How does one remove a step up to tub? Sledgehammer?
+7
Our master has the original 70’s tub...up one wide step then down into the iron-stained tub. I’m guessing if I want to replace tub, that step has to go! Probably a huge investment but we are putting house on the market in May. Any ideas thoroughly and thankfully welcomed!!!
Use a reciprocating saw (sawzall), cut it in 2 or 3 pieces.
It is a loud operation, but makes the bath easy to rip off and carry by hand.
You can even put it to the curb.
The city should pick up that size.
They did in our town.
Good luck.
Is the tub in good condition other than the iron staining ? If it is no need to replace . Use the blue Lyson Toilet bowl cleaner and a paint brush . Paint your tub with it and let sit for about 10 minutes , rinse iron (rust stains) should be gone . If still some stubborn spots , do again . To maintain , reuse the Lysol product when you start to see stains again .
I forgot to mention please use gloves when apply the toilet bowl cleaner
Cleaning tub is probably the best option. You could also have the tub repainted. Removing step, replacing tub, and other costs probably won't get any construction expenses covered in sale price. New owner may want to remodel.
In removing the tub, you will have to rebuild the tub frame, probably retile the whole bathroom floor, recaulk, and possibly make repairs to the wall, and possibly have to update the plumbing, besides buying a new tub. Check the cost for all the changes. Then consider putting ten $100 bills in an envelope to be given to the buyer for bathroom updates. Sometimes, cash wins over style. Best wishes ☺️
Kathy, you are right in thinking that the first step up may have been built with the house footprint. Yes, it may have been 'upscale' in the '70's but I think that it is just a tripping accident waiting to injure someone.
It can be removed, but depending on what is under the tiles, the underfloor may have to be rebuilt as well.
This job is by no means a quick weekend project.
If the house is going up for sale as soon as May, from personal experience, I say leave it alone; don't do anything to the space. Once you start, it will be a messy can of worms that you have opened.
Jewell has the best idea yet- offer a generous cash incentive to a buyer, enticing them with "they can update the bathroom to a design that they want", get the house sold, and move on.