skip to main content

Need help. Can I replace a tub after installing the tile floor?

14 years ago

In re-doing a bathroom, I'd like to reglaze the existing cast iron tub for now, and put in the floor tile, and possibly the wall tile. I'm concerned that if I decide to replace the tub it will be a nightmare to install a new one later. Is that correct?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

bill_vincent
14 years ago
The only thing that'll make it tough would be the fact that you'll have to take out the bottom row of tile because of the tub flange that goes behind the wallboard, and then replace it.
bill_vincent
14 years ago
Of course, that's assuming the new tub will be exactly the same size as the old one. :-) We all know how that goes.
Related Discussions
Is it necessary to caulk between wall tile & tub and tub & floor?
Q
Comments (16)
The vertical wall seams crack more readily because the house shifts and moves. Ive tried grouting only and going back to caulk with sanded grout caulk or silicon only after a crack develops, hoping in some cases it will not. Sometimes it does not crack. Some contractors caulk all seams as a matter of course, no callbacks, safer. I liked the idea of sanded grout caulk to match your grout color It has not held up for me in wet conditions, such as the top of the bathtub where the wall tile starts, etc. , definitely not along the shower floor where the wall tile starts. It has held up in other areas though, and looks nicer when it all ties in. I agree, mildew on silicon is unsightly. Every bathroom has different conditions, including ventilation, moisture, etc. Some people have to clean out and recaulk the silicon every year or two. Whether its allegedly mildewproof silicon or not.
...See More
Replaced tub how do I replace backerboard and tile?
Q
Comments (2)
You should be okay just to attach cement board to the studs and tile. I see a couple of problems, though, and sooner or later this is all going to have to come apart and be overhauled. The first problem is that there's no way to have a continuous vapor barrier (if there's one at all). Secondly, if the rest of the tub surround is over greenboard, it should be replaced, anyway. It's way outdated.
...See More
Need help installing a bath tub wall grab bar
Q
Comments (9)
To all responders - many thanks for the comments and suggestions. Was able to open access door at plumbing end of tub and was able to see steel mesh and clumps of plaster below tub rim on exterior wall but no sign of studs - so I assume that plaster with mesh support is also behind wall tiles. This would explain erratic readings with stud finder. Exterior wall is brick - not sure if stud finder will give reliable readings through brick but will give it a try. If so will give me some general idea where studs might be.
...See More
Replacing clawfoot tub with regular tub
Q
Comments (3)
Ask your structural engineer about the weight of a porcelain over cast iron tub like those from Kohler. Get a licensed, insured pro to do the installation. Check references and go see their tile work. An acrylic surround and tub is fine unless tile and cast iron tub are more typical for your neighborhood.
...See More
beth
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks, Bill. The tub length will be the same, but your responses have spurred me into thinking about the tub height and floor outline, which may not match the one I have now. It's probably time to fish or cut bait on the new tub.
sandra_zone6
14 years ago
We were not going to replace our cast iron tub in the kids bathroom which doubles as a guest bath when we have company. I have the mentality that if it's not broke, why fix it?

We ripped everything else out and decided to replace the tub as well. Everything else in the bathroom would be new except the tub which was not new and shiny and more importantly, the drain was 25 years old. We decided to pull the tub. I would hate to have an issue in a few years and have to ruin all the new stuff we are putting in. My 12 year old and I had fun breaking up the tub with a sledge hammer until daddy came home and did the final whacks to split it in half.

Once out, we decided to bite the expense of a larger tub. What was there was a 30 inch tub which was only about 9 inches deep to the overflow. The new tub is 32 inches wide, a nice shape lending to more room in it and allows 12 inches of water to the overflow. Those few inches were costly; doubling the expense of the tub, but man what a nice tub it is!
beth
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks, Sandra. Your experience breaking up the tub sounds like fun, and you'll have a nice looking tub for years to come. I think that you and Bill V have convinced me. Our old (1962) cast iron is nice and deep, but our water is so full of minerals that the finish is a wreck and reglazing is not a guarantee.
sandra_zone6
14 years ago
Don't get me wrong, breaking up the tub was a TON of work and much less work than it was to replace it. I love these DIY projects, so my idea of 'fun' is a tad off from normal. My son and I worked hard at it, but we had a good time doing it together. By breaking it up, you split up the weight of the 300+ lb beast making it more manageable.

Related Stories

MOST POPULAR 9 Real Ways You Can Help After a House Fire

By Alison Hodgson

Suggestions from someone who lost her home to fire — and experienced the staggering generosity of community

KITCHEN BACKSPLASHES How to Install a Tile Backsplash

If you've got a steady hand, a few easy-to-find supplies and patience, you can install a tile backsplash in a kitchen or bathroom

BATHROOM DESIGN Should You Install a Urinal at Home?

By MyFixitUpLife show

Wall-mounted pit stops are handy in more than just man caves — and they can look better than you might think

REMODELING GUIDES Contractor Tips: How to Install Tile

By Buckminster Green LLC

Before you pick up a single tile, pull from these tips for expert results

REMODELING GUIDES Ranch House Remodel: Installing the Interior Finishes

By Bud Dietrich, AIA

Renovation Diary, Part 5: Check in on a Florida remodel as the bamboo flooring is laid, the bathroom tiles are set and more

BATHROOM DESIGN How to Match Tile Heights for a Perfect Installation

By By Any Design Ltd.

Irregular tile heights can mar the look of your bathroom. Here's how to counter the differences

REMODELING GUIDES Tile Floors Help a Hot Home Chill Out

By Laura Gaskill

Replace your hot-weather woes with a cool feel for toes when you treat your floors to deliciously refreshing tile

EXTERIORS Help! What Color Should I Paint My House Exterior?

By Jennifer Ott Design

Real homeowners get real help in choosing paint palettes. Bonus: 3 tips for everyone on picking exterior colors

REMODELING GUIDES Finishing Touches: Pro Tricks for Installing Fixtures in Your Tile

By By Any Design Ltd.

Cracked tile, broken drill bits and sloppy-looking fixture installations? Not when you follow these pro tips

LIFE The Polite House: How Can I Tell a Construction Crew to Pipe Down?

If workers around your home are doing things that bother you, there’s a diplomatic way to approach them

Sponsored

Traditional Hardwood Floors LLC

2 Reviews

Your Industry Leading Flooring Refinishers & Installers in Columbus

More Discussions

Minimum space between backlit led mirror and wall

1

Rohl Antique Gold - What is Similar in Other Brands?

0

wall mount faucet ideas

3

Bathroom mat colour suggestions

0

Kohler Levity Plus sliding bath door for Kohler Underscore bath tub?

0