Level the floor to allow proper drainage. Working with a helper, stand the tub upright and slide it out. The cost of a bathtub liner can be comparable to the cost of a new bathtub. The price to install a bathtub liner is $1,600 to $3,200. A tub replacement and tile surround installation takes 3 to 5 days. *Installation costs less if the shower drain doesnt need to be relocated to accommodate the tub. The average cost to tile a tub surround is $12 to $35 per square foot for the materials and installation. If you want to install a new bathtub, the easy route is to call in a plumber to get the job donebut that can be quite pricey. To fill the gap above the tub, cut and install strips of cement backerboard, which is more moisture-resistant than green drywall. Get free custom quotes from qualified pros in your area. The frame must be installed at a level height, so bring a level along for this part of the project. Look for plumbers with experience installing tubs or bathroom contractors. A drop-in bath is designed for an installation strategy that is inherent in the name, and its meant to be dropped in. The framing is not enough to support the weight of a tub when a human body plus water are in it. You can momentarily put the bathtub in place to mark holes for plumbing fixtures, and then remove it to drill holes. One of these can easily weigh 200-400 pounds! I've been choosing baths over showers for decades. Proprietary composite tubs range from $250 to $900. Yes, this can slow down your project by days, but it can also save you a significant headache in the long-run. Cast iron bathtubs cost $400 to $5,000 on average or up to $13,200 if they have whirlpool jets. Depending on the type of plumbing you have, you may be working with plastic, metal or flexible piping. Jetted tub installation costs $1,500 to $6,000 on average for the materials and labor. Soaking tubs cost $600 to $2,000 on average, with prices between $400 to $15,800 depending on the size and style. If you need to purchase any tools you dont have, youll see costs increase quite drastically. Enameled cast-iron tubs range from $375 to $2,200. Any covering material is placed on the deck along with the wall tile, thus covering the framing entirely. Then watch some how-to videos (like the one below) and see if youre still excited. Not only this, the frame will need to be sturdy and able to support most of the weight of the tub. So say a big thank you to it for all the luxurious baths it provided you over the years and then say goodbye. Copper is sensitive to harsh chemicals and abrasive materials and requires special care when cleaning. It will be much harder to install your own bathtub if you dont have a buddy to help with certain parts of the job. Use a flat pry bar or putty knife to pry off tiles. These screws are then buried behind either drywall or cement board, depending on the finish material, which in turn goes on top of the wall all the way down to the top edge of the tub, with just a small joint for caulking and movement. There are two types of tubs: those with three walls surrounding them (alcove installation) and island installations (four walls). Bathtubs with high-end designs, luxury materials, and whirlpool jets cost $1,000 to $5,000 on average. Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for at least five years. Slip the other end into the drain hole. (If there are tub faucet handles, leave them in place if they are at least 8 inches above the tub.) In the end, and considering the existing tub is cast iron, I decided to give it a scrub and live with it rather than forking over the money for a custom bathtub. Another appealing quality of drop-in bathtubs is that they can be easily replaced and thus are great for a homeowner whose mind is always changing! Freestanding tubs cost $600 to $15,700 or $2,500 on average, depending on the style. The cost can vary greatly from one material to the next, but most tubs cost between $300 and $2,000. Attach the tub to the studs according to the manufacturer's directions. First things first, you need to do some research and find out which permits are required for this renovation project. Check the faucets and enjoy a long hot soak once everything is dry and in working order. Some whirlpool tubs also require an electrician to wire the tub's motor into the electrical system. So, how difficult is this installation project? Tub installation costs depend on the tub type, existing tub removal, repairs, surface preparation, platform construction, electrical wiring, and plumbing modifications. Essentially you can refurbish your bathtuband change the color if you wishwith a DIY refinishing kit. One of these can easily weigh 200-400 pounds! And the best time to hunt it down is when your bathtub is out and before you install a new one in its place. How to Take a Himalayan Salt Bath | Ultimate Guide, 9 Best Small Bathtubs (2022) | Freestanding, Drop-in, Alcove. He spent more than 15 years as a third-generation tile and stone contractor before transitioning into freelance writing. Basic acrylic and fiberglass tub surrounds cost $200 to $1,000, while solid surface surrounds cost $600 to $2,000, plus installation. This type of tub is popular for a number of reasons, including their low cost, avariety of shapes, sizes and design flexibility. A clawfoot bathtub is a classically styled freestanding tub that rests on four feet, which may be plain or intricately designed in modern or art deco styles. Rectangular tubs can feature rectangular, hourglass, or oval interiors, so give each bathtub you're considering a test run if possible. Attach the drain of the tub to the drain for the floor and the hot and cold water lines to the tub faucets. If you have intermediate plumbing skills, you can do it but it can still be complex. Apply silicone or tub-and-tile caulk where the tiles meet the tub. Once you know how large of a frame you need, you can start building. Copper bathtubs cost $2,000 to $13,500 and are durable and mold-resistant. Inside the tub, slip the screws into the overflow trim. 20 Healing Bath Recipes to Relax and Recover. Fill out the form so that we can put you in contact with certified contractors from our network. Of course, youll probably need to remove your old bathtub before youre ready to install the new one. Acrylic lacks the high-end appearance of other materials but is resistant to abrasions and easy to clean. Refinishing is an affordable option for tubs with minor chips, scratches, or discoloration. Insert the shoe tube into the opening in the overflow tube. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Use a crowbar to pry the tub an inch or so away from the back wall. An inexpensive replacement tub may be narrower than the old tub. Check the tub for level; an out-of-level tub might not drain completely. Not only do you need a fair amount of plumbing experience to tackle this, but youll also need some good strength to get that old tub out. The average cost to install a bathtub is $2,800, but ranges from $800 to $4,600, depending on the type, material, features, and modifications needed. Alcove tubs are the most common and the cheapest to install. Before placing it down, put a layer of plastic sheeting on top of the subfloor and underneath the tub, as well as directly on top of the mortar. For help with this read Bathroom Mold: A Battle Plan to Destroy It. Once you remove the old unit, its time to install a new luxurious bathtub. Integrated seats, available on some midrange bathtubs, introduce added convenience while tubs with a curved apron wall supply extra bathing space. *Tub replacements may not require new faucets and may preserve existing surround. Get free estimates from bathtub installers near you or view our cost guide below. Installing a bathtub of a different style, size, or in another spot increases installation costs substantially. If youre considering this technique, check out my post on refinishing kits for your tub. Use a strainer wrench to remove the drain flange. Allow this to set for 72 hours before draining the tub. Once youve applied for the correct permits in accordance with your municipality and, if necessary, youve hired a plumber for the job then lets get started! If youre considering this technique, check out my post on, link to 20 Healing Bath Recipes to Relax and Recover. Tub resurfacing lasts for 10 to 15 years and adds a glossy coating that gives a brand new look. It might work best to rest the tub on 2x4s part of the time. After you have plumbed the tub and are waiting for the concrete to harden, you can set wood screws through the flange that runs around the edge of the tub and up the walls. If you are starting the process by removing an old tub, be prepared to spend at least 3-4 hours first achieving this task. Drywall mud or cement mortar can be used. Acrylic bathtubs cost $220 to $1,000 for tubs with no jets and $1,000 to $13,400 with jets. The most common type of bathtub used in homes is the drop-in bathtub. Your postal code helps us refer local contractors. Triangular shape fits into a corner to maximize space in smaller bathrooms. Acrylic bathtubs are also not the only option, of course. The cost to install a tub surround is $600 to $3,500. Expect to spend 6-9 hours installing your new tub. Whether you want to relax, get energized, relieve muscle pain, 9 Best Baking Soda Bath Benefits + Recipes for Relief! If you dont, youll have to break up the floor, which will cause an awful mess. An acrylic tub insert or overlay is fitted over the existing bathtub without demolition or plumbing work, which lowers the installation cost. These are widely available but look for brands that dont make use of toxic chemicals. Cut through drywall with a drywall saw. Still have questions? Converting a shower