Tammy Quinn McKillip is a writer living in New York City. Since graduating from Columbia University in 1999, she has written extensively about pets, parenting, theatre, design, health and environmentalism. She is the publisher and editor of Macaroni Kid--an events newsletter and website for parents on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
SUPPLIES
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Large Adjustable Pliers
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
Overview
Removing an old bathtub looks like an easy enough job, but the real challenge is in making sure you don't remove plumbing or parts of your house at the same time. Be sure to consult an architect if you are at all uncertain about the structural integrity of your walls, plumbing or floors before you begin this renovation. And have another pair of strong hands around when it's time to do the actual lifting; even modern tubs can be extremely heavy and difficult to maneuver. Best not to take chances with your back or your home.
Step 1
Expose your plumbing by removing walls, tiles or the panel that conceals it.
Step 2
Turn off the water source and drain your pipes.
Step 3
Use large adjustable pliers to unscrew the tub pipe connection, then loosen the nuts that connect the bathtub pipe to the water overflow pipe.
Step 4
Loosen the nuts that attach the drain pipings and the strainer screws. Remove these fixtures, as well as any wall coverings that are in contact with the tub.
Step 5
Undo any support clips and raise the ledger strip supporting the tub, if you have one.
Step 6
Hammer a chisel against any remaining wall coverings to remove them.
Step 7
Check to make sure the tub is completely severed from any plumbing or pieces of the wall, then have a strong partner help you lift it up and out of place.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Be sure to keep tiny screws, nuts and other small hardware items in a container so you can find them when it is time to attach the new tub.
- WARNING : Always wear safety goggles when using a hammer and chisel to remove tile or walls. If the walls around your tub are foundation walls, brace them with supports when removing the tub. If you are uncertain whether or not they are foundation walls, call in an expert before beginning work.
Resources
