Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - fiberglass tub
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robin25
08-10-05, 08:18 PM
We just purchased a fiberglass tub and separate tub surround. We currently have a ceramic tub in the bathroom. Can the new fiberglass tub be put directly over the ceramic tub or does it have to be removed? The person who helped us at Lowes told us it can be put directly over the tub that is there now.
majakdragon
08-10-05, 08:54 PM
robin25, Welcome to the DIY Forums.
I can't see any way that a new tub can be put "over" an existing tub. I would go back to Lowes and find that guy again and ask him to show me how to do it. Then I would talk to the Manager. You will have to remove the old tub. Were you told that you need a mortar bed under the new tub to support it? If you install the tub without the mortar bed, then the caulk seal for the tub surround will tear loose after a short time. Even with the mortar bed, I would fill the tub with water and then do the seal. This way, the tub will be pre-flexed and the caulking will not tear loose when you step in the tub. Make sure all surfaces are dry when you apply the sealer. Do not drain the tub until the seal is cured. Good luck.
I can't see any way that a new tub can be put "over" an existing tub. I would go back to Lowes and find that guy again and ask him to show me how to do it. Then I would talk to the Manager. You will have to remove the old tub. Were you told that you need a mortar bed under the new tub to support it? If you install the tub without the mortar bed, then the caulk seal for the tub surround will tear loose after a short time. Even with the mortar bed, I would fill the tub with water and then do the seal. This way, the tub will be pre-flexed and the caulking will not tear loose when you step in the tub. Make sure all surfaces are dry when you apply the sealer. Do not drain the tub until the seal is cured. Good luck.