Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Fiberglass tub/shower removal
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LWeyl
07-28-02, 08:44 PM
I want to remove the old existing tub/shower enclosure because of its un-cleanability and age. As I have no idea if it is glued or screwed into place I have no idea how to attempt its removal. There are no seams so I assume it is all in one piece. Also, what tools could be required. I will be replacing the old unit with a new unit. Thanks, Leslie
Doug Aleshire
07-28-02, 09:13 PM
Leslie,
It sounds as though the existing is a one pc. that was intalled when the home was built. Normally a 1 pc. could not be installed after because it would not fit through a traditional size bathroom door.
Most acrylic type units have a nailing flange and depending on your wall coverings, you have drywall. This was probably butted right up to the finished raised exposed surface of your unit.
Removal can be messy and time consuming but will require the minimum of the following tools;
Crowbar
Sawzall (reciprocating saw)
Hammer
Utility Knife
Pipe Wrench or adjustable wrench for pipe fittings
Electric Drill and drill bits
Hole Saw (for redrilling the holes for your faucet assembly)
Take a look at this site for some additional ideas as to what you are getting into. I realize we are not gutting out the bathroom but you'll see the areas of interest to you;
http://www.hometime.com/Howto/projects/bathroom/bath_2.htm#walls
If you cut the drywall about 6 inches above the and around the tub/wall unit and remove the drywall, the nailing flange will be visible. At this point removing either nails or screws can be done. "Don't forget to shut water off to your supply lines and remove faucet cover, handles. The drain assembly will also have to be disconnected"
Use the sawzall to cut the tub in sections - BE CAREFULL NOT TO CUT INTO ANY ELECTRICAL WIRES OR WATER LINES - USE A SHORT BLADE.
I would recommend aq minimum 2 pc replacement if not 3 when reinstalling a new unit. You have to be able to get it into the bathroom. Following the directions per the manufacture for installation. Finishing the project is another story . When you need more help...let us know!
Good Luck!
It sounds as though the existing is a one pc. that was intalled when the home was built. Normally a 1 pc. could not be installed after because it would not fit through a traditional size bathroom door.
Most acrylic type units have a nailing flange and depending on your wall coverings, you have drywall. This was probably butted right up to the finished raised exposed surface of your unit.
Removal can be messy and time consuming but will require the minimum of the following tools;
Crowbar
Sawzall (reciprocating saw)
Hammer
Utility Knife
Pipe Wrench or adjustable wrench for pipe fittings
Electric Drill and drill bits
Hole Saw (for redrilling the holes for your faucet assembly)
Take a look at this site for some additional ideas as to what you are getting into. I realize we are not gutting out the bathroom but you'll see the areas of interest to you;
http://www.hometime.com/Howto/projects/bathroom/bath_2.htm#walls
If you cut the drywall about 6 inches above the and around the tub/wall unit and remove the drywall, the nailing flange will be visible. At this point removing either nails or screws can be done. "Don't forget to shut water off to your supply lines and remove faucet cover, handles. The drain assembly will also have to be disconnected"
Use the sawzall to cut the tub in sections - BE CAREFULL NOT TO CUT INTO ANY ELECTRICAL WIRES OR WATER LINES - USE A SHORT BLADE.
I would recommend aq minimum 2 pc replacement if not 3 when reinstalling a new unit. You have to be able to get it into the bathroom. Following the directions per the manufacture for installation. Finishing the project is another story . When you need more help...let us know!
Good Luck!