An important question when hiring a professional is which to hire. When it comes to bathtub installation, both handymen and plumbers can accomplish the same task, but which is right for you? In general, you want to hire a plumber to install and replace your bathtub.
You shouldn't need a plumber for this unless the water line needs to be replaced. Most general contractors should be able to do this project no problem.
Fitting a bath might sound like a big job, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, it's a DIY task you can take on yourself.
Permits and Labor
You may need to hire professional installers for your tub project. Labor charges could range between $100 and $2,000 for new bathtub installation, depending on your project. You'll need to hire a licensed plumber to alter the existing pipes.
Replacing your bathtub is a big project. Whether it's for aesthetic reasons or functionality, bathtub replacement should be a carefully planned project.
When it comes to bathtub installation, both handymen and plumbers can accomplish the same task, but which is right for you? In general, you want to hire a plumber to install and replace your bathtub. Plumbers are required to apprentice for at least 2-4 years before being licensed.
The cost to fit a bath runs a national average of $5,000 for materials and installation. The typical price ranges from $3,000 to $7,500, depending upon the type of material you choose and the size of the bathtub.
On average, a professional can typically complete a bathtub replacement in one to two days. However, it can take longer if the project requires additional work such as modifying the plumbing or making repairs to the surrounding walls.
Once your tub is installed, you must pipe in your water valve and supply piping. From there, connect the bathwaste and overflow system to the sanitary system by connecting the piping to the P-trap. This process will vary depending on whether the pipes are in the floor joists or in the wall.
Replacing an old bath with a new one is relatively straightforward as long as the water supply and pipes require minimal alterations. For baths with panels, flooring adjustments are usually unnecessary. However, for freestanding baths, install the flooring before fitting the bath to achieve a polished look.
The time required for a bathtub installation depends on various factors. The skills and experience of the person installing it to the time taken for the removal of an old bathtub determine the installation time. Generally, it should not take more than 3-5 hours. But in case of unforeseen complications, it may increase.
Spray foam under a bathtub boosts energy efficiency and supports the tub. It also prevents water damage.
Rough plumbing involves installing all of the water lines, sewer lines and bathtubs. Tubs are normally installed early because: One-piece shower-and-tub units are big and often cannot be maneuvered into place later in the construction cycle.
While it's possible to plumb an entire bathroom yourself, at least part of this job really should be left to the pros. Rough-in bathroom plumbing is not easy DIY work. If you don't properly install the water lines or drainpipes, you could end up with a leak inside your walls, resulting in significant damage.
If you're replacing your bathroom, then you'll likely need both a bathroom fitter and a plumber. Plumbers take care of the overall plumbing system, so they'll need to manage any plumbing pipework requirements and connections, whereas your bathroom fitter will focus on the bathroom installation itself.
They have the skills and experience to install bathtubs correctly and safely and will know of any necessary permit requirements. Tools: Plumbers have specialized tools to complete a bathtub installation. General contractors might have tools that will do the job.
Since toilets and baths don't use the same water type, most people want a separate drain for each fixture. However, they can share the same drain if you set up a common vent and connect their existing drains with PVC connectors.
Plumbers will indeed install a new faucet in your bathroom. In fact, if the plumber was already at your house dealing with a leaky faucet, they may be able to do that replacement the same day.
Premium quality acrylic tubs and walls are custom made to ensure a perfect watertight fit. They're installed right over your existing bath and wall in as little as one day.
We recommend putting the drain assembly together first before securing your tub to the studs. This makes the installation easier…and lessens the likelihood of you tearing out your hair (just keeping it real).
Negotiating with Bath Fitter or independent contractors can lead to potential cost savings or additional benefits like discounted materials or waived fees, as they may be willing to accommodate your budget or offer incentives to secure your business.
Adding a bathroom costs homeowners an average of $37,000–$74,000. See which factors will impact your total cost. Mark Howey is a licensed California building contractor with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry.