How to address a soft bathroom floor?
by
Bill Elliott
+1
Do I need to remove the tub if repairing and replacing the floor in the bathroom? Are there any alternatives to tile that is water proof and nice under foot? Possibly less expensive?
Thanks
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Are you on a raised foundation? You should not need to remove the tub if just replacing flooring. Unless, there are rotted joists from undetected leaks or termite damage. You should consider suiting up and crawling underneath to see what is going on, or hire a contractor.
I like the new vinyl products, either planks or sheet vinyl.
If there's good solid flooring, or you know there are no issues, under or around your tub, you're OK to leave it in. If any repairs need to be done near or under the tub, then yes, removing the tub is a good idea to get a complete replacement. My bathrooms have a textured thick vinyl floor that is waterproof, and feels cushy under our feet. It is definitely less expensive than tile, coming in a roll you can cut to fit.
Since you are "repairing" the floor, you may find unforeseen conditions, due to water damage and aging structure. That will answer your question on removing the tub or not.
High quality sheet vinyl will be waterproof and nice under foot. It is not forgiving for self-installation, you cut it wrong and it's cut wrong. That would be a reason to remove the tub.
Ceramic tile is not WaterProof without other qualifications. For example, a shower stall must have a waterproof membrane behind its' tile. For example, a commercial restaurant kitchen's grout, is Epoxy grout (which is not forgiving for beginning installers).
Ceramic Tile Grout: I recommend that a minimum you use the smallest grout joints possible, or buy gauged tile and use no grout joints at all.
Use polymer additives to both the thinset as well as the grout, if you use grout.
Use non-sanded grout.
Then seal the dried grout with a non-yellowing grout sealer, not linseed oil.
You shouldn't need to remove the tub. Unless it is a clawfoot tub and the floor under it is exposed. I recommend this vinyl planking for easy install, inexpensive, (relatively speaking) waterproof, softer than tile. We have it in 3 bathrooms and love it! (click to go to my DIY decorating blog Simple Decorating Tips for full details)