How difficult is it to remove + install new tub and surround? What's a good tub

Hi.

Old pink "handicap-type" tub in pink. It's slightly narrow and not a "soaker". Wall is that really crappy cheap fake tile stuff in ugly old tan color mostly. This thing makes me rather sick and I wanna get it out of there. Should I post some pics? lol.

Anyways. Do you think it would be reasonable to do all this myself? My brother works for a bath/kitchen supply company and can get tubs and things for very cheap.

What's a "good" tub to go with? I want something deep, but of course not too deep. I want a white tub also, not pink LOL!

Should I buy a "system" that all kind of fits together?

Also, once I do manage to get the tub out, what do I have to do with the current drywall around the tub? I heard somewhere that when you install a surround the surround is "direct to studs" or something. Wouldn't that leave me with pretty thin walls if that's the case? Maybe I heard this wrong or something.

Any info helpful.

 

Pictures??? You think we need to see pictures???? What on earth made you think that?

Your brother would be in a better position to recommend the type tub/shower for your particular application since he can see the set up. We can't.

 

Much of what you are asking depends on you. For me a DIY job is knocking a wall out and adding another two bays to my garage. For others replacing a light fixture is the limit of their desire and ability.

Yes, replacing a tub and it's surround can be a DIY job. How big a job depends heavily on the specifics. It can be a relatively easy drop in replacement but if the plumbing is in slightly the wrong spot or the walls are a bit too far or close than it can quickly become more involved. Once the job is started you are committed so you really need to look closely at the details before beginning and be realistic with your skills or desire to learn and get dirty.

 

My job was easy. Newer house, all I had to do was do some new plumbing, and the 3-piece enclave framing which did require some thinking since this was a reno job.

But I do have a creaking that has really disappointed me.
http://www.doityourself.com/forum/to...ml#post2601813

I found it really hard to determine where to place the level to be sure I had true readings so I spent a fair bit of time with that. Plum/level/square 3 times, measure 2 times, cut 1 time, right?

You won't really know until you have removed the old one.

 

Ok guys. I've also decided that I think I want to go with large tiles instead of the surround.

What are the steps? Do I take the old cheesy cheap fake tile board off and then start with bare drywall? Do you have to put some type of vapor/water barrier beneath the tile?

I've never tiled before, you can probably see.

Do you think a surround would just be better? This is not really a big fancy house, but really a cheap little old 1970 starter ranch I'd say. It's home for now though!

 

From what we can see in the pictures..............oh, you haven't posted any yet........it would be best to gut the walls, remove the offending tub/shower and start from scratch, whether you plan on a surround or tiling. Starting from bare studs allows you to modify the plumbing if needed, check on leaks and insulate walls if needed. We'll wait on the pictures.

 

Thanks Ill get some pics up tomorrow.

 

Here's the pics: WARNING Gross and 1970's el cheapo!

 

To install new, real tile you will be best taking the walls down to bare studs. Install an appropriate backer material like Hardie Backer or cement board. Then set your tile and grout.

 

Are you open to the idea of installing one of those 3-piece tub shower units? Might save you a bunch of time. Frame up the alcove, get your plumbing in order, then slide it in, screw it down, and finish the plumbing and cosmetics.

I did my own, and minus one issue, it was not that big of a deal.

 

Yeah maybe, but I want to put in a deeper tub for soaking.

 

Most surrounds don't care about the height of the tub since they just sit on top so you can still have the choice of a pre-fabricated surround or doing tile. The pre-fabricated surrounds can be a bit more critical of the walls, requiring that they be plumb while a tiles can be made to work no matter how crooked the walls are. If you do consider a surround I would stay away from the less expensive models as they crack and break easily. Get up at least into the mid price zone where the quality tends to be much better.

 

We went through a recent remodel & we took out tubs & 4" square ceramic tile & went back with a new cast iron tub & three piece surround. We are very pleased with it. My wife's brother is a plumber & he did a great job on this. Personally, I wouldnt do it any other way... well unless I were to win the lottery & had a couple million to spend on a log home... oh wait got carried away in the dream here..

Anyway, personally, I would not take on this job but doesn't mean you shouldn't if you have knowledge of this type work. Its just not something I'd be confident enough to do as DYI project, & know its going to get done right without embarrassing, noticeable & costly mistakes.

Good luck....

 

Mine is pretty deep I must say. Have a look, you might fine something you like. But don't cheap out; on any project for that matter.

 

The one thing to consider when using a deeper (taller) tub is the shower spout location. It is normally just above the shower frame in the wall, but may have to be drilled through the enclosure itself to keep it at a reasonable height. Minor infraction - 5 yards.