If you own a manufactured home, knowing how to replace your bathtub can be an important skill you need. Some telltale signs that your bathtub needs to be replaced are leaks, visible cracks or stains. Such signs invite germs and bacteria and eventually become a breeding ground for them. Replacing an old bathtub is a much easier project than changing the size or type of tub, which requires you to reroute and reconfigure your home’s drains and plumbing. Here are some tips on how to replace your bathtub in a manufactured home.
Removing Your Old Bathtub
The first thing you need to do is make sure that the water supply to your bathtub is turned off. Next, disassemble the drain pipe so that the tub can be removed. Note that you will need to disconnect the pipe completely from the tub, including the overflow pipe. You will also need to remove all faucets and fixtures in the shower area and unscrew the water lines attached to them. Finally, you should pull out the old tub trim or wall paneling.
Choosing a Replacement Model
If you are happy with your current model, you only need to buy a new one. However, if you want to replace your old bathtub with another, better one, you should base your choice on the current design of your bathroom. Replumbing and reconfiguring your bathroom will not only become a big and stressful project, but it will also break your budget.
There are many bathtubs available, and you should choose the one that suits your needs. Whether you prefer a corner bathtub or a standard one, it is always important to weigh what will work best for you and your family in the long run. Another important consideration is the material of the tub. Most bathtubs for manufactured homes are made of fiberglass or acrylic. The latter offers more style and requires less maintenance. However, if you are not too picky, both types are widely available and quite inexpensive. There are many other things to consider, such as whether or not you want to install a shower surround, and the location of the drain will depend on your existing plumbing.
Installing Your New Bathtub
If you decide to install a new tub surround, you can either install it with glue or plastic rivets, depending on the instructions. If you are installing new faucets or fixtures, you’ll want to think carefully about where to place them before cutting out the new surround. Included should be a template that will help you align the necessary holes. The rest is quite simple – do it exactly the opposite of the way you removed the tub. Connect the water lines and make sure your drain is connected. Last but not least, caulk the surround and let it dry for a full day.
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