~ This is a featured post ~
Replacing a
bathtub is not a complex process contrary to what many may think. It is a
surprisingly common do-it-yourself project, assuming you don’t need to alter
the plumbing installations like the faucet location or moving the drain. Here
is how you can replace your bathtub in 6 easy steps.
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| Source: Pinterest |
Verify
the Dimensions
Before you buy a replacement tub, verify the
dimensions of the space where the new one will be going in. Don’t forget to
check the locations of the existing plumbing fixtures, since the drains should
match up and you don’t want a tub so tall that the existing faucet can’t drain
into it. Don’t overlook dimensions like drain sizes and pipe dimensions.
Floor supports, too, need to accommodate the
new tub. Make sure you don’t try to install a heavy antique tub if the floor
cannot support its weight.
Consider
How You’ll Remove It
Before you decide to remove the tub, consider
how you’ll remove the existing one. If you detach it from the floor and walls,
will you be able to carry it out the existing doorway? Or do you need to get
tools to cut the old tub into sections so that you can remove it? You’ll also
need to figure out how you’ll get the new tub into the bathroom before you buy
it too.
Take
the Necessary Precautions
Turn off the water supply to the bathroom
before you start ripping out a tub. This ensures you don’t flood the bathroom
if you damage a water line when removing the old tub. If there are electrical
connections around the tub like an in-tub heater, disconnect the power to that
area as well.
Remove
the Old Tub
Open a faucet that is below the level of the
tub to drain water supply lines so that you don’t end up with water
in the pipes pouring into the bathroom during the removal process. Now remove
the faucet, drain and spout. Remove the old tub. Clean up the area and make
sure you haven’t damaged any piping. Check your dimensions again in case you
need to cut the piping.
Install
the New Tub
This is the time to install the new tub. You’ll
put in the new tub and then start connecting the water pipes and drains. You
can learn more about how to install plumbing connections and other DIY projects
at theplumbinginfo.com. This process is easier with a
freestanding tub than one installed in a tile enclosed space.
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| Source: Pinterest |
Clean
Up
After you’ve installed the new tub in a
conventional bathroom, you may need to apply new caulk so that splashed water
doesn’t damage the drywall under the tile wall or apply seals to the boundary
between the tub and tile floor. Clean up the dust, the putty, the paint and
other items leftover from the project. This ensures that you won’t slip on
sawdust or spilled water when you try to get into the new tub the first time
you try to enjoy it.
