Creative uses can be found for old cast iron bathtubs
Cast iron bathtubs are often built into a bathroom, having been set in place before the walls were studded and finished. This is because a cast iron tub weighs between 300 and 400 pounds, with dimensions greater than the average bathroom door. Finished walls and tile work may actually sit on the edge of the tub. There are two methods to remove a cast iron tub from a bathroom: whole or in pieces.
Instructions
Whole Cast Iron Bathtub Removal
1. Detach the cast iron tub plumbing drain and overflow assembly from underneath the bathtub using a pipe wrench and pliers. Use a hacksaw to cut old fittings that will not move.
2. Remove the three finished walls surrounding the tub. Use a hammer, chisel and saw as necessary. Tile and backer board must be demolished where they connect to the cast iron bathtub. Do not remove the wall studs.
3. Determine if you have enough room to both stand the cast iron bathtub upright and position helpers to maneuver the bathtub out of the bathroom.
4. Wear gloves and move carefully so that none of the workers pinch hands between the walls and the tub. Lift the cast iron bathtub slowly and remove.
Destructive Cast Iron Bathtub Removal
5. Disconnect plumbing fittings, overflow drain and drain using a wrench and pliers. Saw any fittings that cannot be detached.
6. Remove items hanging on adjacent walls. Protect other fixtures and finishes from flying debris with plastic sheeting. Drape a tarp or dropcloth over the bathtub to contain debris and dust.
7. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask. Wear work gloves. A cast iron tub is made of cast iron and glass glaze, so it is brittle and broken pieces are dangerous.
8. Using a 12-pound sledge hammer, hit the cast iron bathtub in the middle of the side. Swing hard. It might take a couple swings to break the tub in half. The cast iron bathtub might break into multiple pieces.
9. Remove the pieces of the bathtub. Use caution and wear gloves: the edges and broken glass glaze will be extremely sharp.
Tags: cast iron, cast iron, cast iron, Bathtub Removal, Cast Iron, cast iron bathtub, cast iron bathtub
