Should You Remove Your Bathtub For A Better Shower Room? Find Here
Should You Remove Your Bathtub For A Better Shower Room? Find Here from ehomeimprovementguide.com

Removing a bathtub can be a daunting task, especially if you have never done it before. However, with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a manageable project that can save you money and improve the look of your bathroom. In this article, I will share my personal experience with taking out a bathtub and provide a step-by-step guide, top 10 tips and ideas, pros and cons, and my personal review.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply

The first step in taking out a bathtub is to turn off the water supply. You can do this by turning off the shut-off valves under the sink or by turning off the main water valve to your home.

Step 2: Remove the Drain

Next, you will need to remove the drain from the bathtub. Use a drain key or pliers to unscrew the drain from the tub. If the drain is stuck, you can use a hairdryer to heat it up and loosen it.

Step 3: Remove the Faucet and Handles

If you are replacing your bathtub, you will also need to remove the faucet and handles. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the faucet and handles in place.

Step 4: Disconnect the Overflow Drain

The overflow drain is located beneath the faucet and handles. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the overflow drain in place. Once the screws are removed, you can disconnect the overflow drain from the bathtub.

Step 5: Cut the Caulking

Use a utility knife to cut the caulking around the edges of the bathtub. This will help loosen the tub and make it easier to remove.

Step 6: Remove the Surrounding Tiles

If your bathtub is surrounded by tiles, you will need to remove them before you can take out the tub. Use a chisel and hammer to remove the tiles carefully.

Step 7: Remove the Bathtub

With all the previous steps completed, you can now remove the bathtub. Use a prybar to gently lift the tub and wiggle it out of its place. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or floors.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

  1. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when removing a bathtub.
  2. Measure the new bathtub before removing the old one to ensure a proper fit.
  3. Use a reciprocating saw to cut the tub into smaller pieces if it is too heavy to lift.
  4. Have a plan for disposing of the old bathtub.
  5. Consider hiring a professional if you are not comfortable with DIY projects.
  6. Use a silicone-based caulking for easier removal in the future.
  7. Label all the parts you remove to make reinstallation easier.
  8. Consider upgrading your plumbing fixtures when replacing your bathtub.
  9. Take pictures of the process for future reference.
  10. Use a level to ensure the new bathtub is properly installed.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Save money on installation costs.
  • Customize your bathroom to your liking.
  • Improve the look and feel of your bathroom.

Cons:

  • Can be a time-consuming and difficult project.
  • May require special tools and expertise.
  • Can damage the surrounding walls and floors if not done carefully.

Personal Review

Overall, removing a bathtub was a challenging but rewarding experience for me. I was able to save money on installation costs and customize my bathroom to my liking. The process took longer than I anticipated, but with patience and persistence, I was able to complete the project. I would recommend this DIY project to anyone who is comfortable with home improvement projects and has the necessary tools and knowledge.

Question & Answer

Q: Do I need to remove the tiles surrounding the bathtub?

A: If your bathtub is installed beneath the tiles, then yes, you will need to remove the tiles to access the tub.

Q: Can I reuse the old plumbing fixtures?

A: It is not recommended to reuse old plumbing fixtures when installing a new bathtub. New fixtures will ensure proper installation and prevent leaks.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to remove a bathtub?

A: The time it takes to remove a bathtub varies depending on the individual project. On average, it can take anywhere from 4-8 hours to complete.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a professional to remove a bathtub?

A: The cost to hire a professional to remove a bathtub ranges from $500-$1500, depending on the complexity of the project.