Things You’ll Need

• Adjusting wrench
• Reciprocating saw
• Phillips screwdriver
• Flat-head screwdriver
• PVC pipe cutter
• PVC joint cleaner
• PVC cement
• Hammer
• Cold chisel
• 1 by 4 skids
• Piece of plywood
• Pry bar

7 Steps to Removing Your Bathtub (DIY)

1. Remove the wall panel to gain access to the bathtub pipes. If there’s no simple way to do-it-yourself, you will have to remove a piece of the wall itself to expose the bathtub plumbing.
2. Shut off the main water supply.
3. Use the adjustable wrench for disconnecting the drain pipe of the tub. Loosen slip nut connection to the overflow pipe, and the bathtub strainer. This will release the drain pipe from below the bathtub strainer.
4. Remove the faucets that adjust both the cold and water. Start from the bathtub side and work your way backward to the supply line.
5. Remove the material covering the wall around the tub to expose the clips.

• For tile covering, only one complete row needs to be removed all the way around the bathtub, using the cold chisel and hammer.
• If no tiles exist, only about four inches around the bathtub need to be removed.

6. Use the pry bar to pry the edges of the bathtub away from the wall. Use the scrap plywood for protection. If it seems almost impossible to pry away from the wall, use these tips:

• Resistance may mean that the tubs isn’t completely disconnected from the water system or the bathtub drain.
• If you believe this is the case, check it again. Once you’ve ensured the disconnections, try prying the tub away from the wall again. Contact an DIY plumbing expert if you need assistance.

7. Remove the bathtub enclosure. Place it on the 1X4 skids to make it easier for you to slide the bathtub completely out. For more difficult removals:

• Use the reciprocating saw, or Sawzall, and cut the bathtub in two places, across the width (short way) of the tub.
• You now have three smaller, lighter in weight pieces to remove instead. Remove all three sections and dispose of them properly.

DIY Bathroom Ideas

Here are a few other do-it-yourself bathroom ideas for your bathroom renovation project:

• DIY – How to Remove an Old Toilet in 5 Easy Steps
• DIY – How to Install a Vessel Sink in Your Bathroom
• DIY: How to Demolish Your Bathroom
• DIY – How to Frame a Bathroom Mirror
• DIY – How to Install an Radiant Floor Mat
• DIY: How to Change Your Bathroom Lighting
• DIY Bathtub Installation Ideas

DIY Alcove Bathtub Installation

Alcove tubs are sunken bathtubs that are usually rectangular shaped. They are installed next to three connected walls, which leaves one side open for getting in and out of the tub. The front and back and other side of the alcove bathtub are bordered by walls or shower wall. They are considered standard bathtubs, but their depths can vary.

During your DIY bathtub installation, you designate your alcove tub as a “right handed” or “left handed” bathtub. This is all about placing the drain where it’s most conveniently accessible to you based on whether you’re a right hand or left hand person.

DIY Platform Bathtub Installation

These DIY bathtubs for by multiple other names: “platform”, “deck mounted” and “drop in.” When installing these tubs, they are sat atop a deck structure that is built upward, as opposed to outward. The tub rim is placed at the same level as the top of the deck.

Another style DIY installation of these platform bathtubs requires placing them down into the bathroom floor. The bathtub rim is left level with the floor. If the tub is deep in depth, this DIY tub installation style makes it harder to get in and out of the platform tub.

DIY Undermount Bathtub Installation

These tubs are very similar to platform tubs except for one thing. The bathtub rim is covered a deck made of stone, tile or similar bathtub material. The weight of the undermount bathtub is supported by the floor itself.

When debating on using an undermount tub, consider how long you plan to keep it. These tubs are very difficult to remove, as the decks will have to be broken into pieces for removal. So, if there is a high possibility of you having to de-install your bathtub someday soon, this may not be a wise of cost-effective DIY bathtub installation choice for you.

DIY Free Standing Bathtub Installation

Free-standing bathtubs are just as the name implies. They stand, by themselves, directly onto the bathroom floor. There are no support structures, such as cabinets, etc… Two examples of free-standing tubs are the clawfoot and vintage bathtubs. These types of DIY tub installations need to be near water delivery and plumbing drainage points.

Starting Your DIY Bathroom from Scratch

Your DIY bathroom choices should be dictated by the type of bathtub you choose to use. It also depend heavily on the type of bathtub material you choose, especially when weight is a factor. Starting from scratch, in a completely gutted and demolished bathroom can give you many more options for a completely new bathroom design and layout.