into a tub improves a homes resale value because most prospective buyers want at least one tub in the house. Freestanding tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes but are wider and deeper than alcove tubs. Materials matter when shopping for a new bathtub. In total, youll need at least 3 days to complete the process, but by day 4, that new tub will be beckoning you to hop on in. Ideally, the finish flooring material should run under the tub. Prices depend on whether it's a tub combo with a built-in shower and surround or a freestanding or jetted tub with custom tiling. Acrylic tubs range from $300 to $2,000. Walk-in tubs cost $2,000 to $12,000 or $5,000 on average, depending on the size, brand, and features such as jets. Get free estimates from tub pros near you. Whirlpool jets propel water vigorously for an intense deep tissue massage to relieve joint and arthritis pain. For this reason, its easier to have a friend who can help you guide the bathtub into your home, down hallways, and into the bathroom without causing any damage to the tub or walls. Unless you have purchased a, Bathtub liners are acrylic or PVC plastic molds, which come in the shape of a bathtub. for assistance. The cost of a bathtub liner can be comparable to the cost of a new bathtub. Where the tub rests on the floor, use a utility knife to cut through the bead of caulk if there is one. Predrill holes in the tub flange and use screws to secure the tub to the studs. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and ShareASale, affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees. Remove the sink or the toilet if they will be in the way. (A drain assembly with a plunger is shown.) It would help if you cut about an inch past the edge of the tub to make it easier to remove the tub. Pretty gosh darn impossible if you dont know what you are doing, but for those who have the experience, its still a tough, but rewarding venture. These are placed over the tub and secured with tape or glue to make the tub look good as new. how to replace tile around a bathtub (12 steps). Bathtub prices range from $200 to $13,500, depending on the material. What permits do I need, and will you obtain them. If your tub will be installed as an island, then the same rules as house framing apply in that vertical studs need to be placed at 16 inches from one another. Protect the tub interior. Some have finishes that are fairly durable, but they can become dull in time. If this is a necessary step for you, then the specifics of it will come down to your current plumbing as well as the layout of your bathroom. Must-Know Tips for Converting a Tub to a Shower, How to Install Plumbing Vent Lines in Your Bathroom, What to Know Before Buying a Bathtub, from Types to Materials, How to Build a Shower Enclosure for Your DIY Bathroom Remodel, How to Tile a Shower or Tub Surround to Spruce Up Your Bathroom, Everything You Need to Know About Bathtub Refinishing for a Good-as-New Look, How to Complete a Window Glass Replacement Efficiently and Safely, How to Replace a Showerhead for a Spa-Worthy Bathroom, Small-Bathroom Shower Ideas That Fit Luxury into a Tight Space. Drop-in, platform, and undermount tubs may need a platform base constructed. Installing a different style, size, or moving the tub costs $1,200 to $3,500 and requires extensive renovations. Thank you for your comment, we will take it into account the next time we update this article, Fill out this form to receive quotes from 3 certified contractors, From now on you can create a project faster directly from your dashboard, We just sent you an email to activate your account and get the benefit of its new features. You also may need a drain, if you intend to replace the one you have. Another option is installing an outdoor jetted hot tub. lowes.com/pl/Bathtubs-Bathtubs-whirlpool-tubs-Bathroom/, homedepot.com/b/Bath-Bathtubs-Tub-Surrounds/, lowes.com/pl/Bathtub-walls-surrounds-Bathtubs-whirlpool-tubs-Bathroom/, signaturehardware.com/bathroom/bathtubs.html, wayfair.com/home-improvement/sb0/bathtubs-c1840897.html, badeloftusa.com/buying-guides/bathtub-costs/, us.kohler.com/us/browse/bathroom-bathing/_/N-255v, americanstandard-us.com/bathroom/bathtubs, https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-remove-and-replace-a-bathtub/, inman.com/2018/07/06/building-a-better-bathtub-the-pros-and-cons-of-9-bathtub-materials/, homewyse.com/services/cost_to_replace_bathtub.html, Wide variety of patterns and colors available, Durable, antibacterial, high heat retention, Requires special care with non-abrasive chemicals. Its often very difficult to remove an old tub in one piece, so sadly, you may need to cut your tub in half to get it out. Combination tubs include air and whirlpool jets that run together or independently. You can use a tub drain remover to more easily remove the drain and a screwdriver to remove the