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What You Need to Know About Installing a New Bathtub

Helpful information for homeowners considering a bathroom remodel.

What You Need to Know About Installing a New BathtubDo you hate your bathtub? Maybe it is an ugly color, maybe the finish is damaged beyond repair, or maybe it is a dated style such as a corner whirlpool tub. You may be dreaming of a luxurious new designer tub, but before you take the plunge and make your purchase, be sure you’re really ready for the remodeling process.

Replacing a Tub is a Big Job

Changing out your bathtub is a serious undertaking requiring a lot of time and expense. Depending on the type of tub you have and how your bathroom is configured, you might have to replace the flooring, tub surround, and even some of the wall before the job is done. You’ll also have to deal with the cost of disposing of the old tub and the risk of damage to your home as the old and new tubs are carried to and from the bathroom. This is exactly why most people try to refinish or restore their old bathtub rather than replacing it.

However, sometimes the only way to get the look you want is to replace the whole tub. In this case, it is typically best to plan your tub replacement to coincide with a larger bathroom remodel. This way, you will be ripping up your floors and walls anyway and you can more easily reconfigure the tub area.

Don’t Forget Plumbing

If you have to re-route any plumbing to accommodate your new tub, this is going to add to the time and expense of your project. So, you may want to think twice before you decide to install a new tub that requires side-mount plumbing when your old tub had end-mount plumbing. This is not to say you can’t change the location of your plumbing, but you will just want to make absolutely sure it is necessary to your new design.

Never Skimp on Quality

While you can easily update your bathroom by changing the paint color or even replacing the vanity, changing out the bathtub is such a big job that you are definitely not going to want to attempt it every few years. This makes it very important to choose a high-quality designer bathtub that is going to stand the test of time, both in terms of its looks and its functionality. At Mission West Kitchen and Bath, we have many excellent bathtubs to choose from, and our staff can educate you on the benefits of different types of tub finishes as well as how to care for them, so that you can be sure you will be happy with your new bathtub for many years to come.