How to Remove an Old Cast Iron Bathtub in 6 Easy Steps

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How to Remove an Old Cast Iron Bathtub

Your old cast iron bathtub is a relic of a bygone era. It’s heavy, it’s bulky, and it’s taking up valuable space in your bathroom. But before you can replace it with a new one, you need to remove the old bathtub.

Removing an old cast iron bathtub is a big job, but it’s not impossible. With the right tools and a little bit of elbow grease, you can do it yourself.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of removing an old cast iron bathtub, step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from disconnecting the plumbing to removing the old tub from the floor.

So if you’re ready to take on this DIY project, read on!

Step Task Instructions
1 Drain the bathtub Turn off the water supply to the bathtub and drain the water.
2 Remove the faucets Remove the faucets by unscrewing them from the bathtub.
3 Cut the pipes Cut the pipes that connect the bathtub to the water supply and drain lines using a hacksaw.
4 Remove the nails Remove the nails that hold the bathtub to the floor using a hammer and pry bar.
5 Lift the bathtub Carefully lift the bathtub out of the bathtub enclosure.
6 Dispose of the bathtub Dispose of the bathtub by taking it to a recycling center or by having it hauled away.

How to Remove an Old Cast Iron Bathtub?

Preparation

Before you can remove an old cast iron bathtub, you need to gather the necessary tools and materials. This will include:

  • A sledgehammer
  • A pry bar
  • A reciprocating saw
  • A hacksaw
  • A drill
  • A chisel
  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves
  • A dust mask
  • A tarp

You will also need to protect yourself and your surroundings. This means wearing safety glasses, work gloves, and a dust mask. You should also spread a tarp down to catch any debris that falls when you are cutting the bathtub.

Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, you can begin the removal process.

Drain the Bathtub

The first step is to drain the bathtub. You can do this by turning off the water supply to the bathtub and then opening the drain. If the drain is clogged, you may need to use a plunger or a drain snake to clear it.

Once the bathtub is drained, you can begin removing the faucets.

Remove the Faucets

To remove the faucets, you will need to first turn off the water supply to the faucets. You can do this by turning the shut-off valves located under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the faucets by unscrewing them from the bathtub.

If the faucets are stuck, you may need to use a wrench to loosen them. Be careful not to damage the pipes when you are removing the faucets.

Cut the Bathtub into Smaller Pieces

Once the faucets are removed, you can begin cutting the bathtub into smaller pieces. You can do this using a sledgehammer, a pry bar, or a reciprocating saw.

If you are using a sledgehammer, you will need to first score the bathtub along the lines where you want to cut it. You can do this using a chisel or a hacksaw. Once the bathtub is scored, you can use the sledgehammer to break it into smaller pieces.

If you are using a pry bar, you will need to first wedge the pry bar between the bathtub and the wall. You can then use the pry bar to pry the bathtub away from the wall. Once the bathtub is loose, you can cut it into smaller pieces using a reciprocating saw.

Remove the Pieces from the Bathroom

Once the bathtub is cut into smaller pieces, you can remove them from the bathroom. You can do this by carrying the pieces out of the bathroom and placing them in a dumpster.

Be careful not to drop the pieces of bathtub, as they can be heavy and can cause injury.

Clean Up the Mess

Once you have removed the bathtub and the pieces of bathtub, you will need to clean up the mess. You can do this by sweeping up the debris and then mopping the floor.

You may also need to patch the holes in the wall where the bathtub was installed. You can do this using a patching compound or a drywall patch.

Once the mess is cleaned up, you can replace the bathtub with a new one.

Removing an old cast iron bathtub can be a difficult and time-consuming task. However, by following these steps, you can safely and successfully remove the bathtub and replace it with a new one.

Here are some additional tips for removing an old cast iron bathtub:

  • If you are not comfortable working with tools, you may want to hire a professional to remove the bathtub for you.
  • Be sure to wear protective gear when you are removing the bathtub, including safety glasses, work gloves, and a dust mask.
  • Take your time when you are removing the bathtub, and be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or pipes.
  • Once you have removed the bathtub, be sure to clean up the mess and patch any holes in the walls.

3. Disposal

Once you have removed the cast iron bathtub from your bathroom, you will need to dispose of it. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on your local regulations.

  • Recycle the cast iron bathtub. If your local recycling center accepts cast iron, you can recycle the bathtub by taking it to the center. Be sure to remove any fixtures or hardware from the bathtub before recycling it.
  • Donate the cast iron bathtub. If your bathtub is in good condition, you may be able to donate it to a local charity or thrift store. This is a great way to give your bathtub a new life and help someone in need.
  • Disposal of the cast iron bathtub pieces

If you are unable to recycle or donate the cast iron bathtub, you will need to dispose of it by taking it to a landfill or junkyard. Be sure to remove any fixtures or hardware from the bathtub before disposing of it.

