Most embarrassing and hideous bathtub in desperate need of repair!

Amy Bayne
by Amy Bayne
Original bathtub from home built in 1954. However, stepfather added side walls them painted entire surface with God knows what!! Have no clue what bathtub is made of (Porcelain maybe?) No experience here in this area so any and ALL suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
That to all👊👊

  6 answers
  • Amy Bayne Amy Bayne on Jul 03, 2018

    This is video to see what I'm working with

  • Oliva Oliva on Jul 03, 2018

    Your video did not post. Tub may be cast iron. Do you want to remove/replace?

  • Mogie Mogie on Jul 03, 2018

    I would start by taking down the side walls to see what shape the tub itself is in. Do you want to refinish the tub or go with a new one? A picture would be helpful.

  • Lisa S. Lisa S. on Jul 03, 2018

    HI, I had original tub from a 1950s house. I had Bath Fitter place a "new tub" over the old one. It turned out great.

  • 17335038 17335038 on Jul 04, 2018

    Are you sure that the walls that were 'added' and what they are finished with are water impermeable? If not, then perhaps it would be best to plan to have the entire lot removed. Do you prefer a bathtub or shower? Old style tubs are slippery, awkward to get in and out of, and hard to clean. The direction bathroom renos are going now is to have them replaced with low entry safer showers.

    • Amy Bayne Amy Bayne on Jul 04, 2018

      I was hoping not to have to put a lot of money into this as I plan to put house on market as soon as possible. Looks like replacing it is probably my best option

  • 17335038 17335038 on Jul 05, 2018

    In my experience with these situations, often a 'simple' replacement amounts to more expense and labour than originally thought. This is usually because it is unknown what the condition of the bath area will be after the demo and removal of the old materials. Often more upgrading and refinishing is needed before the new materials are installed.


    If you are planning to put the home up for sale in the near future, my suggestion is to not do anything to change the bathtub. Recognize that the bathroom needs updating, reduce the price to reflect this, and get the house sold.