How to Remove a Garden Tub and Upgrade Your Bathroom

How to Remove a Garden Tub?

To remove a garden tub, it is recommended to hire a professional.

The process involves disconnecting the piping, removing walls if necessary, and carefully lifting the tub out.

The surrounding walls may need to be opened up, and fixtures like the toilet and sink may need to be removed.

It is important to support the remaining studs in the wall and disconnect the drain and supply pipes.

The new tub can then be installed by aligning it with existing piping and fixtures.

It is recommended to use cement backerboard under tile for moisture resistance and to use escutcheons to cover faucet openings.

Hiring a professional plumber may be necessary for tub connections.

Key Points:

Hiring a professional is recommended to remove a garden tub.
Disconnect piping and remove walls if necessary to remove the tub.
Open up surrounding walls and remove fixtures like toilet and sink if needed.

Support remaining studs in the wall and disconnect drain and supply pipes.
Align new tub with existing piping and fixtures during installation.
Use cement backerboard under tile and escutcheons to cover faucet openings for moisture resistance.

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that garden tubs were originally designed as a luxurious addition to hospitals and resorts in ancient Rome? They were believed to have therapeutic benefits for patients and were often filled with herbal essences and flowers.

2. Before modern plumbing, garden tubs were filled and emptied manually. They had a removable bottom plug or drain that allowed water to be drained directly into the garden, which is how they got their name.

3. In the 18th century, garden tubs were a symbol of social status, and only the wealthiest could afford them. They were often found in the private gardens of aristocrats and were considered a sign of opulence and refinement.

4. The largest garden tub ever recorded was in the Château de Versailles in France, which spanned a staggering 14 feet in length. It was reserved for the exclusive use of King Louis XIV, who indulged in extravagant baths surrounded by lavish decorations.

5. Garden tubs became popular in the United States during the Victorian era. They were often placed in enclosed gardens or conservatories, where people could relax and enjoy the benefits of nature while bathing. These tubs were typically adorned with intricate metalwork and exotic plants, adding to the overall charm and elegance of the space.

Reasons To Remove A Garden Tub

Garden tubs were once considered a luxury item in bathrooms, offering a spacious and relaxing bathing experience. However, as times have changed, so have the preferences of homeowners. There are several reasons why garden tubs are no longer considered desirable.

Firstly, garden tubs consume a significant amount of water. With an average capacity of 100 gallons, filling a garden tub can quickly deplete your hot water supply, which is not only wasteful but also costly. As people become more conscious of their environmental impact and energy consumption, the idea of soaking in a tub that guzzles water becomes less appealing.

Secondly, garden tubs can be difficult to clean. Their large size and intricate shapes make it challenging to reach all areas, resulting in a time-consuming and frustrating process. Furthermore, the lack of functionality in garden tubs contributes to their diminishing appeal. They often lack features such as jets or adjustable controls, making them less versatile and practical compared to other options.

Lastly, garden tubs have fallen out of favor among home buyers. The majority of potential buyers prefer larger walk-in showers or no tub at all, valuing the convenience and space-saving benefits that come with modern shower designs. Therefore, removing a garden tub can add value to your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Alternatives To Garden Tubs

If you decide to remove your garden tub, there are several alternative bathroom design ideas that can help you make the most of the space. One option is to install a larger vanity with double sinks, providing more counter space and convenience for couples getting ready in the morning. Additionally, adding extra storage space, such as built-in shelves or cabinets, can help keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free.

In terms of bathing options, smaller freestanding tubs are growing in popularity. These tubs offer the luxurious experience of soaking in warm water while taking up less space than a traditional garden tub. Another trend gaining traction is “wet room” designs, where the entire bathroom acts as a shower enclosure. This approach eliminates the need for a tub altogether, allowing for a spacious and versatile shower area.

Hiring Professionals For Tub Removal

Removing a garden tub and installing a new one is a complex process that should be handled by a professional. While DIY projects can be tempting, hiring a professional ensures that the job is done safely and efficiently.

A professional will have the necessary expertise and tools to properly disconnect and remove the old tub, as well as make any necessary adjustments to the surrounding area. They will also ensure that the plumbing connections are correctly installed, preventing any leaks or water damage.

Moreover, hiring a professional can save you time and stress. They will take care of all the intricate details, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your home renovation or simply relax knowing that the job is being handled by an expert.

