What can I do with an old cast iron tub?

Author: Madilyn Torphy  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Cast iron tubs are used for more than just bath time. Clawfoot tubs can be repurposed into planters, couches, chairs and more with a little bit of creativity. Browse an idea board, like Pinterest, to choose a project that speaks to you. "You can create an outdoor flower bed or raised garden.

Are old cast iron tubs worth any money?

For example, clawfoot and cast iron tubs are great sources of scrap metal and companies will potentially pay you more for your bathtub depending on the materials you have on hand.

Is a cast iron tub worth scrapping?

If you have a cast iron sink or tub, it may very well be worth scrapping, especially if you can't find some way of selling it to someone else. While you can find ways to repurpose a cast iron sink or tub, you may also need to get rid of it from your home.

Is it worth saving a cast iron tub?

A cast iron tub full of body-temperature water will stay comfortably warm for a lot longer than an acrylic or fibreglass one. The other benefit of cast iron is its longevity. Provided it's not abused or damaged, a cast iron tub should last several decades or more.

Are cast iron baths valuable?

If looked after, the average cast iron tub will last 70 years. Although the initial cost is more expensive due to the price comparison of materials between cast iron and acrylic, these investments save money in the long run as it is likely to be a tub that will never need replacing in your lifetime if cared for.

Restore a claw foot tub, it was refinish before?

Can you get money for a cast iron tub?

Scrap the tub at a local facility and get paid for the value of the metal. Just keep in mind that you will have to haul the tub to the facility, which can be tiresome and time-consuming, especially if you removed your cast iron tub in one piece.

How much is cast iron worth in scrap?

Steel & Iron

Cast Iron – $0.02-0.35 per lb. Whole Cars – $0.02-0.03 per lb. Motorcycles – $0.03-0.45 per lb.

Do people buy cast iron tubs?

Acrylic and cast iron are two of the most popular bathtub materials for home renovators — and for good reason. Both have durable qualities that are designed to last and look new after long-term use.

What is the life expectancy of a cast iron tub?

Lifespan

Meanwhile, cast iron tubs can last up to 70 years.

Where can I sell my cast iron tub?

SELLING A CLAWFOOT TUB
  • Local antique dealers.
  • Scrap yards.
  • Newspaper or Magazine Classifieds.
  • eBay.
  • Craigslist.
  • Facebook Marketplace.

Where to get rid of a cast iron tub?

Rent a Dumpster to Properly Dispose of Your Cast Iron Tub

If you're eager to quickly get rid of your tub and can't wait for regular curbside collection, renting a dumpster offers a convenient solution to dispose of it and all the bathroom debris in a single go.

Do scrap metal collectors take cast iron?

Scrap metals we accept for recycling

All grades of iron are accepted, including rolled steel joists, heavy iron, and light iron; shredded and purified for reuse. Commonly found in containers and appliances, as well as industrial machinery, we'll take all grades of cast iron.

How to dispose of a cast iron bath?

When sinks, toilets and baths are cracked, badly chipped and cannot be re-purposed or re-sold they can be disposed of at Recycling Centres.

Is there a market for old cast iron?

Lots containing vintage cast iron can often be found at estate or antique auctions. Large cast iron collections are often sold at auction, either by the owner's heirs or by a collector who has decided to "cash out".

Who takes old bathtubs?

Need Help with Junk Removal in the Bay Area, CA? Nixxit Junk Removal can help with your junk removal needs in the Bay Area. Same Day Appointments Available!

Do old cast iron tubs contain lead?

Cast iron and steel tubs as well as bathroom and kitchen sinks could be leaching lead. Another 40 percent of the tubs with lead were also estimated to have lead dust.

How much does a 5 ft cast iron tub weigh?

Weight. Cast iron tubs can weigh between 300 and 500 pounds, whereas enameled steel tubs tend to be around 150 to 200 pounds. In comparison, standard acrylic tubs weigh about 50 to 100 pounds. That's why these metal tubs require extra floor support and may end up costing more overall.

Is it worth reglazing a cast iron tub?

The cast iron tub refinishing procedure also known as cast iron tub reglazing, not only is a viable alternative to replacement when the tub is old, stained, damaged, or simply doesn't look good anymore but has become the number one choice for contractors nowadays when they are hired by a homeowner to remodel a bathroom ...

Is cast iron worth any money?

The long lifespan of cast iron along with the growing demand for second-hand instead of new makes vintage cast iron a common find in the antique market. The value of antique cast iron skillets can start at similar to new prices, but a super rare Wagner or Griswold can fetch up to $1,500 apiece.

Should I replace my old cast iron bathtub?

While cast iron tubs will show some signs of rusting, they won't typically rust through completely and therefore necessitate replacement. However, sheet metal bathtubs that have rusted through around the drain are ticking time bombs and its only a matter of time before they fail completely.

Can you get money from cast iron?

Cast iron is totally recyclable. Since iron is the main component of steel, you should refrain from throwing it away. Your used cast iron appliances can be melted down and crafted into something brand new, and you can even get money for it!

Does cast iron have salvage value?

Cast Iron Scrap Price as of 4/14/2021: $0.42/lb.

Previous article
What does toilet blue do?
Next article
How often do you water a spider plant?