Replacing a bathtub is a major project that will usually require some professional assistance. A trained
local plumber will often have to deal with old bathtubs that need to be replaced and understand the issues involved. It’s not just the obvious logistics involved in the replacement that offer the greatest challenge. Often, it’s other issues that a layman would not even think of, such as: meeting modern codes and incorporating materials into a home that may not be built for it. This all has to be achieved without compromising the vision that the homeowner has for their bathroom and how well their bathtub fits into it. If you’re determined to take a bathtub replacement on yourself, here are three top bathtub replacement tips that may help.
1. Be Prepared for the Unexpected:
Many people are unaware that plumbing in a new bathtub can have a number of unexpected consequences. It may be necessary to remove some walls to get the bathtub into position. It’s also not unusual to get the bathtub located and then discover that additional pipes need to be added. A modern bathtub is usually placed between three different walls, and those walls may need to be opened up before the old bathtub can be removed. In the case of a free-standing bathtub, new pipes will need to be installed to meet the new operating parameter of the new bathtub. It’s also important to pay close attention to load bearing beams in the walls for the placement of other necessary fixtures, such as the: toilet, sink, and bidet.
2. Have a Bathtub Removal Plan:
Most people focus on a plan to install the new bathtub and pay no attention to how they will remove the old bathtub. This will be a huge problem when the tub is being removed, especially if the house has undergone extensive alteration since the bathtub was installed. Narrow corridors, tight turning spaces, and subsequently fitted doorways can all present a significant challenge. No matter how small the project is, there has to be a plan for how the tub and any other equipment will be removed.
3. Carefully Calculate Installation Costs:
When you calculate your installation costs, make sure to plan for costs besides the bathtub. Many people ignore other costs that need to be met to get the bathroom of their dreams. Make sure to calculate costs, such as tiling, lighting, fixtures and any additional plumbing that’s required. Don’t forget to factor in the costs of labor as well as the prices of raw materials. If you fail to calculate your costs, you may run out of money before the project is completed to your satisfaction. This may mean that you end up with a nice new bathtub in a bathroom that you’re not happy with or that looks out of place.
As you can see, there are a lot of hidden things to think about when replacing a bathtub in your home. This is not a job for a hobbyist, and expert assistance is highly recommended early in the planning stages.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solution.
