People consider bathtub replacement only when the old bathtub is either damaged or looks old-fashioned. In case, you are bored with your old-fashioned tub and need something more fashionable, you can check out the deep soaking bathing tubs that are available in many shapes, sizes and configurations. You just need to select one that goes well with the interiors of your bathroom. Buying a bathtub and having it installed is surely going to increase your bathroom remodeling costs to a great extent. If you don't wish to spend a lot of money, you can replace your old bathtub on your own. Here are instructions for carrying out this task.
How to Replace a Bathtub
Things You Will Need Phillips screwdriver Straight screwdriver Adjustable wrench Hammer Cold chisel Skids PVC pipe cutter PVC joint cleaner Plywood Instructions Shut off the main water supply. You need to check out the drain connections from the old tub and access the piping. For getting an access to the plumbing, you might have to remove the paneling or remove a section of the wall.
The drywall surrounding the sides of the tub needs to be removed. Once you have cut the required area of the drywall, pull it out using a crowbar so that you get access to the wall studs. Use the adjustable wrench for unscrewing the pipe from the drain. Unscrew the waterline connections from the back of the faucet. Remove the nozzle from the pipe and get rid of the drain strainer.
The stopper must be lifted and taken out. Disconnect all the other attachments. Once you have removed the nuts from the hot and cold faucets, take the faucet out with a sliding motion. Use a cold chisel and hammer for taking out the tile or wall covering around the tub. If you have an acrylic bathtub, it could be cut into pieces, but if you have a cast iron tub, you might need to use a sledgehammer. In case the tub is supported by plastic rivets, you need to drill them out.
Take a utility knife and cut the edge and loosen the caulk. Move the tub away from the wall. Now that you have removed the tub enclosure, use the skid to slide the old unit. Once you bring the new tub into the bathroom, inspect the tub's backboard. It is advisable to find out if the cement backer board needs to be replaced. After placing the new tub at its position, pay attention to the alignment of the plumbing and drain pipes. Take steps to ensure that there is no rocking motion and the new tub unit is secured well.
Once the tub is level, you need to connect the drain and water supply piping to it. You need to reattach the drain, faucets and spouts. While you reattach the faucet, it is advisable to plug the drain so that no debris falls into it. This is to ensure that the drain doesn't get clogged. Turn the water supply on and check if there is any leakage. Installation or replacement of a bathtub cannot be called a simple DIY task. You must try it only if you have some knowledge of plumbing. If you are confident about your plumbing skills, you can follow the aforementioned instructions.
