My son needs to replace a bathtub, and his home is built on a slab. Estimates have been about $1000. My question is my husband who is very very handy is a little hesitant about dealing with a slab. How hard is it to replace the tub on the slab? Husband has already done many plumbing projects including adding a bathroom to my basement in a previous home, however he is a little nervous about this project to help my son. Can anyone help us as to the difficulty of this project.

Hi bgiacalone:

Why replacing tub.. just wondering? What kind of tub.. cast iron with tile surround, fiberglass tub-one piece, fiberglass tub - 3 PC. Wall surround??

If you are planning on swapping out old tub with one that is similar size.. not really a bad/tough job.

Tell me about tub type... I will wait for your response and post back within 5 minutes.. ok?. Mark

Hi Mark

Replacing tub because about 30years old. Not cast iron replacing with acryllic.

Hi Mark
Replacing tub because its about 30yrs old. Not cast iron will replace with acryllic. Same size.

OK... so not much to this. Husband needs to disconnect old tub waste and overflow assembly and then needs to remove the old tub. Probably a good idea to replace the shower valve at this time as well... (recommend MOEN or SYMMONS)

Now, lets get technical... after shower valve replaced, I would set the tub in a bed of structolite mortar or modified thinset mortar (reduces creaking sounds and that flex inherent with the fiberglass/acrylic units) and then install the tub waste and overflow assembly... it being a slab should not matter too much... there is adjustment in the drain.. or can be offset if needed, depending on pipes underground.

We are glad to walk your husband through this a step at a time (as he does the work) if you guys want... just let us know.. ok? POSTING PICS. OF WORK AS HE GOES would really help... if possible. Talk anytime... MARK


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Thanks Mark for your help. Will start the job on Saturday. Let u know how we make out.

Thanks... always like to hear how you guys are doing... good luck!

Hey Mark I don't have many pics but can you show our friend the drain removal tool to buy? Hubby will need it to remove and install that new drain. All I had was this and the last guy bent his channel locks. Still mad at me for showing my picture. Black & Decker Power Tools (http://www.blackanddecker.com/ProjectCenter/ProjectDetail.aspx?DOC_ID=p_2_53_16400_16418_16452 .html) BG, the othe thiung your husband should keep in mind is that the old tub is like an army tank, maybe up to 500 lbs. He needs googles, ear plugs and a 16 lbs sledge hammer to bust it up. I'd also recommend the Moen mixing valve, good ones for about $120.

I love it.. going to add that to my favorites. Exactly how I do it most of the time.. I swear!

bgiacalone:

Bob raises great point... you will need a tool to remove the tub basket (see pics for tools and definition of tub basket.. ;)... available at all home supply stores

Will need it to re-install, too.

1st pic. Is tub drain removal dumbbell wrench
2nd pic. Is a PO plug wrench
3rd pic. Explains tub waste and overflow parts.

And, is old tub cast iron? If so, like Bob (ballenger) said...a bit more involved. If old fiberglass and replacing with acrylic, not so bad....let me know.

Let us know when/if needed... all glad to help here.


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You can roast hot dogs with that one, I was thinking of the really fat one that fits into all four slots. I guess the skinny guy will do.

You mean this one.. (tub drain key)? If not... you got me.. ;) Let me know.