How do I remove a bath tub?
Question:
Answers:
If cast iron, it can be broken up with a heavy hammer. If steel a sawzall would probably work best.
We took our fiberglass one out after taking a circular saw to it. Wear lots of protective gear and a mask because fiberglass gets into everything. Then take a cold shower - yes cold - to rinse the rest of the fiberglass off of you.
EDIT - We had to cut it up to fit it through the too small doorway, so yes, it is necessary in some cases to destroy the old tub!
Need a little more info.
If the tub is to be replaced, will it fit thru the entry for the new tub? (Usually the case. Usually need to open a hole in the wall to accommodate installation of the new tub or shower.)
If it's not to be replaced, or won't fit thru the entry for the new unit then cut it up. Use a saws-all for fiberglass and a cutting torch, or sledgehammer for cast iron.
I am guessing the tub is steel or acrylic. First thing you have to do with both is to remove the tub surround and cut the caulking around the tub and floor. Disconnect all the plumbing fixtures and remove, taps, drain, shower etc. The tub should either lift up or slide out. I wouldn't recommend sliding as you may mar your flooring. If the tub won't budge then find out whats stopping it. It could be mortered to the floor, scewed or nailed somewhere. It's easier to remove the tub than install a new one. If the tub is acrylic do as above but you can cut in pieces to remove. If the bathroom is small or the doorway to narrow place the tub on it's side end or end and take out.
All of the above answers are sound. I want to emphasize that if the intent is to replace the tub with a new one, take careful measurements to be sure that you can get it into the bathroom, and be able to twist it into place once you do.
I can't believe how many are telling you to cut it up, that is totally unnecessary. Remove the plumbing fixtures and drywall around the tub and will come right out. No need to smash it or cut it. A hammer on a cast iron tub will just make a horrible mess and not help in removal at all.
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