Want to replace the old bathtub with a newer, cleaner model but don’t know how? Fortunately, the bathtub replacement procedure is surprisingly simple. But, first and foremost, ask for help-whether a professional or just a friend to aid you with the heavy labour- because you will definitely need it. Moreover, keep in mind that safety always comes first, especially with a project involving something like bathtub replacement.
Bathtub replacement: How to do it?
Gather the tools required
First, you should not attempt any aspect of this operation without wearing adequate eye, ear and facial protection. Unless you are a seasoned practitioner, you must wear gloves. Aside from protective clothing, you will need:
- A wrench that can be adjusted
- A variety of pry bars
- Various sizes of screwdrivers
- Pliers
- Channel-lock and slip-joint pliers
- Hammer
- Wrench for sockets
- A keyhole saw or a comparable cutting tool, such as a utility knife
Prep the area
Turn off the water and electricity, then remove any other obstacles from the space, such as the toilet or vanities, if there isn’t enough room.
Remove the drain, faucet and other attachments
- Now that the water is turned off and the space is ready, you may begin by disconnecting the drain, tap and other bathtub attachments. This step may differ depending on the type of drain you have because many tub drains have different components that must be carefully removed first, but many have easy-to-unscrew tops that enable you access to the drain flange on the bottom. You will need a specific tool supplied at your local hardware store to remove the drain flange now that it has been revealed.
- After the flange has been removed, use a screwdriver to remove the waste and overflow valve covers off the sides of your tub. The next step is to obtain access to the underside of your tub, which can be done from behind a wall or from the floor below the bathroom. To disconnect the pipes below the T-shape where the drain and overflow valve intersect, get a set of channel lock pliers.
- Once the nut connecting the drain pipe has been loosened, unscrew it by hand and lift out the entire part. Now that the key components have been removed, just remove your tub spout so it does not block your installation. Many screws come with screw directions that keep them in place, but if they don’t, simply twist and turn anticlockwise.
Separate the tub from the wall
- With the piping and drains in place, you can now remove the old tub from the wall. Begin by measuring and drawing a guideline around the existing tub. Following that, cut a section 6-7 inches above the existing guideline on either side of the tub being added.
- Clear the wall so that one can get to the screws and nails that hold the tub flange or lip to the wall. Using a pry bar and a utility knife, remove the screws and nails around the top and sides of the tub. This is also an excellent time to remove any trim shaping on your corner and clean up any caulk in the area.
Remove the old tub
It is highly advisable to seek help with this next step before proceeding, as it can be rather risky alone. To dispose of your old tub, gather a few 2x4s and have one person raise the tub while the other slides it onto the 2x4s, allowing the tub to rise off the floor while also acting as slides. The stringer piece is a crosspiece of wood that supports the edge of the bathtub and maintains the installation above the tub. You must also remove any stringer supports that remain on the wall. Now that the area is clear, it’s possible to sweep away any dirt or loose nails before installing your new bathtub.
Choose a correct bathtub
To identify the type of tub that is required, measure the width and depth of the space that’s available. If you don’t want to move or rearrange the plumbing, simply follow the direction of the drain opening. If the drain opening is on the left side of the space, it requires a left drain tub; if it’s on the right, it will need a right drain tub. Some plumbing work will be required for those who simply want a new bathtub, independent of direction. Also, before installing, make sure that the floor is level, and if not, apply a levelling solution to even it out.
Protect the tub during the move
Although this step mostly applies to porcelain and fibreglass bathtubs, it is an excellent practice to safeguard the bathtub from fractures and drop impacts. So, keep the new bathtub wrapped before installing it, and when you remove it, cushion it with cardboard to avoid any exposed surfaces from being damaged before installation.
Secure the new tub
With help, position the new tub upon the 2x4s that were used to remove the old tub and push it into place, using the same approach as before. Check the levels and, if required, use spacers to balance it out–you want no gaps between the bathtub and the wall once it is entirely attached. Now, using a pencil, mark the reference line of all the studs surrounding the bathtub. After that, remove your tub and set it away.
Install a new stringer
With the studs and screws indicated, measure the height of the bathtub and the distance below the reference line on each stud. This will be the top edge of the new stringers that one will need to install. Cut several 2x4s to the length of the new tub and fasten them to the studs on your new reference marks with deck screws.
Attach the overflow drain/install a new bathtub drain
- To begin, you must turn the tub on its side and install it as directed by the manufacturer. Wrap a piece of plumber putty or another loose-based polymer around the underside of the new drain flange after that. Place the drain shoe on the tub’s underside and screw the drain flange into the new threads. Remove any extra putty with the drain tool that is used to remove it.
- To connect the overflow valve or drain, install a rubber gasket on the overflow elbow pipe and position it below the bathtub, then attach the cover plate on the inside. Connect the overflow and drain pipes, resulting in an intersecting ‘T’ configuration. To finish, screw the drain strainer onto the flange.
Secure the new tub and test it out
After having finished with the plumbing, gently reinstall the bathtub. If everything is done correctly, the drain flange should rest on the stringer inserted along the back wall. Additionally, the drain and overflow piping from the bathtub should be aligned with the rough-in drain outlet in the bathroom, specifically the drain along the floor. At this point, make sure to connect all of the pipes and tighten them securely. Reattach the spout and shower accessories and test your bathtub.
FAQs
How to ensure proper ventilation during the replacement?
Ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans to prevent fumes from adhesives and paints.
How is the liner installed?
The liner is custom-made to fit the tub. It’s secured using adhesive, and trims are added for a finished look.
How to handle plumbing during replacement?
Turn off the water supply, disconnect pipes and drains and cap them to prevent leaks. New plumbing might be required if the new tub’s layout differs.
Can the old drain and overflow be reused?
It’s recommended to replace these components for proper fit and to prevent leaks. However, some replacements may be compatible with existing fixtures.
How can the tub’s caulk and sealant be safely removed?
Use a utility knife to carefully cut through the caulk and sealant, ensuring that it doesn’t damage the tub or the surrounding area.
Can you replace a bathtub by yourself?
It is possible to remove and install a new bathtub by yourself. With careful preparation and the assistance of a helper, many people can successfully complete this DIY project within a day.
How difficult is it to replace a bathtub?
Replacing an old bathtub with a new one can be a fairly challenging project. During the removal process, a significant amount of wall tile may be damaged. The difficulty level also depends on the accessibility of the old tub. If the old tub is easily accessible, the project may progress more smoothly. However, if you need to open up a wall to remove the old tub and position the new one, the task becomes considerably more difficult.
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