Contemporary Luxury Bathtubs

Contemporary style bathtubs offer a deep soaking experience. There is a gentle “swoop” in the back of the tub, designed for resting your head, neck and back when laying back in the tub. The contemporary look makes these tubs easy to incorporate into just about any style DIY bathroom project.

Soaker Bathtubs For Smaller Bathrooms

Have you been eyeballing those stylish free-standing soaker tubs, but your bathroom seems just too small to accommodate one? Instead of a standard size air tub, think about installing a smaller sized soaker tub. There are some make as a smaller version of pedestal-based tubs. You can also find rectangular shaped air tubs in smaller sizes too.

Heaters & Electronic Controls for Bathtubs

You can find some great heater choices for your whirlpool tub or air tub to help keep your bath water warmer longer. Most heating pumps limit the movement of the water, making your bathing experience more calming in the still water. More expensive heaters come with gadgets that control the heat and water pressure.

Conventional Bathtubs with Soaker Features

If you’re leaning towards a conventional alcove-style bathtub, there are some with features similar to soaker tubs. They can hold more water than standard bathtubs, allowing for a deeper soaking experience. This is made possible by the overflow drains which are installed higher up in the tub. You’ll love the way these tubs allow you to immerse yourself into your bath water.

Bathtubs That Project Sound and Light

Did you know that there are bathtubs that project sound and light? Now, how’s that for bathtub innovation? The calming instrumental music that plays can be heard above the surface of the bath water. You can also “feel” the music on your body below the surface of the water. You can use the interface to listen to your own tunes right from your laptop or MP3 player.

Chromatherapy (Color Therapy)

Chromatherapy is a holistic way of using color to achieve good health. In your bathing experience, it can be used to stimulate your visual sense. This can either energize or soothe your mood, depending on the colors used. The different colors of lights can be synchronized with music vibrations, with pre-programmed light shows.

Need Assistance?

Our DIY bathroom expert can help assist you with your DIY bathtub project. To start your DIY bathroom remodeling project from scratch, you should think about “DIY: How to Demolish Your Bathroom” for assistance.

Cast Iron Bathtubs

Since cast iron so strong and durable cast iron tubs are considered by most to be one of the most durable fixtures inside a home. They have been known to last, reliably, for decades.

• They usually come as alcove or free-standing bathroom fixtures.
• The finish durability is amazing, but it is sensitive to scouring and abrasives, causing scratches on the surface.
• If the enamel wears, the revealed cast iron material could rust.
• Extremely heavy tubs that require an even more durable floor structure to support it.

Enamel On Steel Bathtubs

These tubs, which are also known as “porcelain-on-steel”, look a lot like cast iron bathtubs.

• They weigh much less than cast iron tubs, making them much easy for your DIY bathtub installation project.
• The surface is easier to clean than some other types of tub materials.
• Also easily rusted if the finish wears, exposing the steel or porcelain.

Acrylic Bathtubs

Simply put, acrylic is a type of plastic. Acrylic tubs have a similar enamel-like look as cast iron and steel bathtubs.

• Weight much less than both iron and steel bathtubs, making them a less back-breaking choice for your DIY bathroom project.
• Comes in gorgeous high-gloss finishes to give your DIY bathroom an amazing, new look.
• Surface is also easy to scratch, but much more easy to repair these scratches that porcelain finishes.
• This is the material usually used for whirlpools and air tubs.

Fiberglass Gelcoat Bathtubs (FRP)

Fiberglass-reinforced plastic is a tub that’s covered with “gelcoat”, which provides a smooth, easy to clean surface.

• Similar to acrylic material, but no where near as durable.
• Not only is it easy to scratch, it can be easily cracked if hit hard enough.
• This glossy material is also used in certain types of air tubs and whirlpool bathtubs.

Composite Bathtubs

The finished surface of composite bathtubs are enamel. There purpose is the achieve the same benefits of cast iron tubs. Some of these benefits include:

• Heat retention to keep bath water warm longer
• Durably finished surface
• Plus: don’t weigh as much as cast iron tubs

There are also some disadvantages to these tubs when you compare them directly to cast iron bathtubs:

• Can weigh up to 1/3 the weight of cast iron bathtubs
• Creaking sounds reported by users when not installed properly

Cultured Marble Bathtubs

This material is designed by crushing marble and combining it with resins. This produces a solid surface, similar to quartz countertops.

