How to Do Your Own Cast Iron Bathtub Installation

Every once in a while even a cast iron bathtub needs to be replaced. True the tubs can last for decades but every once in a while, especially if you purchased your tub from an antique dealer instead of buying a tub that was made by a contemporary manufacturer (there are some that still make cast iron bathtubs) you run the risk of purchasing the tub at the end of its lifespan. Luckily bathtub replacement is not difficult, especially if you purchase a new cast iron tub to replace your current one. Cast iron bathtub installation is more straightforward than other types of bathtub installation projects.

Before you do anything, make sure that the water in the house is turned off. After turning off the house's water, let the water lines drain completely. This should be your first step in any bathtub replacement project whether it is a cast iron bathtub installation or other type of bathtub installation. Once all of the water lines have drained, disconnect all of the plumbing elements from your bathtub. Unscrew the faucets and handles and take out the drain and any shower apparatuses. The drain is always removed from underneath the tub. You might have to go up through the ceiling of the room below the tub to gain access if the tub is too heavy to tip.

Remove your old cast iron bath. You will need at least three if not four strong people to help you carry the old tub out of the bathroom (and to bring the new tub into the bathroom). The nice thing about this part of the project is that a cast iron bathtub usually sits on a pedestal or feet and is rarely built into the room that surrounds it so removing the tub only involves lifting it and carrying it out. Be careful! Cast iron bathtubs weigh hundreds of pounds. Get friends to help you! You do not want to injure yourself!

Before bringing in the new tub for cast iron bathtub installation, check your plumbing and pipes to make sure that everything is in good shape. Fix any leaks or cracks. Make sure that the floor on which your new cast iron tub will sit is sound and in good shape. Check the subfloor thoroughly or your bathtub replacement project will also become a ceiling/floor replacement project!

Finally, bring in the new tub for its cast iron bathtub installation. Get it as close to its final resting point as you possibly can and then connect the drain. Once the drain is in place, push the tub into the location where it will sit permanently. Attach the plumbing and accessories. Connect the water lines to your plumbing. Your last step is to restore water power to your house and test out the tub to make sure all of the piping and plumbing works.

After the water is turned back on and you've tested the cast iron plumbing be sure to seal anything that looks close to leaking and then decorate your tub however you like! Cast iron bathtub installation and bathtub replacement is pretty straightforward, isn't it?