What is the best way to repair or replace a corroded (and leaking) bathtub drain? We have been advised by a plumber to buy a liner. Is this our only option or is there something else available?

That plumber want you to send his kid to Harvard. The drain can be removed with a tub removal tool that cost about $15. You can buy a new drain kit for abouth the same price. The leak is likely right at the lip where it seals around the tub so buy A $1 can of plumbers putty to form a small rope seal for the drain before you tighten the new drain.

Ballenger is on point unless there is more to it then you described

That plumber want you to send his kid to Harvard. The drain can be removed with a tub removal tool that cost about $15. You can buy a new drain kit for abouth the same price. The leak is likely right at the lip where it seals around the tub so buy A $1 can of plumbers putty to foam a small rope seal for the drain.

How can you say that without knowing just how advanced the 'corrosion' is?

A small chip around the drain of an enameled steel tub can blossom into a major canker in as little as two years -- Less if the faucet has a persistent drip.

As for options -- A liner is a stopgap measure, as the rust will persist under the liner and eventually undermine the new liner.

Frankly, I'd bite the bullet and just replace the tub with anything but another enameled steel tub.

Our bathtub is corroaded and now has a hole, should we refinish it or replace it?

Hi etorres

Replacement would certainly be the best, but it really depends on the condition of the surrounding area/tiles/walls, etc. and exactly where the hole is (up high in tub or in the tub floor), right? More info. Here would help!

Depending on the location of the hole, a quick fix that may buy you months/years to come is to purchase some SOIL SEAL (available at most home repair stores or online)... see image, and some PORC-A-FIX... see image.

The soil seal fills the hole (read the can... tub crack filler) and the porc-a-fix puts a new porcelain finish over the soil seal patch to blend things in quite nicely... ;)

Let us know what you think, OK?

Mark

our bathtub is corroaded and now has a hole, should we refinish it or replace it?

Hi etorres; and Welcome to The Plumbing Page. At AskMeHelpDesk.com. You're responding to a 5 year old dead thread Look in then upper left hand corner of the first post form the date in the first post before you post, Thanks,
Great advice by Massplumber. Where is the hole and how large is it? Back to you, Tom