• Also covered with a gelcoat, this cultured marble tubs are very durable and easy to clean
• The gelcoat finish makes the tub surface stain resistant
• Scratches can be buffed smooth, but cracks in the cultured marble tub surface are generally unrepairable

What do you want from your bathtub?

Will you be using your bathtub as a household appliance… bathing the kids, washing the dog, soaking the curtains? Or, will you be spending quality time in your bathtub, relaxing and basking in the solitude? Keep in mind that tubs aren’t cheap, and installing them, even do-it-yourself bathtub installations, are not can’t be done in minutes. So, it’s very important to define your personal needs when it comes to a new tub. Here are two special notes:

1. Deeper bathtubs are not very safe for younger children. They are also extremely inconvenient for elderly or physically challenged household members.
2. Hydrotherapy spas, whirlpools and air tubs create an refreshing sauna experience. If you’re lucky enough to have your own master bathroom, these tubs are perfect for people with active lifestyles. The massages they provide can be so therapeutic.

Are you remodeling or starting from scratch?

• A DIY bathroom demolishing can open up more options for you. Starting from a gutted bathroom starting point allows you to decide where you want your bathtub this time, without constraints created by other bathroom fixtures.
• If you decide to install your bathtub in an existing bathroom, this may limit you because of space, the location of the plumbing, and electrical outlets for whirlpools and spa tubs. But, don’t worry. You can still be creative enough to find a great tub just right for you.

What are your comfort needs?

• No matter what type of bathtub your choose for your DIY project, you should always keep comfort in mind. Go to different bathtub manufacturer’s websites and check out the technical specifications of tubs you’re considering. Look at the physical features, depth, size, shape, etc… to ensure that it’s something you’ll enjoy bathing in.
• Another great idea is to visit bathtub showrooms and actually sit in the floor models. If you’re a “bath lover” who likes to soak in the tub for long periods of time, this is the best option for you to choose a comfortable tub.

Where are the jets located?

This may not sound important at first glance, but if you like to lay back in the tub, this is important. It can also be a deciding factor for very tall and short people. If the jets are placed in an area that will cause you physical discomfort when you’re relaxing in your tub, this won’t do. Here are two quick tips:

1. If you’re a person who needs a back massage at the end of a physically strenuous day, make sure the jets are near those special places in your back.
2. Try to choose a whirlpool-type tub that has jets near your feet in you like foot massages at the end of your long day.

Is the tub too heavy for your bathroom floor?

You should check your bathroom floor out to make sure that it’s strong enough to support your bathtub when it’s full of water. A tub weighing 150 pounds with a 103 gallon capacity, can weigh in total 1,008 pounds when full. That’s not including your weight. If you’re not sure about the strength of your bathroom floor, contact a DIY expert for assistance.

Types Of Bathtubs

Contrary to what many think, there are many varieties of bathtubs. Each type serves a different purpose, allowing for a different type of bath and shower experience. Here are a few:

• General Purpose Bathtub
  This is not an actual technical term for a bathtub. But, this term is used to describe the everyday bathtubs we all grew up using in our own homes. They are standard sized, with no extra features. They are generally used for taking baths, including bathing kids and pets. They are not fancy, but if you like baths, they serve the purpose quite well.

• Soaking Tub
  These bathtubs are for true bath lovers! They are much deeper that standard size tubs. This allows you to immerse your entire body into the nice, warm water, for a truly invigorating bath experience. Soaking tubs come in a variety of styles and shapes. You can also choose them according to the amount of water you would like them to be able to hold. Two popular types of soaking tubs are the clawfoot and vintage style free-standing tubs.

• Walk-In Bathtub
  These bathtubs are becoming more popular with older bathers, as well as those with physical limitations. They comes with a door that opens up, allowing you to just walk into the bathtub, as opposed to climbing into it. There’s a seal on the door that keeps the water inside while you bathe. These DIY bathtubs can be customized to fit your irregularly shaped bathroom.

• Whirlpool & Air Tubs
  Both of these bathtubs are all about therapeutic bathing. Built in the style of a jacuzzi, they are designed to shoot water and bubbles into the tub, in strategic locations. This gives you the satisfaction of getting a full body massage, while you enjoy your bath. What are the major differences between the two?
• Whirlpool – shoots water into the tub, which stirs the water around, causing a soothing, massaging effect.
• Air Tub – shoots air through the system, into the bath water. This creates thousands of air bubbles that stirs up the water, creating a messaging effect.

