Removing the tub isn’t as straightforward as it may seem however. So, how do you get rid of the tub that was previously in use without doing any damage to your tiles? Beware of using heavy equipment or applying additional force to the tub, to begin with. Cover the tiles as well to avoid gauging and scratching. If you are able to get the tub out via the bathroom door and not break it, that’s great too.
Step 1: Measure
Start by measuring the length, width as well as the length and the height of the tub that you have previously purchased. You should ensure that you have the widest areas to avoid any problems. Measure the doorframe from the top to the bottom, too. It is essential that the measurements are accurate to make it easy to remove.
The goal here is to find out whether the tub could be taken away without having break it. The need to break the tub that was previously used can be a hassle. First, it’s a huge cleaning effort. Additionally, the pieces may harm the tiles on the bathroom flooring. Make sure you know if you’re able to take your old tub out immediately before undertaking any other work.
Step 2: Removing the Door
If your measurements do not work taking the door off could be your only alternative. Unscrew the door from its hinges with a screwdriver in case the tub isn’t big enough to fit. Make sure you place the door away from the way so it won’t fall in the process of moving.
Make sure to shut the hinges of the doorframe prior to moving. Also, ensure that there aren’t any screws visible as they can cause injury quite a bit if they are caught by them. Now, the door will be set to be used for the tub.
Step 3: Clear Obstacles
If there is any obstructions, they’ll need to be eliminated. In bathrooms with smaller spaces, this might mean taking out the toilet to create more space for the removal of the tub. The need to move around in the bathtub be challenging and risky making it easy on your own.
Step 4: Cover the Tiles
Spread a layer of cardboard on your tile in the bathroom. After the cardboard has been laid down in a uniform manner, cover it with a sheet of plastic sheeting. Cover all corners and edges to ensure that it won’t move or lift up in the process of removing the tub.
Covers do not overlap with the caulk that is at the base on the tub. You’ll need to get rid of the caulk, and the cover could block the tub or shift during the move.
Step 5: Shut Off the Water
With the protective layer put in place, it’s now time to plan moving the bathtub. Begin by shutting the water off. When the water is shut off, loosen the knob covers that cover both hot and cold water knobs. Be careful not to do this in order to prevent damage or breaking them.
After removing the knobs then insert a screwdriver into the hole of the downspout and turn the downspout in the process. Continue turning until the downspout comes off completely. Place this tool in a bag if intend to sell the tub. Otherwise, dispose of it in the event of removing the tub.
Step 6: Removing Pipe Components
After the downspout is addressed it’s time to unbolt the overflow parts. Unscrew the pipe that is used for overflow, and the valve’s cover as well as the waste catch. A pipe wrench is perfectly for this job.
Once you’ve removed all these elements, loosen the lock nuts. Be sure to hold the drainpipe securely using an adjustable wrench when you go through this step.
Step 7: Cut Old Pipes
Next step would be cutting through the pipe that was used for overflow on the wall. A handsaw is ideal to do this, however the electric saw or battery is also a good choice. Older pipes are generally constructed of more durable metals, and require a blade that is capable of cutting through them.
When you are working on projects like this you should use a metal-cutting knife for steel or cutting blade made of masonry for cast iron pipes. They will be able to cut through any type of old pipe with ease and with minimal strain and stress in the process.
Step 8: Unscrewing the Water Lines
The water lines must be pulled out of the tap at this moment. Utilize a spanner and gently remove the water lines since we’ll need them in the tub that will be built.
For the pipes that are near the taps, you could make use of circular saws if you cannot remove the pipes using the screwdriver. If you’re able to take the parts off using your hands, use that first because it is more secure and precise.
Step 9: Caulk Remover
The next step is to address the caulk that is between the tub, the wall along with the floors. Apply a thin layer of caulk remover for each layer. Make sure you employ the caulk removal tool to eliminate the caulk on the downspout as well as the faucet.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions as long as waiting time to allow the caulk to become soft. When the appropriate period in time is up, you can use the knife of a utility tool to cut the caulk. It is possible to scrape or peel some of the caulk which has softened away from the wall tub or floor however, make sure it is completely removed.
Step 10: Pry Up the Tub
All the pipes have been removed The older pipes are cut off and the caulk is gone and it’s time to lift the tub off. Remove the tub carefully from the floor and insert pieces of scrap wood under to secure it from the floor.
Then, carefully pull the tub off the wall, and then insert scrap pieces to prevent it from wall. The goal is to squeeze in enough pieces so that the space can be wide enough to allow your hand to fit.
Step 11: Slide the Tub Away
It is in good condition to go. Grab a firm grip on the tub and then move to the side away from your wall. Take extra care to not scratch the plastic or cause it to slide off the wood scraps. You should keep the tub moving away from the wall so that the walls do not cause problems when the time comes to take it off completely.
It’s recommended to place a carpet roller on either end and lock the wheels. This will stop it from rolling , and also give the tub an additional level that will give it stability till the tub has been taken away. Take the tub and lift it to the other end until it is able to rest upon the roller of carpet. Then, you can easily move it over the doorway (if it is able to fit) as well as out of your home.
Step 12: Breaking Apart the Tub
If you’re breaking the tub to remove it There is a secure and secure method to do this. Put a tarp or a blanket on the top of the bathtub. Make sure to use an sledgehammer for breaking the bathtub into pieces.
Be sure to strike the sides so that you don’t hit the bathtub from below. The force could transfer to the flooring, breaking, chipping or otherwise shattering the tiles underneath. You then can remove the bits from the tub and dispose of them quickly.
Related Questions
Does Removing a Bath Devalue Your Home?
In many contemporary homes, homeowners choose standing showers as an alternative to traditional tub. While standup showers can be more convenient to use and also have an elegant look but it’s not advised to take the tub out.
Bathtubs are an essential feature for families, especially parents with small children. The removal of the bathtub from your home could reduce an investment in your house over the long haul. If you are planning to sell the house in the near future, taking the tub out could be detrimental to your objective.
