Phone:
(701)814-6992
Physical address:
6296 Donnelly Plaza
Ratkeville, Bahamas.
Replacing a standard porcelain enamel bathtub requires some plumbing and drywall skills. For most replacements this can be a do-it-yourself project.
The first requirement is to assess the job. Are the walls covering the bathtub tile or some other material?. If tile a few rows of tile need to be removed to lift the tub out be careful if this is old tile that is hard to replace. If sheet vinyl or other full sheet material all panels must be removed.
Measuring Your Bathtub
Measure the old tub once the tiles or wall enclosure is removed. Measure the length from top edge to edge. Measure the width from the same and the height of the bathtub from the floor all the way up to the top edge. Write these measurements down you will need them for your replacement tub.
Removing The Old Bathtub
You will need to remove some plumbing first starting with the overflow cover just above the bathtub drain. Then remove the tub water spout.
The spout is either a twist off counter clockwise or a compression fit in which you will need an allen wrench to remove. Next remove the drain from the bathtub. To do this you will need a drain removal tool called a Drain Plug Tool available at your local Lowes or Home Depot store.
Now remove any water board or drywall that may be overlapping the edges of the bathtub and at this point you should be able to lift the tub out starting on one side.
Ask someone to help you if needed. Avoid damaging any plumbing or waterlines.
Installation Tools And Materials Needed
• A pry bar
• Hammer
• Screwdrivers
• Wrench or pliers
• New bathtub
• Waterproof membrane or water board
• Caulking
• Teflon tape and connectors
Safety
Turn off the water at controls. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Clear the area of all debris. Find help to remove heavy objects.
Installing the New Bathtub
Install any missing or damaged drywall. If needed install new water board for reinstalling tiles. These materials should extend to the edges of the tub so tiles or other wall coverings can overlap the tub edging.
Make sure the installation area is smooth and level. Clean the area thoroughly and then set the new bathtub into place. Make sure the tub is centered and level. You can use wooden shims to level if necessary.
Connect the drain and overflow first, then install the bathtub surround or tiles. Seal the edges of the tub with high-quality caulk or grout to prevent water leaks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely for best results. Install the water spout when finished.
Disposal Of Old Bathtub And Final Inspection
Properly dispose of the old bathtub if possible by recycling the metal. If not possible place in a landfill. Inspect the installation for proper fit of plumbing fixtures, fill bathtub with water and test drainage. Once walls or tile are installed properly caulk the bathtub.