Special DIY Note

Whirlpools and air tubs are much more complex than other bathtubs. This makes them a little more complex as a do-it-yourself bathtub installation project. They require special water pumps, filters, hoses and other items in order to circulate the water properly for message purposes.

For your DIY bathroom remodeling project, think about changing the your bathroom lighting to create a more relaxing ambiance. Here’s a blog post that can help: DIY: How to Change Your Bathroom Lighting. We also have some great tips on DIY bathroom sinks and DIY toilet tips.

Step 1: Access the Area above the Ceiling

Check the ceiling in your bathroom ensure that there aren’t, obstacles like electrical wires or pipes that will hinder the DIY lighting installation. Check it through a crawl space, if possible.

Step 2: Mark the Location for the Lights

If all is clear, extend the power from the existing light fixture using a 14-2 wiring. Then, using a stud finder, measure the ceiling and locate overhead joists. Mark the locations for the three new lights between the joists.

Step 3: Trace a Pattern

Trace a pattern for the new light fixtures. With the use of a circular template included with the light fixture, trace the pattern onto the ceiling. Carefully cut out the circle using a drywall saw.

Step 4: Connect the Terminals

Reach into the hole and pull out the wiring run from the original light fixture. Strip the wire and connect it to terminals on the first new light. Run brand new wiring from the terminal to the next DIY lighting fixture.

Step 5: Engage the Built-In Catches

When you have properly wired the light fixtures, insert it into the hole and engage the built-in catches. These built-in catches will grab the surrounding drywall which secures the lighting.

Step 6: Connect the springs

Screw the light bulbs in and turn the electrical power back on at the circuit breaker.

More DIY Home Lighting Guides

• How to Install DIY Recessed Lighting in the Kitchen

• Do-It-Yourself: How to Install Track Lighting

• How to Install Lighting Above Your Kitchen Cabinets – DIY

• DIY – Exterior Lighting Installation for Your Home

Step 1: Shut Off Electrical Output

Shut off the electrical power supply at the main circuit breaker.

Step 2: Strip Back Electrical Wiring

With the use of razor blade, slit the middle of the electrical wire gently from top, down. Only slit its plastic sheath coating to reveal the 5 to 7 inches of wiring.

Step 3: Remove Knock-Out Flap

Use pliers to take out the knock-out flap located on the back of the shallow single gang box.

Step 4: Secure Box to Cabinet

Use a drill, to secure the box to the top of the cabinets. Try to place it somewhere discreet, like a corner, to avoid it being seen.

Step 5: Feed Wires through Knock-Out

Put the wires through the knock-out so they lay in the single gang box.

Step 6: Staple Wiring

Put back the excess wiring into the wall and staple the other wiring on top of the cabinet for a more attractive finish.

Step 7: Attach Light Fixture

Put the light fixture onto the center of the top of cabinet and tightly drill it down with small screws.

Step 8: Lop Off Male End

• When you look at the light fixture itself, you will notice a power cord with a two-pronged male end. Cut off the male end using a pair of wire cutters.

• Note: For this DIY project, you will be hard-wiring the lighting fixture directly into the junction box.

Step 9: Connect Power Cord to Fixture

Connect the other end of the power cord to the fixture.

Step 10: Strip Power Cord Plastic Sheath

The power cord of the DIY light fixture has two individual wires attached together. Pull these wires apart from one another and slit the plastic sheath on the middle just like you did with the electrical wire.

Step 11: Feed Power Cord through Knock-Out

Slip the power cord from the fixture through the same knock out as the electrical wire.

Step 12: Connect Power Cord and Electrical Cord Wires

For connecting the power cord and electric cord wires, you’ll use pair of pliers. Connect the copper wires from the power cord to the black and white copper wires from the electrical cord by twirling both together in a clockwise rotation.

Step 13: Lock In Connection

Cap off each connection using a 14-gauge wire nut. Twist the wire nut in a clockwise fashion to tighten the connection even further.

Step 14: Tuck Wires into Single Gang Box

After connecting all three wires and capping each one off, put them back into the single gang box. Install a blank plate over the top.

Step 15: Turn On Electricity

Flip the main breaker switch back on to provide electricity to the fixture. See how the lighting gives your kitchen the calm ambiance that it needed? Now, that you’re done installing your DIY above cabinet lighting, it’s time to enjoy your hard work.

