How To Replace Jacuzzi Tub With Freestanding Tub

How To Replace Jacuzzi Tub With Freestanding Tub

An outdated Jacuzzi tub can make your home or bathroom look old. If you don’t want to update an old Jacuzzi tub to bring it back to life, you can replace it with a freestanding tub to add to the beauty of your bathroom.

What Is a Freestanding Tub?

A freestanding tub is a bathtub that has all four sides exposed and sits directly on your bathroom floor. They serve as a focal point, instantly grabbing your eye when you enter the bathroom.

Types of Freestanding Tubs

Once you have decided to replace a Jacuzzi with a freestanding tub, you also need to know the different types available on the market. The types of freestanding tubs include;

• Floor-set models
• Footed bathtubs
• Slipper bathtubs
• Pedestal bathtubs

Pros

• Choice. A freestanding tub can fit any design style. There is a variety of these tubs ranging from the traditional clawfoot tub to modern egg-shaped soaking tubs. Interior designers love them because they are not limited by the need to fit between walls or into tile, which gives them the ability to be more creative with the shape.
• Look. Most people go for a freestanding tub because of the look. The tub is unique and makes a statement that is often associated with luxury.
• Installation. Compared to a Jacuzzi or a built-in tub, a freestanding tub is easy to install. Instead of hiring a contractor, you’ll likely just need a plumber to help with the installation.
• Placement. A freestanding tub will allow you to use your space more creatively. Unlike built-in tubs that need two or more walls for installation, a freestanding tub can be placed anywhere.

Cons

• Price. Freestanding tubs are more expensive than built-in tubs. This is because they are more difficult to build and have more design flourishes.
• Weight. Most freestanding tubs, especially cast iron tubs, can be extremely heavy and may require floor reinforcement.
• ProTip Takeaway: Fiberglass models are also available but are less common and can be more expensive. They are also generally larger which means they will weigh more when full of water.
• Showerless. A freestanding tub is showerless but it is possible to mount a shower to it which tends to look ungainly and requires a wrap-around curtain.
• Size. One might have difficulty getting in and out of the freestanding tub due to its size. Some tubs are also too tall to lean over the edge, which is a problem when you’re bathing a child.

Freestanding Tub Cost

A freestanding tub costs between $600 to $15,000 and $2,500 on average depending on the style. They come in different shapes and styles, with straight or curved sides, and can be positioned anywhere in the bathroom.

The average cost to install a freestanding tub is between $650 and $4,600. This price can vary depending on the style, materials, and faucet you choose for your new bathtub.

Cost Of Removing A Jacuzzi Tub

The cost of removing a Jacuzzi tub depends on the setup and type of work to be done. If you do it as a DIY, it will cost less than taking professional service.

It will cost around $200-300 when you remove it by yourself. If you involve a plumber, it will cost around $500-1000 depending on their rating. The better the rating, the more they will charge.

How To Remove A Jacuzzi Tub

You will need:

• Step 1: Disconnect the electricity and water supply

Drain water from the tub, faucets, and water supply pipes. Shut off the main water pump with a switch that is inside the house.

Turn off the jets and other electrical connections to the tub. Disconnect the electrical connections and jets. Use a screwdriver to unplug all of the electrical cables and wires in a secure manner. 

ProTip Takeaway: Make sure the primary electrical panel is grounded because if it isn't, catastrophic accidents could happen.

• Step 2: Remove the small items attached to the jacuzzi

Use channel lock pliers to remove the shower, shower curtains, and rod. Then use a super bar to remove the access panel at the side of the tub.

Use a screwdriver to remove faucets and other fixtures.

Finally, use an adjustable wrench to detach the plumbing lines.

• Step 3: Remove the jacuzzi tub

Start by hitting the concrete or tile corners and break them with the help of a hammer and reciprocating saw. Cut the surroundings of the jacuzzi tub out with a sharp knife or a jigsaw.

Ask for assistance and carefully lift the jacuzzi tub out of the washroom since it is very heavy.

How to Install a Freestanding Tub

It is recommended that you hire the services of experts to install a freestanding tub but the installation process is simple for you to try in your home. Consider the following:

• The Type of the Tub

It’s wise to first consider whether the freestanding tub will fit in bathroom space, function, and blend with other fixtures.

• Functional or Decorative

A freestanding tub must be functional and decorative which means it should serve its need in the bathroom as a bathtub and exude luxury and style.

• Tub Compatibility with Bathroom Space

Freestanding tubs are available, are made from different materials, and have various shapes and sizes. They are available in materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, stone, acrylic, and copper.

ProTip Takeaway: Acrylic tubs can withstand less impact but offer a more elegant visual appeal with a bright finish.

Be sure to measure the bathroom space to know the size of the freestanding bathtub to buy. Also, consider your bathroom lighting, plumbing, and windows finishing before installing your tub.

• Type of Floor

Freestanding floors should not be installed on an unleveled floor. Most bathroom floors don’t have the levelness for installing freestanding bathtubs so ensure you have a level floor before installation.

You Will Need:

Easy Steps to Installing Freestanding Tub

• Step 1: Choose the preferred place

First, you’ll have to decide on the right place for installing your freestanding tub. You can choose to keep it in the center, corner, or beside the window. 

Another point to consider is the proximity to the existing plumbing installation. If your bathroom needs some remodeling of the pipes you should hire a professional plumber.

• Step 2: Choose the Right Tub

With many freestanding tubs available on the market, try to choose one that is appealing to the eye, long-lasting, and will fit your bathroom size.

• Step 3: Prepare the Bathroom Floor

The floor has to be in perfect condition to receive your freestanding tub. Create a drain if you don’t have an existing one.

If you have a wooden subfloor, first measure the size of your tub. Next, recreate the bottom of the freestanding tub on the floor. Open this section of the floor by cutting a hole that will accommodate the drain and the plumbing trap.

If you have a concrete floor, create a channel for the drain and plumbing trap.

Ensure you cover the drain hole to protect it from dirt and debris. You will also need to perform the necessary finishing work on the concrete floor.

• Step 4: Set the Freestanding Bathtub

Every freestanding tub comes with a drain kit and a drain nut. Also, ensure the waste location in the bathtub is aligned with the drain hole on the floor.

Measure the drain under the tub to know its level of alignment with the floor.

Then place the tub by the side on a blanket and support it with cardboard.

• Step 5: Clean the Drain Hole

You’ll need to have a clean drain hole before installing the tub. Try to clean out any debris and dirt on the drain hole using a damp cloth and then leave it to dry. Then, pour some dry silicone in and around the drain hole.

• Step 6: Prepare the Drain Tail Piece

Begin by placing a plastic bushing on the drain tailpiece. Then, attach the drain tailpiece to the freestanding tub from the bottom. Next, slide in the nuts and screw them up into the tub’s drain. You can also add some lubrication to the drain’s rubber seal.

• Step 7: Install the Freestanding Bathtub

Now, guide the freestanding tub into position. Caulk the tub at its point of contact with the floor and try to clean off any excess caulk with a damp cloth.

Are you ready to replace your jacuzzi?

A freestanding tub can enhance the beauty and functionality of your bathroom. Installing a freestanding tub is easy if you adhere to the steps we’ve provided. Replacing a jacuzzi with a freestanding tub can also be a difficult and tiring process in your home. If you are in Houston or any surrounding area Call a professional from Smart Remodeling LLC to help you with the replacement process. Contact us at 832-808-8889 or sales@smartremodelingllc.com.

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