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Should I replace 40s cast iron tub?

9 years ago

I recently bought a house with a 1940s built in cast iron tub. It looks to be in generally good condition, but it has some small black spots that look like they might be pitting. Does this mean the iron under the enamel has been exposed? If so, what happens if we keep using the tub in this condition?

I'd rather not replace both because I like cool old house fixtures and because it would be a huge pain to remove. I'm also not keen on refinishing it, since it sounds like that is only a temporary fix.

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Comments (6)

Babka NorCal 9b
9 years ago
Can you post a photo? Are you concerned about safety or just looks?

-Babka
noreastern
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks for your response. I've posted a picture of the drain and the area around it. You can see the pitting I am talking about to the left of the drain.

Additionally, looking at it more closely I am wondering what is around the drain. At first I had thought it was just caulk, but now I am wondering if it is some sort of epoxy sealant. When we tried to clean it, the top layer just came off (lower right corner).

I am particularly concerned about the black spot above the drain. I had thought that was mold, but I can't get it off, and now I think it may be very thin enamel revealing the iron beneath.

Any thoughts are appreciated!
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noreastern
Original Author
9 years ago
I just realized I didn't answer your question. I am not that concerned with looks, the pitting doesn't bother me. I am primarily concerned with the longevity of the tub. If we are going to have to replace it eventually, we may as well just do it now while we are doing other bathroom updates. But if it is going to remain structurally sound and not deteriorate, we might be ok keeping it.
enduring
9 years ago
I would replace the tub, if that is what the drain looks like. The white caulking, or what ever that is, is covering up something that isn't pretty. You can get cast iron tubs from Kohler and Toto that are very nice.
Babka NorCal 9b
9 years ago
The drain looks like it rusted out and to keep it from leaking more they filled it with something then put the white coating on after that. It will probably just get worse. I agree with Enduring...replace the tub.

-Babka
oldfixer
9 years ago
I was going to vote for refinishing, but the pix says no. Get out the sledgehammer and remove it while you're in the fix up mode. Sorry about an addition to the budget.

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