Bathroom remodels are increasingly popular among homeowners. A recent survey showed the various reasons that people have for having a bathroom remodeling project. Bathroom remodeling projects entail a lot of processes.
A common task done during most bathroom remodeling projects is changing the bathtub. A bathtub change is an inevitable maintenance procedure that every homeowner will get at some point.
Though they might seem easy, bathtub replacements are not DIY projects to take up yourself. Tub replacements require experience and skill to be done properly, without accidents or faulty installments and fittings. You should get it from a reputed bathroom supplier only. For a perfect experience when changing your bathtub, there are some things that you should know beforehand.
- Bathtub Replacement Signs
Before going for a bathtub change, you should know whether your bathtub is due for replacement. The age of a tub only is not sufficient to warrant a replacement.
Leakage is the most crucial sign that a tub should be changed. It can be confusing to know whether your bathtub is leaking or it is water droplets spilling. To know whether your bathtub is leaking, fill it with water and block the drain. Check the bathtub hourly to note whether the water level is decreasing and whether there is a pool of accumulated water at the tub’s base.
Another sign of a bathtub that is due for replacement is cracking. A cracking tub eventually ends up causing leakage. Bathtub cracks can also pose accident hazards if the cracks lead to the chipping of the bathtub. Bathtub chipping can lead to cuts and bruises when the chipped areas come into contact with skin.
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to wait for your bathtub to have structural problems replaced. If your bathtub does not suit your needs properly, you are justified to get another. If you have a standard built-in tub that gives you back pains when using, you can switch it out for a vintage clawfoot tub or modern clawfoot tub that offers better lumbar support.
- Take Accurate Measurements
Inaccurate measurements can wreak havoc on your predetermined budget for the bathtub change. Before buying a replacement bathtub, you should have accurate measurements of the available space in your bathroom.
The bathtub you choose to install is dependent on the available space in your bathroom, and your budget. Compile a list of the bathtubs you want, and do some research to find out the space they take up.
Once you have the space requirements for the bathtubs you want to install, measure the available space in your bathroom. Drop-in bathtubs are the best for narrow bathrooms with limited space. For large bathrooms, corner tubs, and clawfoot tubs are the best options. These tubs act as the centerpiece for the bathrooms, creating an elegant look and feel in the room.
When taking measurements, it is advisable to work with a construction professional. This will ensure that all the dimensions required, i.e., width and length, are taken accurately. The construction professional will also advise on the practicality of the bathtub, especially when considering the drainage and water intake areas for the bathtub.
- Get a Good Contractor
As seen above, a contractor is vital when changing your bathtub. There are articles that state that a bathtub replacement can be a DIY project. In some situations, this can apply, especially when you are not changing the bathtub design that was there before, and you do not encounter complications.
However, having a good contractor is necessary to ensure that the installation runs perfectly and that you do not encounter issues with the bathtub down the line.
A good contractor will also advise on any additional work needed for installing the bathtub you have chosen. Some bathtubs, such as the corner bathtub, need to be fitted with the existing bathroom walls. Such tubs will therefore require some additional construction work to ensure that the structural integrity of the bathtub remains intact.
A good contractor comes in handy when installing a premium bathtub such as the jetted bathtub. High-end bathtubs have numerous features that require additional pieces, such as a pump for creating the whirlpool jets. The contractor will ensure that these pieces are installed correctly and offer maintenance tips. This applies to jet bathtubs that come with pumps. Jetted bathtubs require regular cleaning as part of their maintenance.
When looking for a contractor to work with for your project, use the internet and look for accredited and highly recommended installers.
- Bathtub Materials
There is a wide variety of bathtubs that you can choose from for your bathtub replacement. The bathtubs often have varying designs and materials. Most people consider the bathtub design and often disregard the bathtub’s material.
The material used to make your bathtub is an important consideration that you have to make when changing your bathtub. There are 6 common materials used to make bathtubs. The materials are:
- Cast iron
- Marble
- Enameled steel
- Acrylic
- Fiberglass
- Ceramic
Each of the above-listed materials has its advantages and disadvantages. You must understand all the materials to make an informed decision about which bathtub to buy.
Cast iron bathtubs are the most long-lasting tubs. However, their weight can cause issues, therefore, your contractor should inform you whether your floor can support its weight. Marble bathtubs are the most expensive. They are perceived as luxury bathtubs.
Enameled steel tubs are not recommendable because they lose heat faster and are susceptible to rust if the enamel layer chips or cracks. Acrylic tubs are durable and offer a cheaper option than fiberglass. Bathtubs made using acrylic are light.
Fiberglass tubs are the most common due to their inexpensive nature and lightness. Their downside is that they can scratch and chip easily. Lastly, ceramic bathtubs offer a vast design variety to choose from. The downside is that their textured nature makes cleaning them difficult.
Conclusion
Before embarking on your bathtub changing project, you must have a structured budget to work with. Having a budget will help avoid overspending and running short of cash mid-project.
It is also important to keep in mind that any pending faults in your bathroom will affect the changing process. You must undertake any existing bathroom repairs when commencing the bathtub replacement project.
Finally, you must have a substitute bathroom to use when the bathtub replacement process is underway. Having a substitute bathroom will ensure your regular life is not affected as you await the completion of the project.
