Removing A Bathtub - Home Bathtub

Removing a Bathtub: A Comprehensive Guide

Bathtubs can be a great addition to any bathroom, providing a relaxing and luxurious way to bathe. However, there are times when a bathtub may need to be removed, such as when it is damaged, outdated, or simply taking up too much space. Removing a bathtub can be a challenging task, but it is certainly doable with the right tools and knowledge. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the steps of removing a bathtub, from preparation to disposal. ###

Step 1: Prepare the Bathroom

Before you begin removing the bathtub, it is important to prepare the bathroom. This includes: *

Turning off the water supply:

Locate the water shutoff valves for the bathtub and turn them off. This will prevent water from leaking out while you are working. *

Removing the drain cover:

Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the drain cover from the bathtub. *

Disconnecting the drain:

Loosen the nuts that hold the drainpipe to the bathtub. Be careful not to drop the nuts into the drain. *

Removing the overflow plate:

If your bathtub has an overflow plate, remove it by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place. ###

Step 2: Remove the Bathtub Surround

If your bathtub has a surround, you will need to remove it before you can remove the bathtub itself. To do this: *

Remove the caulk:

Use a utility knife to cut the caulk around the edges of the bathtub surround. *

Pry off the surround:

Use a pry bar to pry the surround off the wall. Be careful not to damage the wall. ###

Step 3: Remove the Bathtub

Now it's time to remove the bathtub itself. To do this: *

Disconnect the plumbing:

Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply lines and the drainpipe from the bathtub. *

Support the bathtub:

Place a few pieces of wood or cinder blocks under the bathtub to support it while you are removing it. *

Lift the bathtub out:

Carefully lift the bathtub out of the bathroom. Be sure to have a helper to assist you with this step. ###

Step 4: Clean Up

Once the bathtub has been removed, you will need to clean up the area. This includes: *

Removing the old caulk:

Use a utility knife to scrape off the old caulk from the wall and floor. *

Patching the holes:

If there are any holes in the wall or floor, patch them with drywall or a similar material. *

Cleaning the area:

Sweep and mop the area to remove any debris. ###

Step 5: Dispose of the Bathtub

Now that the bathtub has been removed, you will need to dispose of it properly. This can be done by: *

Taking it to a landfill:

You can take the bathtub to a local landfill for disposal. Be sure to call ahead to find out if there are any fees associated with disposal. *

Recycling it:

Some bathtubs can be recycled. Check with your local recycling center to see if they accept bathtubs. *

Donating it:

If the bathtub is still in good condition, you can donate it to a charity or Habitat for Humanity. Removing a bathtub can be a challenging task, but it is certainly doable with the right tools and knowledge. By following the steps in this guide, you can safely and easily remove a bathtub from your bathroom.