Bathtub Replacement in Chicago

Standard timeline: Full bathtub replacement in Chicago takes 3-5 days from start to finish.

Day-by-day breakdown:

• Day 1: Remove old bathtub (cast iron tubs must be broken into pieces), disconnect plumbing, inspect subfloor for water damage
• Day 2: Repair any subfloor damage, update plumbing if needed, prepare tub alcove for new installation
• Day 3: Install new bathtub with proper mortar bed support, connect drain and overflow assembly, test for leaks
• Day 4-5: Install surround (tile requires extra drying time, acrylic panels faster), add trim, faucets, and final caulking

Faster options: Tub liners install in just 1 day (acrylic shell fits over existing tub). Reglazing takes 4-6 hours but requires 48-hour curing before use.

Longer projects: Freestanding tubs may take 4-6 days due to floor-mounted faucet installation requiring under-floor plumbing work in Chicago homes.

Replace your bathtub (don't convert) if:

• You have young children who need tub baths (kids under 6 can't safely shower alone)
• You have pets that need bathing (dogs especially need tubs for washing)
• You plan to sell your Chicago home within 5 years (buyers expect at least one tub)
• You enjoy relaxing soaks and actually use your tub regularly
• Your home only has one bathroom (keep tub for resale value)

Convert tub to shower if:

• You rarely or never use the tub (just taking quick showers)
• You have mobility issues making climbing over tub walls dangerous
• You want more spacious showering area (standard 60" tub becomes larger shower)
• Your home has another bathroom with a tub (keep at least one tub total)

Chicago recommendation: Most homes should have at least one bathtub for resale value. If you have a master bathroom with unused tub AND a hall bathroom, convert the master to shower and keep the hall tub for families with kids who may buy your home later.

Common causes of bathtub damage:

• Age-related wear: Fiberglass tubs become brittle after 10-15 years. Porcelain coating on steel/cast iron tubs wears thin after 15-20 years of use and cleaning with abrasive products.
• Impact damage: Dropped shampoo bottles, tools during renovations, or heavy items falling into tub create chips and cracks. Once porcelain chips, rust spreads underneath.
• Improper support: Acrylic and fiberglass tubs need mortar bed or foam support underneath. Without proper support, tubs flex when you stand in them—this flexing eventually causes cracks near the drain.
• Thermal stress: Hot water causes expansion; cold causes contraction. Years of temperature cycles weaken tub material, especially at drain connections where different materials meet.
• Corroded drains: Old drain gaskets and overflow connections corrode in Chicago, IL homes. Water seeps through corroded areas causing leaks under the tub and subfloor damage.

Warning signs: Any visible cracks (even hairline), rust spots that won't scrub away, water stains on ceiling below bathroom, flexing/movement when standing in tub, or musty smell near tub (indicates hidden mold from leaks). These all indicate it's time for bathtub replacement in Chicago.

Why professional installation is recommended for Chicago:

• Plumbing expertise required: Proper drain and overflow installation prevents leaks. IL plumbing codes require specific slope, venting, and gasket types. Mistakes cause water damage costing thousands to repair.
• Heavy lifting hazard: Cast iron tubs weigh 300-500 pounds. Steel tubs weigh 50-70 pounds. Even acrylic tubs (50-80 pounds) are awkward to maneuver through doorways and into tub alcoves. Professionals have equipment to safely move tubs without injuring backs or damaging walls.
• Proper leveling critical: Bathtubs must be perfectly level front-to-back and side-to-side. Uneven tubs drain poorly and stress joints causing leaks. Contractors use levels and shims to ensure proper installation.
• Support system needed: Acrylic and fiberglass tubs require mortar bed or expandable foam support underneath. DIYers often skip this step—tubs then flex under weight causing cracks within months.
• Permits and inspections: Chicago, IL requires plumbing permits for tub replacements. Inspectors check drain connections, waterproofing, and code compliance. Licensed contractors handle permits and pass inspections.

DIY possible for: Tub reglazing (refinishing) or installing tub liner over existing tub. But full tub replacement in Chicago is best left to licensed plumbers—cost of fixing DIY mistakes often exceeds hiring pros initially.