How To Enclose A Clawfoot Tub Step By Step Process

You may be researching on how to enclose a clawfoot tub. Say your friend’s new place has a bathtub, your envy is justified. It’s a dream to own a bathtub to soak in while listening to your favorite music on Bluetooth. It’s an under-budget spa experience without breaking the bank.

Clawfoot tubs are not only expensive, but they also cost one-fifth of their cost to install, as you will learn upon continuing to read. Hiring a professional to install the tub is a separate cost. You must also measure the space in your bathroom before deciding to buy a clawfoot tub.

How To Enclose A Clawfoot Tub – Step by step process

First of all, grab a hammer with a cold chisel to remove the face of the tub. You must remove all the tiles that may come in contact with the tub. You must also remove the base trim and cement board. Scratch away the cement and use your hands to remove cement where possible.

Now it’s time to remove one of the 2 x 4 braces that give access to the drain’s fitting. Loosen the drain to the tub and use the Allen wrench to fasten the tub in place.

Using the crowbar to lift the tub, insert a 2 x 4 underneath to raise the tub away from the floor. Slide the fingers underneath the tub and remove the remaining tiles underneath the cement board. Now remove the tub handles using an Allen wrench to loosen them.

Remove the escutcheon plates.

Now use the hammer and chisel to carefully work the back wall regarding the tiles on the top of the tub frame.

Cut through the frame using a reciprocating saw. Remove the cement board as well as the screws that are holding the plywood base together.

Cut a section surrounding the plumbing pipes so you can enclose the tub properly.

Things you need:

• Hacksaw,
• Pry bar,
• PVC saw,
• Sponge,
• Utility knife,
• Rubber grout float,
• Hole saw, drill,
• Dust mask,
• and framing ruler,
• among safety equipment to enclose the tub.

The installation cost can range from $900 to $5,800.

How to Add a Shower to a Claw-Foot Tub

In the below YouTube Video you will learn how to install a new spout, riser, and showerhead that are all part of a kit to convert a claw-foot bathtub into a shower. Additionally, a shower curtain ring is included in the box.

The tub faucet was replaced after removing the old one, using plumber’s putty to create a watertight seal. Then use Teflon tape to secure the threaded connections on the riser for the showerhead. Place the riser and showerhead on the tub and then use the kit-supplied to brace and fasten the riser to the wall.

Then trim the shower curtain ring down with a tubing cutter so that it would fit underneath the sloped ceiling directly above the tub before mounting it.

For more information on the best shower curtain for a clawfoot tub then check out this article I wrote: Best Shower Curtain for Clawfoot Tub

Frequently asked questions (FAQ’S)

How heavy is a cast iron clawfoot tub?

These tubs are heavy as they are made from acrylic with a porcelain finish. The tubs can weigh between 200 to 400 pounds.

How much room do you need around a clawfoot tub?

The clawfoot tub is moderately sized. You need to make sure that the tub will fit through doors, stairwells, and halls. You also need to leave three to six feet inches from each side of the tub.

What can I put under my clawfoot tub feet?

You can place a small leather circle under the tub feet.

How do you stop a clawfoot tub from moving?

• Place the acrylic tub where you wish to install it.
• File the higher metal feet by turning over the tub.
• Now thread the places onto every screw.
• Now place the tub in place with the help of a pencil mark marking the location on the floor against the fixing plate of the tub.

Are clawfoot tubs dangerous?

Clawfoot tubs may provide long relaxing soaks, but they can be dangerous as well. They are difficult to install, and climbing in and out of the tub can be dangerous. Clawfoot tubs are also big, so they might cover a lot of surface area in your bathroom.

Can you move a clawfoot tub?

You can move the clawfoot tub in three ways.

• The hardest way is to roll the rub on the side of a furniture dolly. Have your friends support the tub on its side as you navigate it through the pre-planned route inside the house.
• You can use straps to carry the rub. This may begin by loading the tub onto a ramp and move it in between stories of the house. This way, you can move the tub by itself.
• The easy way is to call a professional who knows the tricks and tips to do it right without causing any damage to the furniture. They will wrap the tub and move it safely using the proper tools.

How much do old cast iron tubs weigh?

Considering the tub’s size, an old iron cast tub can weigh between 350 to 500 pounds.

What can I do with an old cast iron tub?

• You can turn the tub into a little garden by strategically placing pots and flowers for an aesthetically pleasing view.
• You can transform it into a sitting arrangement by cutting out a section, placing cushions on it, and spray painting the legs.
• Let a good look book inspire you to turn it into a chaise lounge. You can have a cup of tea and enjoy a good read by stretching out your legs.
• You can transform the tub into a half coffee table and a half planter. This will be the ideal décor for a patio or a French terrace. Place the tub where you want it, cover it with soil and plant dubs, and place a wooden slab on the other half of it to place tiny, vintage decorations.

Can you put a cast iron tub upstairs?

Ask a professional to calculate the bearing of the floor. Clawfoot tubs can usually withstand the weight of the floor, the tub filled with water, and the person inside it. However, a professional opinion is strongly advised.

How much does a clawfoot tub weigh?

• A tub will weigh anywhere from 500 pounds to 1000 pounds.
• It depends on the size of the tub and how well it is insulated.

Can you put a clawfoot tub on ceramic tile?

• Yes, but it depends on the thickness of the tile. It can be done with 3/8″ or 1/2″ thick tiles.

Conclusion

We all want a bathtub in our bathrooms. It’s not only aesthetically pleasing, and a means to relax after a long working day. However, the tubs also cost an arm and a leg, so choose wisely. And when it comes to how to enclose a clawfoot tub, hire a professional.

How To Enclose A Clawfoot Tub, Steps By Steps Process