Are you planning to install a bathtub? We can help.
See below for how to remove and install a bathtub.
3. Separate and remove the tub from the wall
If you need help with this or any other plumbing job, contact us today.
1. Prepare to remove the tub
Before you install a bathtub, the old one has to go. Also, before you begin with a bathtub removal, turn off the water supply to the tub.
If the specific bathroom doesn't have a separate shutoff valve, go ahead and turn off the water to the entire house.
You can test to see that the water is off by turning the bathtub faucet on.
Then, open a valve at a lower level in your home to relieve any remaining pressure in the lines.
2. Disconnect the tub
There are a couple of different areas to disconnect here.
Drain Flange and Overflow Cover
The drain flange is the round, metal part that sits around the edge of the drain like a basketball rim. To remove this, you need to use a tub drain wrench.
Once the drain flange is removed, use a screwdriver to disconnect and remove the tub's waste and overflow valve cover.
Finally, remove the tub spout. Some spouts have a set screw that holds them in place.
If you don't find one, your spout should just twist off by turning it counterclockwise.
Drain Assembly
This gives you the option to seal your drain to hold water by simply pushing on it to close and open it.
To disconnect the drain, you need to get under the tub. There might be an access panel behind the wall. If there isn’t one, you can cut away the drywall and patch it in later.
Use a pair of channel lock pliers to disconnect the drain pipe below the tee where the drain and overflow valve meet.
Once you've loosened the nut connecting the drainpipe, completely unscrew it by hand and lift out the entire drain assembly.
You’re now almost ready to install a bathtub.
Here’s a video that specifically outlines this part of the job.
3. Separate and remove the tub from the wall
A typical tub is attached directly to the studs through a flange that tucks under the wall surrounding it. This flange will usually be drywall, tile, a tub surround or something similar.
Remove approximately 6 inches of that flange material all the way back to the studs.
Make sure to wear proper PPE such as safety glasses and gloves for this part.
If removing tile, cut along a grout line using a grout remover tool and pry away the tiles using a stiff putty knife.
Next, cut the drywall using a drywall saw - NOT a power saw - and remove the section between the line and the tub all the way down to the studs.
Clear everything away so you have access to the screws or nails attaching the tub flange to the studs.
Remove the screws or nails all the way around the front, top and sides of the tub with a pry bar.
Cut away any caulk between the tub and the floor with a utility knife.
Get someone to help you carry the tub out and to install a new bathtub.
4. Set the new tub in place
Keep your new unit safely packaged until you're ready to install a bathtub.
Additionally, cut out a section of the cardboard to place inside the tub to help protect the surface while you work. Use another piece of cardboard to protect the exposed porcelain side as well.
Make sure the subfloor is level and that the tub will fit securely on it. If necessary, use a floor leveller to even out the surface.
Once it's in position, check to see if the tub is level. If necessary, use shims to even it out.
Take a pencil and mark a reference line on the studs all the way around on all three sides. After doing this, take out the tub and set it aside, because there’s more to do.
A new bathtub can really freshen your space.
5. Reconnect the bathtub
To install the drain, turn the tub on its side and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, take a bit of plumber’s putty, roll it in your hands and place it on the underside of the drain flange.
Position the drain on the underside of the tub and screw the drain flange into the threads. Tighten it completely with the drain wrench tool and remove any excess putty.
Carefully move the tub back into place. Make sure the drain and overflow plumbing coming out of your tub are aligned with the rough-in drain outlet in your bathroom.
Connect the pipes and tighten them down snugly, but don't over-tighten.
Finally, secure the flange on all three walls, as well as the sides of the tub. Do not drill the flange. Instead, use the head of the fastener to hold the flange down. Roofing nails are a good option because they do not rust.
You can also use galvanized screws equipped with galvanized washers.
With the tub in place, finish off the wall with drywall, tile or tub surround. Reinstall the baseboard and finish moulding around and in front of the tub. Reattach the spout.
Don't forget to turn the water back on but be sure to wait 24 hours before using the tub to allow the caulking to dry.
Here’s a video that shows how to install a bathtub:
Install a Bathtub With WaterSmart!
If this job seems too advanced for you to complete on your own, do not worry!
No matter what your plumbing needs, the experts at WaterSmart can help. There is no job too big or too small for WaterSmart.
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Phone: 519-886-7331
Fax: 519.886.8021
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