The cost of replacing a bathtub includes:
- The new bathtub.
- Installation costs.
- Plumbing changes.
- Labor.
- Disposal of the old tub.
The price varies widely based on:
- The bathtub material.
- Design.
- Local labor rates.
This overview outlines the main costs involved in bathtub replacement, including:
- The range of available tubs.
- Labor costs.
- Additional potential expenses.
Bathtub Replacement Costs
Bathtub replacement costs vary due to several factors. These include removal of the old tub, the cost of the new tub, plumbing changes, and labor. The cost is not just the new tub's price; it also involves the labor, which can be expensive if the old tub is heavy, like those made of cast iron, leading to higher disposal costs.
Labor costs are a significant part of the total expense. They depend on the job's complexity, bathtub type, and local labor rates. Simple replacements are cheaper, while installing a luxury tub with complicated plumbing is more expensive.
On average, replacing a bathtub costs between $1,390 and $10,734. This can vary greatly based on the project. Extra costs for subfloor repair or surface preparation can add $300 to $800. New faucets or fixtures may also increase the cost.
Prices vary widely, with the national average at about $5,660. However, the total cost can range from $750 to $20,000, depending on the project's specifics and selected options.
Removal and Disposal Fees
Removal and disposal fees are part of the bathtub replacement process and usually cost between $150 to $4,300. This price includes dismantling the old bathtub and disposing of the materials legally, following local regulations. Disconnecting the bathtub from existing plumbing can be complex if there's water damage or old plumbing. Labor costs for bathtub removal may vary based on the tub's size, location, and material, with average prices ranging from $50 to $100.
Disposal costs are separate since construction waste cannot be left for regular trash collection. For example, disposing of a cast iron tub might cost over $300 because of its weight and the need for special handling. Overall disposal fees can range from $100 to $4,200, depending on the material of the tub and local waste disposal rules.
Contractors may include these fees with the installation cost or list them separately. Homeowners should plan for these expenses to prevent surprise charges. It's important to factor in these costs when purchasing a new bathtub to ensure proper installation and to avoid fines from incorrect waste disposal.
Choosing Your Bathtub
When choosing a bathtub, consider the style, material, and functionality as these affect the cost of replacement. Fiberglass tubs are affordable, starting at $200, and are lightweight and easy to install. Cast iron tubs are more expensive but offer durability and a classic look; they require more labor for installation due to their weight.
Acrylic tubs are resilient and come in many shapes and sizes, providing a middle ground in terms of cost and quality. Freestanding tubs, such as clawfoot tubs, add a unique element to a bathroom but are pricier, with costs increasing for complex designs or materials.
Soaking tubs, which are deeper for full-body immersion, and jetted tubs with massaging jets, offer therapeutic benefits and vary in price from moderate to high-end based on features and construction.
At the high end of the market, granite, marble, and cultured marble tubs cost between $10,000 and $20,000. These materials add luxury but also increase replacement costs due to their weight and the specialized installation required.
Choose a bathtub that fits your personal taste and budget.
Installation Materials and Labor
Materials usually make up about 86.4% of the total cost for installing a bathtub, while labor accounts for the other 13.6%. Homeowners need to think about the cost of the bathtub, as well as additional materials like a surround, which can be made of tile, stone, or similar materials, for a complete and functional installation.
Labor costs for removing and replacing a bathtub can vary greatly. The amount of work needed for plumbing adjustments can affect labor time and costs. If electrical work is required, such as with a whirlpool tub installation, it will increase labor costs. Installations must adhere to local building codes, which may include permit fees that add to the overall cost.
Preparing the surface for a new bathtub also impacts costs. This involves removing the old tub, fixing any wall or floor damage, and setting up for the new tub, which might need more materials and expertise.
To keep costs down, homeowners should try to keep the existing bathroom layout to avoid moving plumbing. However, costs will be higher for more extensive renovations that require more complex labor and materials. Understanding both material and labor costs is important for accurately budgeting a bathtub replacement project.
Additional Considerations
When replacing your bathtub, consider the potential for extra costs due to unforeseen repairs, aesthetic enhancements, and accessory installations. These can significantly impact the total cost. If the new bathtub requires changes to the plumbing lines or if it's heavier than the old one, you may need to account for the expense of modifying plumbing or reinforcing the floor.
Also, check if your home's electrical panel can support any advanced features of the new bathtub, such as jets that require additional power. For safety, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) must be installed, possibly by an electrician if one isn't present.
Attempting to install a bathtub yourself may appear to save money, but it involves understanding complex plumbing and building codes. Incorrect installation can result in expensive damage. Hiring a professional contractor could avoid these risks and ensure proper installation.
Consider the costs of aesthetic choices like tiles or custom fixtures. Plan and budget for these to prevent financial surprises.
Account for these factors when budgeting for your bathroom renovation to facilitate a smoother process.
Types of Bathtubs Explained
There are several types of bathtubs, each with distinct features and costs.
Alcove tubs are space-efficient and typically made from affordable materials like acrylic and fiberglass, making them a budget-friendly choice for small bathrooms.
Fiberglass bathtubs are lightweight and easy to install but may not be as durable as other materials.
Acrylic bathtubs come in various shapes and retain heat well for a comfortable bathing experience.
Freestanding tubs are luxury items that do not require wall support and can serve as a focal point in a bathroom. However, they are more expensive, with an average cost of about $2,500.
Air baths and whirlpool tubs offer a massage-like experience with built-in jets, but they are more complex and costly.
Walk-in tubs are designed for easy access and safety for those with mobility issues, but they are pricier, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000.
Solid surface bathtubs provide a high-end look and durability but are among the most expensive options on the market.
DIY Vs. Professional Installation
Choosing between DIY and professional bathtub installation requires evaluating one's skills and the project's complexity. DIY installation may save on labor costs but demands knowledge of plumbing, carpentry, and tiling.
Professional installation guarantees accuracy and compliance with building codes. Experts can prevent leaks and structural issues, reducing the risk of mistakes. Professional installation costs between $500 to $2,000 and usually takes six to nine hours.
Deciding whether to DIY or hire professionals involves considering the work scope, the value of time, tool costs, potential errors, and the benefits of a workmanship warranty.
The cost to replace a bathtub will vary based on the approach. One should compare the immediate savings of DIY with the long-term advantages of professional installation.
Saving Money on Your Project
When choosing between DIY or professional installation for a bathtub replacement, homeowners can save money by not changing the existing bathroom layout. Keeping water supply lines and drainpipes in place can save up to $1,900, as moving them often incurs additional costs.
Selecting a standard acrylic bathtub is an economical choice. These tubs are less costly, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, and do not necessarily compromise on quality or design.
Installing a prefabricated surround instead of custom tile work can also reduce expenses by up to $1,000. It's typically simpler to install, possibly lowering labor costs if using professional help. Homeowners can further cut costs by managing parts of the project themselves, such as buying and transporting the bathtub.
It's important to hire licensed professionals for electrical and plumbing work to meet local codes and ensure safety, which can prevent expensive mistakes and rework. When removing the old tub and installing the new one, getting multiple quotes ensures a reasonable price is paid for these services.
Careful planning and strategic choices can lead to substantial savings on bathroom upgrades.