4. Installation of a new bathtub

Once you have disposed of the old cast iron bathtub, you can begin the process of installing a new bathtub. Here are the steps involved:

  • Choose a new bathtub. There are many different types of bathtubs available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is right for your needs. Consider the size, shape, and features of the bathtub before making a decision.
  • Prepare the bathroom for installation. Before you can install the new bathtub, you will need to prepare the bathroom. This includes removing the old bathtub, repairing any damage to the floor or walls, and installing a new shower pan or liner.
  • Install the new bathtub. Once the bathroom is prepared, you can begin installing the new bathtub. This process typically involves attaching the bathtub to the floor and walls, and connecting the plumbing and fixtures.
  • Connect the plumbing and fixtures. Once the bathtub is installed, you will need to connect the plumbing and fixtures. This includes connecting the water supply lines, the drain line, and the overflow drain.

Replacing an old cast iron bathtub with a new one can be a daunting task, but it is definitely doable. By following these steps, you can remove the old bathtub and install a new one in no time.

How do I remove an old cast iron bathtub?

There are a few different ways to remove an old cast iron bathtub, but the most common method is to use a sawzall or reciprocating saw to cut through the tub, then use a sledgehammer to break it into pieces. You can also try using a heat gun or torch to heat the tub and make it easier to break apart. However, be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or floor.

Once the tub is broken into pieces, you can remove it by lifting it out of the bathroom. If the tub is too heavy to lift, you may need to use a crane or other lifting equipment.

Here are the steps involved in removing an old cast iron bathtub:

1. Prepare the area. Remove all of the fixtures from the bathtub, including the faucet, shower head, and drain. Cover the floor with a tarp to protect it from damage.
2. Cut through the tub. Use a sawzall or reciprocating saw to cut through the tub at the drain and overflow holes. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or floor.
3. Break the tub into pieces. Use a sledgehammer to break the tub into pieces small enough to fit through the bathroom door.
4. Remove the tub. Lift the tub out of the bathroom and dispose of it.

What tools do I need to remove an old cast iron bathtub?

You will need the following tools to remove an old cast iron bathtub:

  • A sawzall or reciprocating saw
  • A sledgehammer
  • A pry bar
  • A crowbar
  • A tarp
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

How long does it take to remove an old cast iron bathtub?

The amount of time it takes to remove an old cast iron bathtub will vary depending on the size and condition of the tub. However, it typically takes between 2 and 4 hours.

Is it difficult to remove an old cast iron bathtub?

Removing an old cast iron bathtub can be a difficult and time-consuming task. However, it is possible to do it yourself if you have the right tools and skills.

What are the risks involved in removing an old cast iron bathtub?

There are a few risks involved in removing an old cast iron bathtub, including:

  • The tub may be heavy and difficult to lift.
  • The tub may be damaged during the removal process.
  • The tub may contain lead paint, which can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested.

It is important to take precautions to minimize the risks involved in removing an old cast iron bathtub.

How can I prevent lead exposure when removing an old cast iron bathtub?

Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems if inhaled or ingested. If you are removing an old cast iron bathtub that may contain lead paint, it is important to take precautions to prevent lead exposure.

Here are some tips for preventing lead exposure when removing an old cast iron bathtub:

  • Wear a respirator to protect your lungs from lead dust.
  • Wear gloves to protect your skin from lead paint.
  • Cover the floor with a tarp to catch any lead dust that falls.
  • Wash your hands and face thoroughly after removing the tub.

Where can I dispose of an old cast iron bathtub?

You can dispose of an old cast iron bathtub at a local landfill or recycling center. Some cities and towns also offer curbside recycling for cast iron bathtubs.

Can I reuse an old cast iron bathtub?

Yes, you can reuse an old cast iron bathtub. However, you will need to clean it thoroughly and make sure that it is in good condition before using it.

Here are some tips for reusing an old cast iron bathtub:

  • Clean the tub with a degreaser and a scrub brush.
  • Remove any rust or stains from the tub.
  • Repair any cracks or chips in the tub.
  • Apply a sealant to the tub to protect it from water damage.

Once you have cleaned and repaired the tub, you can use it as a planter, a bench, or a foot bath.

In this article, we have discussed how to remove an old cast iron bathtub. We have provided a step-by-step guide, as well as tips and tricks to make the process easier. We hope that this information has been helpful, and that you are now able to remove your old cast iron bathtub with ease.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Before you begin, make sure that you have the necessary tools and materials.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from the sharp edges of the bathtub.
  • Remove the faucets and drain before you start.
  • Use a sledgehammer or pry bar to break the seal between the bathtub and the floor.
  • Use a crowbar to pry the bathtub up and out of the way.
  • Clean up the mess and dispose of the bathtub properly.

We hope that this article has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.