Walk-in tub extension panels, also called filler kits, are what let a 52 to 55 inch Ella tub fill a standard three-wall 60 inch alcove with a clean, finished look. Tubs shorter than 60 inches include one custom-size extension panel, with a few exceptions listed below, and 60 inch and longer tubs do not need one. The panel can be placed on the left or right side of the tub, can be trimmed for out-of-square alcoves, rests on adjustable stainless steel shelf brackets that are part of the tub frame, and doubles as a handy shelf for towels, shampoos, and soaps.

Watch: Extension Panels Explained

As the video shows, the extension panels come with integrated stainless steel shelf support brackets that are fully adjustable and are an integrated part of the tub frame, giving the panel a robust and durable support system. If your alcove is out of square or an unusual size, the panel can be trimmed for a seamless fit.

Which Models Include an Extension Panel

For the Petite, use the actual width of 27.5 inches from the current spec sheet when planning; the 27 inch figure printed in the older extension-kit table of the stainless-family manual is a misprint. Our alcove fit and extension panels article and the dimensions by model table help you check the whole alcove before ordering.

What Is in the Kit

Kit contents vary by door family. Your kit matches your tub, so use this to verify nothing is missing before install day.

• Standard/Zen/Flow (Economy platform) kit: 2 L-shaped stainless brackets, 1 L-shaped plastic bracket, 2 pressure metal clips, and 4 nuts. Installation uses 3 brackets and a clamp panel, pre-drilling holes 3/8 inch oversize, 7 screws, and silicone.
• Ultra kit: 2 L-shaped stainless brackets, 7 x 1" x 1/8" bolts, 7 x 1" x 1/4" bolts, 1 x 1" screw, 9 x 1/2" nuts, 7 x 3/8" nuts, 14 medium and 14 small washers, 1 plastic washer, and 1 plastic cap.
• Outward-swing and Transfer kit: 2 L-shaped stainless brackets, 7 x 1" x 1/8" bolts, 2 x 1" x 1/4" bolts, 2 x 1/2" nuts, 7 x 3/8" nuts, 4 medium and 14 small washers.

Fitting Tips from the Ella Standard

The Standard comes equipped with an end panel for the faucet side and a 7 inch extension panel on the other side that mounts easily for a snug fit in a 60 inch alcove. If you are having an issue fitting the tub into a 60 inch alcove with the extension panel, the video recommends trimming the corner piece off the main tub apron for a cleaner, tighter fit. You can also slide the tub into the alcove using the standard end piece and apron without the end panel. On the Flow, the side panel must be cut 3/8 inch for a flush wall fit, and it attaches with magnets on the frame that meet tabs inside the panel.

Order of Work on Install Day

1. Set and level the tub first, with every leveling leg firmly on the floor. The panel is fitted last.
2. Measure the gap between the tub and the wall at the top and bottom, since alcoves are rarely square, and mark the panel.
3. Trim the panel to the wall with masking tape over the cut line to protect the finish.
4. Adjust the shelf brackets on the frame so the panel sits level with the tub deck, then secure it with the kit hardware.
5. Caulk the joint to the wall and deck with 100 percent silicone after the tile flange and wall finish are in place; see tile flange and wall finishing.

Freestanding and Double-Exposed Installs

Every Ella tub can also stand free against one or two walls. One reversible end panel is included to cover an exposed end of the shell, and a second end panel is available when both ends are exposed. Our article on freestanding and exposed-side installations covers the layouts that work.

In this clip the presenter explains why the fill kit matters from an installation perspective: the tub is set first, then the panel is cut to whatever the walls are, so an out-of-square alcove still gets a seamless finish and a place for soaps and towels. He then looks underneath to show the integrated stainless steel shelf-support brackets, which screw up and down as an extension of the frame, so the frame carries the panel and the load never rests on the silicone joint.

Common Questions

Still need help? Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support and our team will be glad to walk you or your installer through it, or call us at (800) 480-6850.