your home.
- 0:14 Trimming Panels For Fit Extension panels can be trimmed to ensure your tub fits seamlessly and beautifully, even if your alcove is out of square.
- 0:29 Panel Storage Space The extension panels provide a convenient place for towels, shampoos, soaps, and other bathing items.
The second video focuses on the filler kit itself: the panel can be trimmed to fit an out-of-square or unusual alcove, placed on the right or left of the tub, and it doubles as a handy shelf. It rides on integrated adjustable stainless steel shelf support brackets that are part of the tub frame, so the panel and its silicone bead stay put for years. Watch: Ellas Bubbles: Extension Panels or "Filler Kits" For Alcove Installation with chapters and a full transcript.
End Panels and Exposed Sides
- One reversible end panel is included with your tub, so the finished end can face either direction.
- If your installation exposes both ends of the tub, a second end panel can be purchased.
- The Ultra also includes a reversible end panel along with its 7" extension panel.
- End panels do not add length to the tub; only the extension panel fills the alcove gap.
- No Ella model is truly freestanding on all four sides. If the long back side will show, ask the team about a panel for that side before ordering, and read freestanding and exposed-side installations.
Planning Tips for Alcove Installations
- Measure the alcove length wall to wall at the tub deck height, not just at the floor.
- Check the door side. A right-side door pairs with drains on the left and connects to the house drain on the left, and vice versa, so confirm which side your house drain is on with your installer. Our guide to choosing left-hand or right-hand covers this decision.
- Preserve service access. An alcove hides the tub sides, and the front apron access panels become the main service route, so ask your installer about adding wall access panels on the plumbing end. See planning service access.
- For wall finishing, an aftermarket tile flange strip (any 1/8" or 3/16" rustproof waterproof strip about 5" tall) is glued with 100 percent silicone, overlapping the tub edge by 2", and your tile or wall panel then overlaps the flange. Full details are in tile flange and wall finishing.
- Confirm the actual exterior size on the spec sheet rather than the rounded name; the dimensions by model table lists every one.
Thinking About a Recessed or Below-Floor Drain?
Please talk to us before cutting anything. Cutting the apron or end panel for a below-subfloor drain recess voids the warranty on the altered parts, so we want to help you plan an approach that protects your coverage. Our article on lowering the tub and recessed installations explains the options.
Related Guides
- How Ordering a Walk-In Tub Works When Your Contractor Is Involved: Spec Sheet, Fit Check, Door Side and Delivery
- Will a 60 Inch Tub Fit a 60 Inch Alcove? Stud Walls, Finished Walls and Doorway Clearance
- Replacement Extension Panels Come With Their Mounting Arms, and Why the Panel Must Never Be Glued On
- End Panel Too Long for the Opening: Trimming It to Fit
- The Extension Panel: What Ships With Your Tub, Where It Installs, and When to Set It Aside
- Getting an Extension Panel When Your Alcove Is Wider Than Your Tub
Common Questions
What fits a 58.5 by 29 inch space?
What is the exact length of the LayDown60?
Is there a 36 by 60 tub?
Can the extension panel go on either end of the tub?
My alcove is longer than 60 inches. Can I use two extension panels?
Will a 52 inch tub fit a 53 inch opening?
I have a 48 inch alcove. Is there anything that fits?
Do I need the end panel in a three-wall alcove?
How big is the extension panel, and can it be cut?
How do I get a replacement or extra panel later?
Still need help? Open a support ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support and the team will be glad to confirm the exact numbers for your model, or call (800) 480-6850.
About this guide. Answers in the Ella’s Bubbles Support Center are compiled from real conversations with tub owners, our technicians’ notes and the product documentation, then reviewed by our team. Tub models and options have evolved over the years, so a detail here may differ slightly from your exact tub. If something looks different on yours, send us your serial number and a specialist will confirm it for your model.
Did this solve your question?
If not, open a ticket and our team will pick it up from here.
Open a Support Ticket
Videos