Is your old bathtub dingy or no longer meeting your household’s needs? Renovating a bathroom and adding a high quality bathtub can increase your home value and turn an old, outdated bathroom into a luxurious spa-like experience you want to enjoy.  If you are in the market for a new tub, one of the first questions homeowners ask is how much does it cost to replace a bathtub?

The answer to this can vary greatly depending on several factors, but generally you can expect installation costs to range from around $1500 to $7000, with an average of $4,200. When done properly, a bathtub installation will last decades, increase home value and provide a relaxing bathing experience in the comfort of your own home.

Here we will look at the factors that affect the cost to replace a bathtub, customizations to consider, and everything you need to have the best bathroom renovation experience.

What Affects the Cost of Bathtub Installation?

Tub Type: Tubs range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand and up. Certain types of tubs may require more time to install which will increase labor costs.  Tubs that include jets are also more expensive, but often worth it.

New Tile: Tile work is not expressly part of the installation process of a tub but it is often needed in certain areas. Due to the moisture in a bathroom, the drywall behind existing tile will need to be replaced eventually. During a tub renovation is a good time to pull out old time and install new drywall.

Age of Structure: Older homes, especially historical homes, did not have the same standardization for size that modern homes do. This can sometimes require you to order custom sized tubs and other fixtures along with considering the width of doorways.

New Plumbing: When possible, using existing plumbing is best when it comes to cost. However, city codes will often prevent this from being an option. Furthermore, if the plumbing isn’t adequate, you may find yourself spending more time and money having to replace it later. Plumbing fixtures like a faucet may be salvaged but this is among the least costly parts of an installation.

Customizations: Any time you can fit a standard, ready made fixture into your home, the less costly it will be. However, if you have an oddly shaped bathroom that requires a special tub design or you specifically want a unique tub size, this will add to the cost. Similarly, some older homes may have doorways that are not wide enough to accommodate certain tubs which may limit your options or even require widening a doorway in order to fit the tub you want. If a doorway does need to be widened, this can add as little as a few hundred to your costs or potentially a few thousand. Your contractor will be better able to tell you what is needed and what is possible after taking measurements.

Can You Replace a Tub on Your Own?

Removing an old tub and installing a new one is a task that some homeowners may be able to take on.  However, if you do not already have the tools and some experience, you may find any savings not worth the extra time. Consider this:

Equipment: You will require several tools and products in order to properly install and seal your tub. If you are not already an experienced DIYer you are unlikely to have all that you need on hand. The time and cost of getting these items should be considered when choosing if you install on your own.

Physical Ability: A tub can weigh in excess of 300 pounds and up to 500 pounds. A delivery service may place this for you but if you plan to pick up the tub from the store yourself, this will be another factor to consider.

Disposal of an Old Tub: Getting rid of a large, hulking bathtub is not an easy task.  Physically it is hard to move and you may not be able to get someone to pick it up. Ideally, if the tub is in decent condition, it should be donated to avoid unnecessary waste.

Plumbing: Unless you have plumbing experience, the technical aspects of installing the tub should be left to a professional.

In short, can you replace a tub on your own? Yes it is possible. However, is it a good idea for someone without experience? Not typically, no. Whatever savings you may get, you will spend in time and frustration.

How to Save Money on a Bathtub Installation

Do Your Own Tile Work: If you plan to install or replace tile, this is one area you may be able to do yourself. Watch tutorials, get the proper supplies, and plan well to ensure the job goes smoothly.

Prioritize What is Most Important: If you are doing a full bathroom remodel, consider where the tub fits in based on importance. If you like to take long soaks, your tub priority will be far different from someone who mostly takes showers. Also, consider how long you plan to stay in the home. While longevity of any remodel project is important, you may not need the absolute top of the line quality if you plan to move within a few years.

Hire a Trusted Contractor: One of the best ways to save money on a bathtub installation or bathroom remodel is to ensure it gets done right the first time. Hiring an experienced contractor who understands what materials and tub types will work best for your bathroom is the top way to accomplish this.

Getting Started with Your Professional Bathtub Installation

Getting started is easy when you hire professional, experienced remodelers and bathtub installers.  This helps you avoid the pitfalls of potentially mismeasuring dimensions, ordering the wrong equipment, or facing unforeseen plumbing issues.

At Toronto’s Bathroom Renovation, our experienced bathroom renovators have performed hundreds of bathtub installations. We use our expertise to ensure you get the best installation and remodeling experience with transparent pricing and friendly service. Contact us at (647) 834-8346 to request an estimate.