Remodeling your bathroom is an excellent way to increase your home's value and livability. Don't be afraid to tackle this project, it is not as difficult as it might appear. The largest item in any bathroom is the bathtub. Replacing the bathtub and the wall coverings around it will completely change the look of your bathroom. The replacement process has three stages: removal, repair, and reinstallation. Does this Spark an idea?
Removal
Remove the surface of the walls surrounding the bathtub; take them down to the studs. The walls surrounding the tub are actually resting on the tub, or riding down over the lip of the tub. The three types of surround materials that will need to be removed include pre-fabricated fiberglass surround, tiled walls or vinyl panels. Remove the surround underlayment. Materials commonly used as underlayment are drywall and fiber board. Remove all plumbing fixtures before removing the tub. Remove any fasteners holding the tub in place, then pull out the bathtub.
Repair
Inspect the wall framing and subfloor for any damage or dry rot. Replace any damaged boards or plywood. Install insulation in the walls (exterior walls require insulation for energy efficiency, and interior walls may have insulation for sound proofing as an option.)
Install a vapor barrier to the face of the studs from floor to ceiling wherever studs are exposed. Vapor barriers prevent moisture vapor from traveling through wall surfaces and wall interiors, prevent mold and prevent condensation on exterior wall surfaces inside of the wall.
Reinstallation
Set the new tub in place. Make sure to follow all manufacturer recommendations related to installation of the tub. Connect the drain assembly to the new tub. Decide which type of wall covering you will use. The wall covering choice determines which underlayment application will be used (green drywall for fiberglass and vinyl, and fiberboard for tile).
Install the underlayment on the wall. Install the wall finish you have chosen. Be sure to caulk around the tub and walls, and tub and floor seams. Protect the tub surface when you are working on the walls during installation, because scratches and cracks on tub surfaces are difficult to repair. Install the new plumbing fixtures. Install a new shower curtain or shower door assembly to the new bathtub.
Tags: plumbing fixtures, wall covering, wall surfaces, walls surrounding, your bathroom
