Yes, it is possible to turn a claw foot tub into a shower. The process involves cutting a hole in the tub so that a showerhead and control valve can be fitted. Once the holes are cut, the new shower components are placed and connected to a hot and cold water supply.
Depending on the existing fixture, you might need to refit the faucet outlet. Some plumbing piping may also need to be routed to add a drain and also some insulation. All of this needs to be done carefully and correctly in order to create a functional shower setup.
Additionally, you may need to add a showerhead and handle, some new tile to the surround, and maybe even a new acrylic shower wall or curbed enclosure to complete the new shower space. If you’re uncomfortable tackling the project yourself, you can always contact a professional plumber to help turn your claw foot tub into a shower.
How much does it cost to replace a clawfoot tub with a shower?
Replacing a clawfoot tub with a shower typically costs between $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the amount of work required, materials needed, and the type of shower you’re installing. Labor costs usually range from $1,000 to $6,000, while supplies and materials can cost anywhere from $500 to $4,000.
The type of shower you choose often impacts the cost as well, with pre-made showers costing less than custom designs. In addition to the cost of the shower, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of tearing out the existing tub and putting in a new drain system.
You may also need to purchase new tiling or shower surrounds and make adjustments to the plumbing and electrical systems. Talk to your local contractor for an accurate estimate of the cost to replace your clawfoot tub.
What do you do with old claw foot tubs?
It could be turned into a unique planter for a small garden, an outdoor incubator for chicks and ducklings, an elevated pet bed, a durable bathtub for a small child, a stylish piece of furniture for an office or living room, an extra seating area for an outdoor patio, a decorative water fountain, or a large container for pond plants.
Additionally, old claw foot tubs can even be given a new life as stylish bathtubs if they’re given a thorough cleaning and repurposed with modern plumbing fixtures.
Do clawfoot tubs increase home value?
Yes, clawfoot tubs can increase the home value. Clawfoot tubs have become a symbol of luxury and grandeur and can give a traditionally styled bathroom an updated, yet classic look. A clawfoot tub, however, is only one element of remodeling a bathroom, and should be part of a larger remodeling plan that includes other factors like countertops, tiles, fixtures and more.
A clawfoot tub can provide a unique aesthetic, and when paired with other elements that enhance the look, will likely add value to the home. Additionally, the tub’s porcelain material is more durable than other bathroom fixtures, and can help the home maintain value for a longer period of time.
Finally, a clawfoot tub adds a character and charm to a bathroom that can be appealing to some potential buyers and help it stand out in a competitive home-selling market.
Why did clawfoot tubs go out of style?
Clawfoot tubs were popular fixtures in many bathrooms from the 1870s through the 1930s and were seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury during this period due to their high cost. However, with the invention of acrylic and enamel-coated steel tubs in the 1940s, the market for clawfoot tubs rapidly declined.
This new method of manufacturing tubs was much cheaper and allowed for the mass production of tubs, making them more accessible to a wider variety of customers. Additionally, the sleek, modern designs of the newer tubs made them more appealing to homeowners and builders than the outdated and often bulky clawfoot variety.
The emergence of shower stalls and the increasingly common combination of tub and shower units in the 1950s further corroded the market for clawfoot tubs, as both of these options were far more space-efficient than a separate bathtub and took up much less area in bathrooms, which were often quite limited in square footage.
Today, clawfoot tubs are mainly used for vintage and eclectic decor and are rarely installed in new bathrooms, as most homeowners and builders opt for more modern and space-efficient designs.
Why do people love clawfoot tubs?
People love clawfoot tubs for many reasons. The classic, traditional look of this type of bathtub adds a sophisticated, timeless charm to any bathroom and is a beautiful focal point. Clawfoot tubs also offer an extraordinary level of comfort and convenience.
The slight sloping of the interior rim makes it easier to step in and out of the tub, and the gentle curves create the perfect place to relax and unwind during a warm bubble bath.
Additionally, clawfoot tubs are incredibly robust and built to last. These tubs are remarkably durable and resistant to everyday wear and tear as well as harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, clawfoot tubs are also incredibly versatile and can tastefully fit with both modern and classic décor.
Finally, clawfoot tubs are generally easier to install than other types of tubs and they offer relatively hassle-free maintenance. All these factors make them an incredibly popular choice among homeowners and a classic investment piece that can be enjoyed for many years to come.
What is the value of a clawfoot tub?
The value of a clawfoot tub can vary greatly and is largely determined by factors such as condition, age, and whether it has been restored or not. For a clawfoot tub in good condition, the estimated value tends to vary between $800 and $1400 depending on the size, style, and material.
Fully restored tubs with fixtures can be worth up to $2500. If the clawfoot tub is in poor condition and requires much restoration work, then it could be worth much less than $800. It is important to note that the value of a clawfoot tub is also determined by its rarity and demand.
Older, rare clawfoot tubs can be worth as much as $3000 for good antique examples, while some unique styles of tubs can exceed that greatly. Additionally, it may be wise to consider the cost of restoring a clawfoot tub for its proper valuation, as the cost of proper restoration can exceed the amount that a buyer would pay for the tub.
How do you make homemade claw grabbers?
Making homemade claw grabbers is a relatively easy process requiring a few household items. You will need a cardboard box, scissors, tape, scissors, string, cardboard tube or a dowel, craft glue, two cups and four screws.