Potential Damage And Precautions In Tub Removal

During the process of removing a garden tub, there is a potential for damage, especially if the surrounding walls need to be opened up. This can result in cracked tiles, damaged drywall, or even structural issues if not handled correctly.

To minimize the risk of damage, precautions should be taken. It is important to evaluate the condition of the existing walls and flooring before starting the removal process. Any necessary repairs or reinforcements should be done beforehand.

When removing the tub, care should be taken to disconnect the piping correctly. This ensures that there are no leaks or complications when installing the new tub. If a wall section needs to be cut to facilitate tub removal, it should be done with precision to minimize the damage and make the repair process easier.

Steps To Remove A Garden Tub

The process of removing a garden tub requires careful following of several steps to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Here are the steps to be taken:

Disconnect the piping: Before removing the tub, it is essential to disconnect all piping connections, including the drain and supply pipes. To do this, you may need to shut off the water supply to the bathroom and use appropriate tools to loosen and remove the connections.

Remove the tub: Depending on the setup, the tub can either be pulled straight out or removed through a wall section. If you are removing it through a wall, it is important to cut and seal the piping to prevent water leakage.
Handle free-standing tubs similarly: If you have a free-standing tub, the process will be similar. However, you may find access panels on the backside of the plumbing wall. If access panels are not present, the wall surface will need to be opened to expose the piping for disconnection.
Remember to shut off the water supply to the bathroom before disconnecting the piping.

Use appropriate tools to carefully loosen and remove the piping connections.
Cutting and sealing the piping is necessary when removing the tub through a wall.
Access panels on the backside of the plumbing wall can make the process easier for free-standing tubs.

If access panels are not present, the wall surface needs to be opened to expose the piping for disconnection.

Following these steps will ensure a successful removal process for a garden tub.

Installation And Finishing Touches For The New Tub

Once the garden tub has been successfully removed, it is time to install the new tub and add the finishing touches to complete the bathroom transformation.

Support remaining studs: Determine the remaining studs in the wall and ensure they are adequately supported to provide a stable structure for the new tub installation.
Connect drain and supply pipes: Place the new tub in the desired location and align it with the existing plumbing connections. Make sure to secure the drain and supply pipes properly to prevent any potential leaks.

Install wall covering: If any wall sections were removed, replace them using appropriate materials such as drywall or cement backerboard for moisture resistance. Ensure that the wall covering is properly sealed and finished.
Apply finishing touches: Install base moulding, floor covering, and underlayment as needed to enhance the overall aesthetics and functionality of the new tub installation. Use escutcheons to cover faucet openings and secure them with set screws for a clean and polished look.

By following these steps and utilizing the expertise of professionals, removing a garden tub and upgrading your bathroom can be a rewarding and valuable investment in your home. The result will be a functional and modern space that suits your preferences and enhances the overall appeal of your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you remove a freestanding tub?

To remove a freestanding tub, you’ll need to follow a series of steps. First, choose the tub you want to install and measure your current bathtub alcove to ensure proper fit. Then, turn off the water supply and disconnect the drain flange and overflow cover. Next, disconnect the drain assembly and separate the tub from the wall. Once the tub is detached, carefully remove it from the area and dispose of it properly. Finally, install the new tub in its place, making sure it is securely set into position.

What can I replace my garden tub with?

One option for replacing a garden tub could be to install a luxurious spa-like soaking tub. This could offer a relaxing and indulgent bathing experience, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate in the comfort of your own home. Additionally, you could consider transforming the space into a stylish and modern wet room, complete with sleek fixtures and a rainfall showerhead. This setup would provide a spacious and open showering area, creating a contemporary and functional bathroom space.

Is removing a bathtub easy?

Removing a bathtub can range from easy to challenging, depending on the accessibility of the old tub and the necessity of opening walls. If the old tub is readily accessible, the process can be relatively straightforward and quick. However, if opening a wall is required, the task becomes more difficult. It is advisable to have a helper to assist with removing the old tub and positioning the new one. Additionally, hiring a professional plumber to make the tub connections might be a good idea to ensure everything is properly installed.

Are freestanding tubs hard to get out of?

Freestanding tubs can present some challenges when it comes to getting in and out, especially for individuals with disabilities. The design of legged tubs may make it harder to maneuver and may require extra assistance. Additionally, integrating a shower into a freestanding tub setup can be more complicated. Another consideration is that water is more likely to splash out from the tub, potentially causing damage to floors and walls due to increased moisture exposure.

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