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

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

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.

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

1. Measure the alcove length wall to wall at the tub deck height, not just at the floor.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

Common Questions

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.