I am getting ready to retrofit a new fiberglass bathtub and would appreciate any tips to make the installation easier. I want to make sure the new drain lines up with the old pvc pipe. Is it as easy as it looks or will I be wrestling with this for hours?
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hello turf203:
replacing a tub can be a nightmare, I'm not going to lie. However the drain will likely be very close to the existing location. The problems you may run into are as follows: The existing plumbing will not accept the type of new drain and overflow your now installing; solution: adapters, furnco's or replace alot more plumbing until you get to part of the pipes you can adapt to. Other problems: The alcove of old tubs are often 30-32 inches and now a days the tub with the tile flange is 33 1/4 inches, solution: add a drywall build up around the alcove or buy a shallower tub, determining the depth or front to back measurement of the existing tub cannot always be easily determined so if you cannot determine the depth, dont special order a tub or you may not be able to return it. 3rd and most common problem is if your interested in purchasing a shower (enclosure) be damn certain you can gain entry into the bathroom with it. Most situations call for a 2 or 3 piece tub and shower unit. 4 th common problem but not difficult to overcome is the new tub has an unusually deep well and may require a whirlpool drain that can accomodate a higher overflow discharge; solution about $70.00 for the taller type of drain. Let me know how you make out...
Thanks Karl, I am starting the project tomorrow and will let you know how it goes. I am buying a 31.5 inch wide tub with a 3-piece surround from Loew's. turf