Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - shower/tub removal and installation

We are going to replace the tub and shower this weekend. The shower is tiled above the tub. We will be replacing it with a multi-piece unit because the single shower/tub units don't fit through the doors. So here are my 3 questions:

1) Do you have any recommendations/instructions about tearing out the tile and tub?

2) Doy you have any recommendations about what to buy for the replacement? (my wife wants to have something that is easy to clean)

3) Do you have any tips about installing the new tub/shower unit?

If you are replacing both the tub and the shower, you can get a 4 piece unit that will slip right into the standard 60" tub alcove, Generally these are fiberglass, the shower walls bolt to the tub, CAN'T LEAK and are easy to keep clean. Just make sure you have the floor space to put in the back bolts before you slide the unit into place. If you are keeping your existing tub and just replacing the walls above it, your options are pretty much endless.

If you buy one piece unit, please measure it and make sure you can get it in the bathroom. Had a friend once buy a one piece unit, got it all the way home and then couldn't get it thru the door. Had to remove part of the wall to get it in.

Good input on bolting the pieces together before sliding it in.

The guy at Lowe's also suggested that since the remodelling units are made of fiberglass I should put sand under the tub to make it more secure/stable.

I bought a tourch, some pipe, and fittings and started practicing how to solder.


Let me know if you have any other suggestions. We will be picking up the unit tonight.