I just moved in and the tub is top on my list of things to update. I know that reglazing is the way to go for changing the color and I’ve seen some recommendations in previous posts for that service. I was wondering if there are people out there who do reglazing and could also install a modern-style drain and change the faucets. My ultimate fantasy, since I have a separate stand-up shower, would be to install jets and turn the tub into a hot tub. Does anyone know if that would be possible? Or if my goal is hot tub, would it be easier to just get rid of the whole thing (I’ve heard taking out a tub can be an expensive procedure).

Thanks


Comments

  1. It’s a huge pain in the butt indeed. A contractor in my building went at one apartment’s tub with sledge hammer rather than carry it down 4 flights of stairs. Pretty loud. It is possible to replace the tub without necessarily having you down stairs neighbor’s ceiling ripped open. It kind of depends, though, on what the plumber finds when the tub is removed.

  2. so to replace the tub a plumber doesnt have to cut from underneath? or did i miss read that….im actually in a similar situation and would love to replace my tub but im doubtful that my neighbor below would allow it…. ive also heard removing a cast iron tub is a pain in the ass

  3. If you want to change the drain, a plumber has to get beneath the tub. There’s two options and both are noth cheap if you have it done by a licensed professional. Either you have to have a downstairs neighbor who will allow you to open up their ceiling directly beneath your tub so the drain and pipes can be accessed. But you could be asking for trouble there. Opening the ceiling could reveal other water or structural problems that need to be addressed. Or you can replace the entire tub. As other posters have said, reglazing isn’t going to last forever. Plus, since you want change the fixtures, you most likely will need to get behind the wall, especially if you want a signal knob set-up as opposed to seperate hot and cold regulators. Making the investment now, though, will definitely pay off down the road if you intend to sell the apartment at some point. I’m shopping for an apartment now and it’s a real turn off when I see a great place with a bathroom that needs a lot of work. I’m willing to pay 10-20,000 more if the bathrooms are modernized.

  4. For a wicked, super duper el-cheapo tactic, you can repaint it using that special paint especially for the purpose. It doesn’t last forever, and it takes about five days in toto to cure, but it costs about 20 bucks. I think you can buy the stuff at Home Depot.

  5. It’s not that hideous. Just put some white stripes (parallel to ground) along the side of it as a temporary solution, and clean up the grout in the bathroom.