overflow drain cover. By submitting your project to us, well be able to put you in contact with the best companies in our network. Installing a different type or moving the bathtub requires a plumber to relocate the pipes and drains, increasing costs. A new tub costs $400 to $16,800, depending on the bathtub material, type, features, size, and whether it's jetted. You also may need occasional assistance from someone else. Youll need to get a permit from your town or state and then get an inspection when the job is done. Also, make sure your concrete floor is level before placing your bathtub. You will then need to patch the floor again after installing the P-trap and waste line. You will need to know these measurements in order to properly craft or purchase a frame which will securely hold your tub. Remove the stud thats running perpendicular to the edge of the tub thats not a support beam. Do all the plumbing while the tub is filled with water and drying. Usually, no more than four or six shovelfuls are required directly under the tub. Receive quotes from multiple pros that meet your exact needs. Find out much more about bathtub liners and if this could be the solution for you. Unless you have purchased a freestanding tub, youll still need to follow the same directions to secure and support your tub. for a detailed description of exactly how to achieve this. Consult the manufacturer's literature and measure to make sure the drain is in the correct location. Install a temporary piece of wood. You can make use of a crowbar to pry the tub out of its position. For help with this read, Bathroom Mold: A Battle Plan to Destroy It, Before you install a new bathtub, youll also need to check your building codes and. Acrylic bathtubs are also not the only option, of course. However, the price of installing the liner is less than the price of paying a contractor to install a new tub. Working with the tub turned on its side, dry-fit the overflow tube and the shoe. Fiberglass/plastic composite tubs range from $250 to $800. Large-scale renovations almost always require a permit, and if youre planning on moving a wall to fit your bathtub in place, then its likely youll need one. Install tiles to fit, allow the adhesive to set for a day, and apply grout. Her remodeling topics have included choosing the best wooden flooring and tiling to create a cohesive, beautiful space. Removing an old tub and disposing of the debris may be suitable for a DIY project. Cast iron tubs are heavier than acrylic and fiberglass and may require reinforced flooring beneath the tub. Professional plumbers and bathroom remodeling contractors install bathtubs, make plumbing modifications, and install new fixtures. You also may need a drain, if you intend to replace the one you have. If you end up splurging on a cast iron tub, you might need to call out all of your friends for assistance. After that, youll need to wait 24 hours for everything to dry properly. You could also need to lift out a stopper and a rocker assembly. RenoQuotes.comcan help you find a trustworthy contractor for yourbathtub renovation project. These are generally acrylic-based tubs that are set in mortar within a frame that supports the tub and hides the naked underbelly as well as any motors associated with the tub, such as with Jacuzzis. Purchase a waste-and-overflow unit ($35, The Home Depot) and determine how you will connect it to the drain line. The installation of a drop-in bathtub is more than just attaching the plumbing for the tub, since it must be level and secure to support the weight and drain properly. Fill in the form on the homepage (it only takes a few minutes) and you will be contacted by trusted professionals. The luxury of having a bathtub in the home is wonderful: a bath can help you to relieve stress, restore balance and really relax. Wear eye protection and gloves for safety during the bathtub removal and installation. The labor cost to replace a tub surround is $300 to $600. Before you do anything, a good tip is to measure the space available so that the new tub you purchase fits perfectly and you arent left with a chunk out of your bathroom wall to accommodate it. Then cut through the drywall that surrounds your tub. You can use a. r to more easily remove the drain and a screwdriver to remove the overflow drain cover. Remove the tub spout and remove the wall surface all around the tub to a height of about 8 inches. On top of design, Ann has written extensively about remodeling and flooring in the home to ensure all readers choose the best option to fit their lifestyle and preferences. Hold the overflow flange in place and hand-tighten one of the screws. Otherwise, youll land up installing a fountain in your bathroom, not a tub. If youve currently got a left-hand drain, youll have an easier time with the installation if you order a new tub with a left-hand drain as well.