Removing bathtub explained in an understandable way! With step by step instructions

Removing a bathtub may seem difficult at first. After all, the tub is permanently installed, the tiles next to it are sensitive and the fittings are also a nuisance. But with good step-by-step instructions, even the inexperienced can do it: The actual removal is actually quite simple. However, a prerequisite for a smooth process is some background knowledge.

Remove bathtub: Do-it-yourself instructions

Before the actual work, it is helpful to realize how such a bathtub is anchored. After all, it depends on what all needs to be detached from each other before the tub can be lifted out. The most important difference: does the bathtub rest in a shell of rigid foam? In most modern tubs this is the case. Only rarely are older models still installed in such a way that the entire substructure must be removed. Then it is often cast-iron models. Another disadvantage of them is their very high weight. If the tub only rests in the hard shell, the substructure can probably be saved. Nevertheless, before dismantling various connections must be disconnected from each other. These include the drain pipe and overflow, but also the expansion joint between the tub and the wall. For accident-free work and to protect the tiles, a number of preparatory works are also necessary. Very important is not to work alone. After all, in the end, the whole tub must be lifted out of the casing. Therefore, the preparation necessarily includes organizing a helper!

Step 1 - Preparations: Turn off the water and dismantle fittings

. First of all, the water should be turned off: To do this, close the main faucet. It is often found in the bathroom in close proximity to the tub. Drain excess water from the tub and faucets. Once this is done, the faucets of the tub should be dismantled. This is not only to protect high-gloss fixtures from scratches: at the latest, when lifting out the tub, they would simply be in the way. Only after that is the actual removal of the tub.

Step 2 (optional): Remove substructure

If the tub rests loosely in a hard shell, this step is not necessary. If, on the other hand, the bathtub is completely walled in, nothing helps: the substructure must be smashed. It consists of tiles, and more rarely of a wooden lining. In the case of tiles, a hammer and chisel will help. If the tub is exposed, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Loosen and pull off expansion joint

. Expansion joint is called the joint along the wall, which runs directly around the bathtub. It is filled with silicone or acrylic. Loosen it can be with a sharp carpet knife (cutter). To do this, it is best to go along the joint lengthwise twice with the cutter: once directly on the side of the tub, the next time carefully directly on the wall. It is important here not to damage sensitive tiles. Once this is done, the silicone residue can be easily removed by hand.

Step 4: Separate the tub from the drain pipe

. Now the tub is still connected to various pipes. Of course, they must be separated from the connecting pipes before removal. In the case of the drain, this works very simply: use the screwdriver to loosen the centrally located screw at the top of the drain. If this has worked, it goes on to step 6!

Step 5 (optional): Cut sheet metal webs on the drain

. Often the screw has seized up, making it impossible to loosen with a screwdriver. If it really does not move at all, it needs a sheet metal cutter. This is because the screw rests in the middle of several small sheet metal webs that connect it to the edge. These webs must now be cut. Unfortunately, after that the tub is unusable. Therefore, if the tub is still to be used, this step must not be done hastily, but can only be the last option!

Step 6: Remove the overflow

. The overflow is also connected to a pipe. Consequently, it still needs to be disconnected from the tub as well. Here's how it works: the overflow has a loose-fitting cover cap. It is simply pulled off. Underneath, however, another fastening is revealed, the so-called rosette with a screw. Once this screw is loosened, the rosette can be removed. Done: In principle, the tub is now ready for removal. Before it can go off, however, something still has to be checked.

Step 7: Get side cutters ready to cap the ground wire

. Many older tubs have a ground wire on the outside. Therefore, it must also be capped before you can lift the tub all the way out. For safety, always assume to remove such a grounding cable and have a pair of side cutters ready. What is the grounding cable: another name for it is potential equalization wire. It was used for safety from electric shock. Since 2002, it is no longer required when installing new tubs.

Step 8 (optional): Disconnect grounding cable, lift tub briefly to do this

. If the ground wire is on the tub, it must first be lifted halfway out by a person. Once the helper reaches the wire, quickly cut it. Then both of them let the tub slide back again briefly.

Step 9: Lift out the tub completely

. This should also be done by two people. Beforehand, briefly check whether the tub is actually already loosened everywhere. To do this, briefly lift the bathtub in several places and wiggle it slightly. If it is really loose all around, it can now be lifted out completely.

What to do if the tub can not be loosened?

In such a case, only the complete destruction helps: then the bathtub must be smashed into several parts. In doing so, work lengthwise with a hammer. First, knock off the edges at the head and foot ends. Then split lengthwise in the middle and take out the individual parts.

Special case cast iron tub

. It, too, must be completely disassembled in many cases, often for weight reasons alone: Such a tub weighs about 150 kilograms. In this case, removal is carried out with a sledgehammer. To protect against flying parts, one or more towels are placed on the surface to be worked on. Occupational safety must also be taken into account: This includes eye and ear protection as well as work shoes with steel caps!

What tools are needed?

  • Hammer
  • Chisel
  • Cutter
  • Sheet metal cutter
  • Pipe wrench
  • Side cutter
  • Screwdriver
Conclusion Removing a bathtub is indeed physically demanding. But the process of each step is easy to master even for non-professionals. The basic requirement is the right tools and good preparation. This also includes organizing a helper, as the tub should only be moved by two people! If you follow the step-by-step instructions, you can hardly go wrong. Photo: spa-ambiente.de