Check out some of our other DIY home lighting guides:

• How to Install DIY Recessed Lighting in the Kitchen

• Do-It-Yourself: How to Install Track Lighting

• DIY: How to Change Your Bathroom Lighting

• DIY – Exterior Lighting Installation for Your Home

Step 1: Do Your Spot Checks

Create a lighting plan. Mark the location of where your recessed lights will be installed. Use the laser level to make sure that the markings are in a straight line. Using a coat hanger, poke the marks to make sure the area is strong enough to support the DIY lights so that they won’t just fall on a joist. Make sure to do any adjustments needed before starting to your DIY light installation.

Step 2: Cut the Holes

After making the guide marks and checking the spots, you can now make a hole for your recessed lights. Make a hole on the ceiling following the marks by using a drill with a hole saw attachment. Then set the recessed lights in place and tightly nail them to the joists. Make sure to strip the end of the wire with a wire stripper.

Step 3: Feed Wires through the Connector

When you’re done setting your recessed lights, remove the cap from the light fixture and snap the easy connector into the light fixture. Put the connector in both sets of wire and insert the clip from the side and squeeze it with pliers.

Step 4: Connect the Wires

The last part of installing your DIY recessed lights involves setting up all the wires and connectors. To do that, push the ends of the wires into the wire connector. Put all the wiring back in the box and put on the cover plate. Lastly, snap the trim kits on the lights. And now, you can enjoy your clever looking recessed lights on your kitchen!

Safety Note:

• Don’t forget to wear necessary protective gear when working around insulation.

• Make sure to get expert assistance if you don’t know how to use the equipment.

Other DIY Lighting Ideas

Looking for other DIY lighting ideas for your home? We have some pretty good ideas on stylish lighting choices. Our DIY home lighting tips give you step-by-step instructions to guide you through your project. Interested in DIY interior lighting? How about Do-It-Yourself: How To Install Track Lighting or for DIY exterior lighting, we have DIY – Exterior Lighting Installation for Your Home.

]]> http://plumbingwithpex.com/diy/how-to-install-diy-recessed-lighting-in-the-kitchen/feed/ 0 http://plumbingwithpex.com/diy/do-it-yourself-how-to-install-track-lighting/ http://plumbingwithpex.com/diy/do-it-yourself-how-to-install-track-lighting/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:15:32 +0000 Kiesha http://plumbingwithpex.com/?p=89179 Are you worried about your dark hallway that’s really in need of some light? Dark hallways can be creepy to walk through, especially at night. Walking through a dark hallway may remind the kids of some pretty scary movies. This is not something to ignore. Dark hallways can also be very unsafe. You may trip over something at night, and really hurt yourself. They can also be very inviting to intruders that like to lurk in the dark.

Do-it-yourself track lighting installation can be very helpful in this situation. DIY track lights provide the necessary light needed for a dark hallway or any other room in your house that needs more light. They are also very stylish. They come in many different designs and colors to fit your home décor. And, to save money, they are a great, simple DIY project. Here are some step-by-step instructions for your DIY track lighting installation:

Step 1: Remove the Old Fixture

• Keep in mind that safety is very important when it comes to electricity. For your DIY track lighting installation, you should wear insulated gloves for added protection.

• Before to starting any kind of electrical work, always switch off the electrical power at the main circuit breaker.

• Take out the old light fixture. See to it that the wires don’t touch while you remove the DIY lighting fixture.

Step 2: Mark and Mount the Track

• Place the new lighting track over the area where the old fixture used to be. If you want to change the position of the new fixture from where the old one was, clean off any marks left by the old fixture’s placement, or paint it again to hide the marks.

• Mark mounting holes by sticking a pen or pencil through the holes while holding the track up to the ceiling surface.

• Use self-tapping screws. These types of screws don’t require pre-drilled holes. Use it to mount the track towards the ceiling.

• Safety Tip: Do it carefully and safely by asking someone to support you by holding the fixture while you mount it to the ceiling.

Step 3: Connect the Wires

• Attach jumper wires to the house wires within the ceiling, and then attach jumpers towards the heart of the track.

• Check it thoroughly to ensure that the wires are all attached and in place properly.

• Carefully push all the wires hiding them in the ceiling and close-up using the provided cover.

Step 4: Add the Lights

• Lastly, snap the lights into position around the track and add the bulbs.

• Switch on the breaker and point the lights in the desired positions.

You have now completed your DIY track lighting installation project. For more lighting, simply add more tracks. For more interior lighting choices, check out our DIY ceiling fan installation project. Or, check out our ideas for DIY exterior lighting for your home.