How do I remove my bathtub and install a walk in shower?
I have a worn out bath tub that I would like to replace with a ceramic tile shower and glass doors. My wife is unable to get into the bathtub because of her bad knees and we our elderly, so we would need hand grips and a seat for the shower.
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Here is a tutorial hope it helps Suggested clip · 120 seconds
How to convert a tub/shower to a walk in shower Part 1 - YouTube
I don't think this is something you can do by yourself. I would call Bath Refitters or even a construction person if you know one. Getting the bathtub out is the first major thing. Luckily we have the use of a shower in our basement...because we have the same problem getting into and out of a tub.
You can buy exactly what you need at places like Home Depot, Lowes, and Menards. You can buy a walk in shower unit that includes a seat and a shower door that will not require adding tile because they are all one piece and include the walls. You can also buy hand grips if the unit you choose does not have any. They attach to your shower unit with very strong suction cups--my 90 year old mother uses these and they are very safe and sturdy. The shower units are very reasonably priced and you should be able to find one to fit your budget. Then you can call your local area plumbers and get estimates for installation. You will have to look for a shower unit that would be installed in two or three pieces because you are doing a remodel and a one piece unit may not fit through your doorway.
Hi. You will need to demo the walls and add wood where you want the grab bars. You also need to install either green board in the USA or whatever is recommended in your area for wet rooms. A pan is easier ti install than attempting the correct angle of tiles to the drain. Pans can be special ordered to accommodate the existing drain. Some pans are no ledge which would be good for ya'll. Then ass your tile and door. Good luck!
Removing a standard bathtub and having a shower with a seat installed is a very sensible idea. It is so much safer to access and to keep clean, for persons of any age. However, if you do not have any previous experience with carpentry, plumbing, or finishing, it is not an average diy project.
Two main options are after having the old tub cut apart and removed:
1/have a new shower stall completely built and finished with tiles
2/have a pre-made one-piece shower stall installed into this space
Either way, depending on the dimensions of your bathroom, age of the home, and accommodations, the cost will likely be into the $thousands.
This one is out of my league. Hopefully someone can help. Try getting some quotes first and ask how they would do it. Not knowing what the tub is made of might make a big difference (ceramic or fiberglas etc)
Come back an tell us if you have made any headway!
Re: Gk's comment to get suction cup grab bars.
Although they may be fine for their use, in my experience I would not trust any suction cup grab bars to be consistently supportive with any reliability. I have seen persons of all ages being seriously injured due to this style breaking, sliding, or pulling away completely from the wall. Their quality varies greatly according to brand, size, and material they are made from.
Go the extra step in the direction of safely, spend a few dollars more and purchase sturdy, heavy bars that are properly anchored directly into the bath or shower walls.