If you’re planning to replace your bathtub, here are some tips: First, locate the drain elbow. It’s the part of the tub that is attached to the main drain. You’ll need a flathead screwdriver to pry out the old gasket. You’ll need to work from under the tub to reach it, so be sure to carefully inspect the plumbing in the drain elbow. Replace the old gasket with a new one.
After you’ve located the drain, unscrew the overflow drain and P-trap. You can also cut the old waste connection with a hacksaw and replace it with a plastic one. Once you’ve taken the old drain out, you can replace the tub’s shower valve.
If you’re working on an alcove, you may have to move the old tub to make room for the new one. You’ll also need to level the floor underneath the alcove so the new bathtub will sit level. This may involve using shims or a floor leveler.
If you’ve never installed a bathtub before, hiring a professional to do it for you may be your best bet. This task can take a weekend and at least twelve hours of labor. Be sure to have the tools and know-how to complete the job correctly. Otherwise, you may end up paying more than you’d spend hiring a professional.
You may also want to consider replacing the spout on your bathtub. This is usually located behind an access panel in the adjacent room. If it’s not working, you can replace it by unscrewing an Allen screw under the spout. Once you’ve done this, you can then buy a suitable replacement.
When it comes to replacing a bathtub, it’s important to be sure you understand the plumbing system and the drain. Most tubs are left or right-plumbed. The front of the tub has a skirt that extends to the floor, and the back rests against the wall. By removing the skirt, you’ll be able to see the pipes underneath it.
If the bathtub has a shower curtain, you will need to remove it before removing the tub. If you don’t want to remove the shower curtain, you can also remove the sliding tub doors. Taking off the doors will require some work on your part, but they’re easy enough for most people to handle.
You’ll also need to make extra space on the wall to fit the new tub. Depending on your skill level, the installation process can take six to nine hours. Moreover, it can take up to a day to re-tile a tub. Make sure to allow for 24 hours for the new tub to dry.
Next, make sure you have a rubber gasket for the drain. If your bathtub has an overflow elbow, place the rubber gasket on the overflow elbow and secure it. Once you have installed the drain, connect the overflow elbow to the pipes.
