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Author:
kim2288 (NY)
I have an acrylic tub that needs to be removed in order to get some support underneath. The tub is surrounded by 12x12 tiles. Not sure how to approach removing the tiles and could use some guidance. Thanks.
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Author:
packy (MA)
when you say "get some support underneath", do you mean something like mortar or expanding foam between the tub bottom and the floor under it?
or do you mean you have to beef up the floor itself ?
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Author:
stuckinlodi (MO)
Can you post a photo of the tiles? (for how to post a photo, click the blue button above)
One way is to scratch out and remove the grout around a tile, then carefully pry it away from the wall. Start on one edge. You'll probably damage tiles and the wall will likely need some resurfacing before you install the new tiles. Can you add the reinforcement by coming up from underneath or from one side of the tub, like where the water pipes come in or thru the wall along backside of tub? It may be easier to patch a wall than removing and reinstalling tiles, unless you want to remove the tub for other reasons.
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Author:
kim2288 (NY)
Packy-
The tub was never set in a base material of any kind; only resting on the supports molded into the tub. Floor support is sufficient- 3/4" plywood.....
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Author:
kim2288 (NY)
stuckinlodi-
Thanks for the advice. Pulling the tub IS extreme and not really the direction I care to go. Very invasive. After consulting with a few folks, cutting through the back wall below the ledger board of the tub/shower (from the other side; there is a closet there) will offer a better position to get some foam underneath the full length of the tub for support. Will probably have to remove the baseboard in the process to get a sight line under the tub. It may be a better first step than pulling the entire unit.
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Author:
kim2288 (NY)
Packy-
The consensus is to get some expanding foam underneath the tub as a first defense against the flexing. (see my reply to stuckinlodi for the "plan of attack".) I've read it can be a successful solution. Fingers crossed.....
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Author:
stuckinlodi (MO)
They've got that blue dense solid foam at places like Lowe's or Home Depot, you could slide a piece (or pieces) underneath the tub to support it. Just about anything firm you can put under there will help with the tub bottom flexing.
Edited 1 times.
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Author:
steve_g (CA)
If you're going to have access, then mortar (non-expanding) might be something to consider pushing under it.
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