Wondering how to remove an old bathtub? If you bathroom renovation includes a new tub, you can save money by removing the tub yourself. Although not complicated, removing an old bathtub will take a helper and most of a weekend.
How To Remove An Old Bathtub And Stay Sane
#Make room. Before you attempt to remove an old bathtub, take a good look at the bathroom and its fixtures. You may need to remove the toilet and or the vanity before attempting to remove the bathtub. If your bathtub is free standing, you'll have a simpler time, but if your bathtub is installed in an alcove (surrounded by walls on three sides), you'll need at least three feet in front of the tub to slide it out.
#Pipe access. If your home has access panels to bathroom plumbing in the wet wall behind the bathtub, you're in luck. If your home doesn't have access panels, you're in luck-you get to create some! You'll need to get to the plumbing for the old bathtub either through an existing access panel or through a cutout in the drywall.
#Work dry. Before attempting to disconnect your old tub, turn off the water supply. You'll need turn off both the hot and cold water. Next, drain the bathtub pipes by opening a faucet at a lower level then the bathtub-for example, a first floor sink or outdoor faucet.
#Unplug. Disconnect the plumbing from the tub. You'll need to detach the drainpipe and the overflow pipe first. Next, remove the faucet handle(s) and outer hardware. Handles usually are held in place by a screw concealed under a protective cover. Valve covers may require loosening a setscrew with an Allen wrench or small screwdriver. Finally, remove the faucet plumbing back to the water supply lines.
#Clearing a path. For an alcove-installed bathtub, you'll need to remove 4" to 6" of wall covering (tile, drywall, etc.) around the edges of the tub to reach any screws or fasteners that are holding the tub to the wall.
#Move it or lose it. Using a pry bar, slide the tub away from the walls toward the middle of the room. 1" x 4" wooden skids can make this part of the job easier. Protect walls and floors by putting a section of scrap wood between the pry bar and surfaces to be protected. Once the bathtub is free, get a helper to lift and remove the tub. If the tub can't be maneuvered or won't fit out the door, you may have to cut it into sections with a Sawzall or similar heavy-duty tool.
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