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Project Introduction and Assessment — Demolition: Removing the Old Tub and Shower

Intermediate12 hours

Part of project

Install a Tub & Shower Combo: Faucet Replacement Guide · Step 1 of 4

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In this video

The host introduces the project of removing a one-piece fiberglass tub and shower unit. He explains that since it was installed during construction, it's too large to fit through the door and must be cut apart. He advises assessing the area and checking behind the walls for any plumbing or electrical lines before beginning the demolition.

Goal: Bathtub Removal

  • Investigate the walls surrounding the tub to identify any plumbing, electrical, or other utilities to avoid damaging them during demolition.
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FAQs

How accurate is the 12-hour estimated time, and what factors could significantly extend this project for a DIYer?

The 12-hour estimate is for an intermediate DIYer in ideal conditions. Unexpected issues like significant wall damage, corroded old plumbing, or difficult-to-remove fixtures can easily double the project time. Always allocate extra time for unforeseen challenges, especially during demolition.

What is the absolute first safety step, and what should I do if I can't turn off the main water supply?

Always turn off your home's main water supply before starting any demolition or disconnection. If you cannot locate or operate your main shut-off valve, contact a professional plumber immediately. Proceeding without cutting the water can cause severe flooding and significant property damage.

Beyond the basic hand tools, what specialized tools or materials are crucial for ensuring a leak-free faucet installation with PEX or CPVC?

For PEX, a dedicated PEX crimp tool and appropriate crimp rings are essential for secure connections. If using CPVC, you'll need CPVC primer and solvent cement. Always use plumber's tape or thread sealant on all threaded connections and plumber's putty for the tub drain assembly to prevent leaks.

What is the most common mistake DIYers make that leads to leaks after installation, and how can I avoid it?

The most common mistake is failing to properly seal connections or not adequately tightening fittings. Ensure all PEX/CPVC connections are correctly crimped or glued, and all threaded connections are wrapped with Teflon tape and firmly tightened. During the leak test, turn water on slowly and meticulously inspect every joint for drips.

Transcript
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Thank you for watching you can do it. I'm Chris and in this episode we're continuing our remodel here But we're doing the demo and we're going to be removing this shower this tub shower here It's a fiberglass shower and it was installed when the house was being built These walls were out here when they brought this in there's no way they could have got this in With the walls the way they are we got a 24 inch door. This is not fitting through it So we're going to safely remove this. It isn't a very easy You know dismantling and cutting this apart so we're going to show you step by step so you don't damage things in the other wall So behind this wall we have another bathroom So you want to kind of investigate and see what you've got on the other side. Is it a bedroom? Is it a bathroom? So we have another bathroom on the other side. There's a sink on the other side. There's a toilet We've got plumbing in the wall. We've got electrical. So these are things you want to investigate before you dive into something like this And we're going to show you step by step how to carefully remove this

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