You cleaned and scrubbed your tub, but it still looks worn-out and grimy. Maybe it has cracks and chips that seem to multiply each day. Not to mention the icky old caulking. Your bathtub has seen better days. No doubt about it -- it’s time for your tub to take a hike.
Your bathtub is the most prominent feature in your bathroom. Upgrading your bathtub can drastically improve the appearance of your bathroom and your family’s comfort. Your new tub can freshen up your bathroom and give it a nice upgrade.
How do I replace my bathtub with a new tub in Los Angeles?
You may have heard that replacing your bathtub could be a DIY project -- some websites even claim it can be done in one day! Bear in mind that this is a very high-level project for only those people with a lot of experience in home repair projects. The best thing to do is to hire a professional who has the experience and know-how to get the job done correctly, the first time around.
There are many things to consider in removing a bathtub, which is why you should hire a professional contractor for the job. First of all, to remove the existing tub, you’ll have to open up the three walls surrounding it. If your bathroom is small, the toilet, sink and cabinetry may also need to be removed.
Then, there is the issue of tub size. Many homes in Los Angeles are 50 years or older. New tubs tend to be a different width than old tubs, which means that before you can install a new tub, you need to remove the base moulding, floor covering, and underlayment. All these things will need to be replaced.
And then, there is the tile. If you have tile on the walls around your bathtub, much of it will be damaged during the removal.
As you can see, replacing a tub may seem easy on the outside, but it is actually a quite complex project. It makes sense to hire a professional.
What are my bathtub options in Los Angeles?
Your bathtub will most likely be the priciest part of the whole project. There are many options out there, so you want to consider how you will use your tub. Do you like to luxuriate in long soaks? Are you concerned about mobility issues of someone living in your home now or in the future? Do you want a tub that features soothing water jets?
- Cast Iron: These heat-retaining tubs keep your bath water hotter for longer, and are very durable. An enameled cast iron tub will run between $500 and $2,000.
- Marble: For a more high-end option, consider cultured marble. It is an aesthetically pleasing and durable bathtub material. It is, however, a more expensive choice, running from about $1,500 to $2,200 for only the tub.
- Fiberglass: Looking to replace your old tub and keep costs down? Fiberglass could be a good choice. With a wide array of colors and designs to choose from, 60-inch tub can cost between $200 and $500.
- Soaking Tubs: These bathtubs hold more water and are best suited for longer soaks in the bath. They cost between $250 and $12,000.
- Walk In Tubs: These are the best choice for people who have mobility issues now or are considering those options in the future. With a walk-in tub, you literally walk into the tub, sit on a bench, and wait for warm water to envelope you. These tend to cost between $1,500 to $10,000.
- Whirlpool Tubs: For the ultimate spa experience in your home, consider a whirlpool tub. They do tend to use more water and may require changes in your plumbing system, so expect to spend between $400 and $14,000 on a whirlpool tub.
How much does a bathtub replacement cost in Los Angeles?
While the bathtub is obviously the biggest expense in this project, you also have to keep in mind the cost of labor and other materials. You should plan on spending about $4,000 to tear out your old tub and install a new one. However, depending on the tub and fixtures you choose, that price could range from $1,200 to $7,000 or more.
Plan on spending more if you are installing a specialized tub that requires new plumbing. Plumbing can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,800 for this job, depending on how complex your bathtub installation is. Most plumbers charge by the hour, at a rate of $45 to $64 per hour.
How long will it take to install my new bathtub in Los Angeles?
Installing a new bathtub will probably take about 1 to 2 days, depending on the complexity of the project. Most new tubs will take about 6 to 9 hours to install. It will take about 3 additional hours to remove your existing tub. Of course, if the toilet and any cabinetry needs to be moved and replaced, that could add more time on to the project. In general, though, you can expect your new tub to be installed in about 2 days. Then you can enjoy soaking in your new tub.
Looking for a free estimate for your project? Call Los Angeles Bathroom Remodel today at (323) 402-6381.
