Replacing a bathtub: is it difficult?

Several reasons may lead you to replace one bathtub with another: replacing an old damaged bathtub, gaining comfort, optimising the space in your bathroom or improving accessibility.

That being said, is replacing a bathtub difficult? Who should you contact to install a new bathtub? And how much does this type of service cost? Discover our guide and advice on the subject!

Why replace a bathtub?

As mentioned, replacing a bathtub can be done for several reasons.

Replacing a damaged bathtub

Is your old bathtub badly damaged? Does it have leaks, scratches, unsightly stains or even water infiltration? Then it is the right time to install a new bathtub. Even though you can find repair kits, replacing your bathtub is a much more durable solution, which will notably help you avoid water damage.

Saving space

Do you want to optimise the space in your bathroom? This is a good enough reason to replace a bathtub. If you have a large bathtub that is not well suited to the size of your room, you could opt for a more compact model, which will give you greater everyday comfort.

Improving your comfort

Would you like a bathroom bathtub that is more comfortable than your current model? With this in mind, you could opt for a more sophisticated bathtub.

Today, you can notably find whirlpool bathtubs, which will allow you to turn every bath into a moment of absolute relaxation.

Improving accessibility

Are you noticing a loss of mobility? Are you finding it increasingly difficult to step over the side panel of your bathtub? In these circumstances, it is legitimate to replace a bathtub with a shower cubicle, a walk-in shower or even a walk-in bathtub.

Even though we do not position ourselves in this segment, we could not ignore this motivation, which many people losing independence share.

Installing a new bathtub: who should you contact?

Unless you are a DIY enthusiast, we recommend contacting a professional to replace a bathtub. For this type of work, you can turn to a plumber specialising in bathroom renovation.

In order to choose a reliable and honest professional, you can search online while paying attention to customer reviews. And of course, before committing, compare several quotes to choose the plumbing company that seems best to you.

Replacing a bathtub: how much does the work cost?

The price of replacement work will vary depending on various parameters. First of all, remember that each professional is free to set their own prices. Then, the cost will depend on the amount of working time required.

It is worth knowing that certain modifications, such as adapting the drainage system, can affect the labour time and the overall cost of the project. When replacing your bathtub, tiling or flooring work may also be necessary.

As each project is unique, the best solution is therefore to request several quotes to get a good idea of the budget to plan for.

Home improvement loan: a solution to finance the replacement of your bathtub

To finance your bathroom renovation project, you may be eligible for a home improvement loan under certain conditions. To find out about financing options, we recommend contacting your bank or a loan broker. Depending on your personal situation, they will be able to provide a simulation and give you the interest rate of your loan, as well as its duration.

The steps for replacing a bathtub

For DIY enthusiasts, replacing a bathtub remains possible provided you have the time needed to devote to this project. If you want to take care of it yourself, you will then go through several steps.

Preparation phase

First of all, a few precautions are necessary when replacing a bathtub. You must effectively start by shutting off the water by closing your main water meter.

Once this is done, take the time to open the faucets to let any water remaining in the pipes drain out. Finally, we recommend protecting your bathroom floor with a mat or cardboard.

Removing the old bathtub

Next, you can remove your old bathtub. If you had a wall-mounted bathtub or a corner bathtub, you need to start by removing the seals with a utility knife.

Then, you can remove or break the side panel of your bathtub depending on its nature, and dismantle the siphon and water inlet hoses. If you had a cast iron or steel bathtub, you must remove the equipotential bonding.

Once all this has been done, do not hesitate to ask another person for help in carrying your old bathtub.

Work required before installing the new bathtub

As mentioned earlier, replacing a bathtub sometimes involves tiling work or work on the floor covering. The most important thing is to make sure that the floor is flat and even before installing your new equipment.

In this context, mark the location of your future bathtub according to its dimensions and shape. Similarly, identify the location of the drainage system. This will notably allow you to see whether any adaptation is necessary.

Installing the bathtub

Finally, you can place your bathtub in the planned location, adjusting the height of the feet if necessary. Then, you can connect your bathtub to the drainage system before installing the faucets.

You can then carry out a test to check that there are no leaks and that the water drains properly. If everything is fine, you can move on to the finishing work by making the seals.

Once your bathtub is installed, we recommend waiting 24 hours before using it.

Bathtub replacement: discover the available Spalina models

Have you not chosen your new bathtub yet? Then discover our catalogue, which features many models: freestanding design bathtubs, relaxing whirlpool bathtubs and back-to-wall semi-freestanding bathtubs.

As you will see, each bathtub displays a magnificent design, allowing you to create a bathroom that meets your expectations.

Why order from Spalina?

By choosing Spalina, you will benefit from excellent value for money. Offering a magnificent finish, our bathtubs are made from quality materials. They will therefore remain in good condition for several years.

On our website, you can place your order easily and securely. No more than 6 days after your payment has been processed, you will receive your order at your doorstep or at the entrance to your building.

And as you can see from customer reviews, Spalina has a positive image. For your bathroom renovation, you can therefore place your trust in us. Discover all our available models!