To start, cut two small holes in the side of the cardboard box, one on each side. Next, cut a hole in the top of the cardboard box large enough to slip the tube or dowel into it. Cut a hole in the bottom of the cardboard box large enough for the two cups to fit into.
Place the cups in the box and then secure them to the box with the four screws. Cut the string to the desired length and string it through the cardboard tube or dowel, then tie a knot at the end. Secure the tube or dowel to the box with craft glue and allow to dry.
Once the glue is dry, you can use the homemade claw grabber.
What kind of shower curtain do you use for a clawfoot tub?
For a clawfoot tub, you should look for a shower curtain that is specifically designed to fit and be used with clawfoot baths. A standard shower curtain won’t provide the right fit and may not be able to properly cover the entire tub, leaving a gap where water can escape.
Look for a clawfoot tub shower curtain, which will typically feature corner curved hems and grommets that are specifically designed to securely fit around and over the tub’s edge. The shower curtain should be long enough to easily go around the entire edge of the tub.
The material of the shower curtain should also be taken into consideration; heavy-duty cloth and vinyl are great options that are easy to clean, while cotton is also a popular choice because of its durability.
How do claw baths drain?
Claw baths are typically designed with the traditional plumbing setup, which usually consists of a main drain connected to a series of pipes that run through the walls and floor of the bathroom, along with a separate set of pipes for the faucets and any other features.
The main drain of a claw bath is positioned in the center of the floor and is connected to the above mentioned pipes by means of a drain fitting. The drain fitting is connected to a standard 1. 5-inch stub-out and is sealed with a rubber or plastic gasket to prevent leaks.
The water drains out of the tub by driving down through the pipe system, with the plunger of the drain lever causing a seal between the drain fitting and the stub-out, allowing the water to flow freely past it.
In some cases, there might also be an overflow drain built into the bath which is connected to a separate pipe and is designed to prevent water from spilling out of the tub when it is filled too high.
How do you attach a hand held shower to a tub fixture?
Attaching a hand held shower to a tub fixture requires following a few basic steps.
First, using a pipe wrench, unscrew the existing shower head from the shower arm, which is the metal pipe connected to the wall. Once the shower head has been removed, attach the nipple of the new hand held shower to the shower arm.
Special care should be taken to ensure that a plumber’s tape is wrapped around the threads of the shower arm, so that a tight water-proof seal is achieved.
Using pipe pliers, wrap Teflon tape around the shower arm threads. This will help make sure that the hand held shower head is connected securely and that it won’t come loose when water is running through it.
Once the hand held shower is secured, use the washers and screws provided to complete the securing process. Place all the hardware in the right places and make sure that everything is tightened securely.
Once complete, the hand held shower is securely attached to the tub fixture and ready to use. With a few simple steps, anyone can attach a hand held shower to a tub fixture without much difficulty.
Are clawfoot tubs still in style?
Yes, clawfoot tubs are still very much in style. They give off a classic, timeless look and are popular for vintage-style or farmhouse-style bathroom designs. They come in a variety of materials like acrylic, cast iron, and copper, making them easy to match with any existing decor.
Many modern clawfoot tubs come with convenient features like slip-resistant surfaces and adjustable-height legs. They may cost more than a traditional tub, but they are worth the investment as they are sure to last you for many years to come.
What bathtubs are trending?
Bathtubs are an increasingly popular home feature, and the range of options available has expanded significantly to include various styles and trends. Some of the latest bathtub trends include freestanding bathtubs, which often come in an array of sizes and shapes, walk-in bathtubs for those who have difficulty getting in and out of traditional tubs, and soaking tubs which are designed to provide a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
For those seeking a traditional look, clawfoot tubs remain popular, while more modern bathrooms favor acrylic tubs, which are lightweight and easy to clean. In addition, jacuzzi-style tubs are becoming increasingly popular, with many newer models boasting built-in water jets and air bubble massage systems.
Finally, there has been an increase in the popularity of copper and stainless steel tubs, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also incredibly durable and easy to maintain.
Why do new homes not have bathtubs?
There are a variety of different reasons why new homes may not come with traditional bathtubs. Firstly, some people prefer showers to baths and so builders opt for including showers in their homes instead of a bathtub.
This could also be down to space as bathtubs can take up extra space in a bathroom compared to a shower, which may be more practical for modern living spaces. Additionally, bathtubs can be expensive for a builder or homeowner to install, so there may be a cost factor involved as well.
Lastly, bathtubs may not be seen as necessary in many homes if there is another suitable option such as a shower, as baths are not always used as often as showers. All of these factors can contribute to why new homes may not have a bathtub included.
Are bathtubs becoming obsolete?
No, bathtubs are not becoming obsolete. While it is true that more and more people are turning to showers for their main bathing option, there are still plenty of people who prefer a relaxing bath. Baths are especially common in luxury and high-end homes, where homeowners enjoy the relaxing soaking option that baths provide.
Some people, especially those with limited space, will also opt for a combo shower and bathtub unit, so that they can have both options in one. Moreover, advances in materials and technology are making bathtubs both stylish and functional.
For example, freestanding bathtubs have become popular for their unique designs, and many manufacturers are now making bathtubs out of recycled plastic and other sustainable materials. Overall, while baths may not be as commonplace as they once were, they are still a popular choice for many homeowners.