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    john7's Avatar
    john7 Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #1

    Jul 28, 2008, 08:29 PM
    Replacing your bathtub
    How can I remove my old metal bathtub (that was installed around 30-40 years ago)? The drywall was installed after the bathtub was put in and therefore the tub is stuck in between the drywall and cannot be removed without removing all the walls in the bathroom, my problem is how I could replace my current bathtub with a new one?
    Milo Dolezal's Avatar
    Milo Dolezal Posts: 7,192, Reputation: 523
    Plumbing Expert
     
    #2

    Jul 28, 2008, 10:23 PM
    Yes, bummer...

    Average tin tub is 59" long. Your wall-to-wall dimension is 60". It is tight fit.

    To remove the tub, you will have to remove at least 12" of tile around the tub. Then, you will have to cut wall on each side of the tub about 24" wide. Uncrew overflow, remove tub spout and faucet stems. If you have small bathroom with toilet next to the tub, you will have to remove toilet. Start jiggling with the tub. You have to find the right angle to flip it over first, then raise it and stand it on its short end. Get it out of the room.
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
     
    #3

    Jul 29, 2008, 03:32 AM
    Hi guys...

    Like Milo said, remove about 12" tile around the top of the tub and about 12" or to next stud in FRONT of the tub. Disconnect the waste line/tub waste and overflow assembly from underneath if possible (or from the top using tub drain removal tool). Also disconnect the tub spout, etc.

    Now, you can either try to "flip" this tub forward and out or you may be able to pull the tub forward of the studs about 6" and actually TILT the tub up and out (tilt opposite end of waste pipe UP).

    That's how I do it with heavier cast iron tubs (is your tub cast iron or steel? )... and only have to remove about 6-12" in front of tub itself (or to the next stud for patching properly).

    Tilt new tub in the same way you got old tub out, install new ledger strip on back wall, attach new tub waste and overflow assembly to tub and connect to drain pipe.

    Then replace wall with a concrete board (wonderboard or hardibacker), tape the seam between old wall and concrete board with fiberglass mesh tape and thinset mortar or mastic and then retile to match old tile as best you can.

    Remember to remove the tile a row or so higher than where you plan on having the seam between the old and new... tape seam as presented then can tile and blend all professionally!

    Let us know if you have more questions OK?

    MARK

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