If so, what tool would I use (circular saw, reciprocating saw) and what type of blade?
Alternatively, can I take a sledgehammer to it and break it into smaller pieces? WIll it break or just bend?
2007-03-08 00:50:18 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
My tub is enamel on steel.
2007-03-08 05:51:52 · update #1
Yes, depending on the type of tub. If it is a cast iron tub then you can take a sledge hammer to it and break it up into pieces. If it is steel, it won't break into pieces but will simply bend. If it is steel, I would recommend taking a SawZall to it. You will need a hacksaw type blade for cutting steel.
You may also be able to use a handheld grinder with a metal cutting blade. Go to any place like Lowe's or Home Depot and they can show you. At Lowe's you should be able to rent a tool to cut the tub in half for a couple bucks. The could also show you exactly what tool you need. Just make sure that when you are breaking it up or cutting it up that you wear protective glasses and it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to wear an old long sleeve shirt or jacket so the hot metal pieces coming off the cutting blade don't burn you a little.
If it is an old cast iron claw foot tub, then I'd recommend checking around to see if there are any places around your area that buy or collect old bathtubs, lighting fixtures, railing, etc for house restoration projects. They might pay you a descent amount for an old claw foot cast iron tub.
And like the one person mentioned, if you are cutting it, it is probably a good idea to wear a dust mask also.
2007-03-08 01:07:25 · answer #1 · answered by devilishblueyes 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Your old tub is probably cast iron. And it will break with a sledge hammer. Make sure you wear safety goggles, etc. A reciprocating saw with a metal blade will cut it but it will take along time.
Some tubs might be worth saving, not a 1960's plain tub. A claw foot tub from the 1930's or 40's may have a market.
2007-03-08 05:49:34 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've broken these up before. You can hit it with a sledge hammer, and it will break up. I've never used a sawzall but since it is made of iron you should have no problem getting through it. Make sure you have a couple of heavy duty metal blades or you will be there a long time. If the tub is a stand alone tub (not built into the wall) i would try to get it out in one piece and sell it, there are people who love these things.
2007-03-09 23:09:38 · answer #3 · answered by zoso63 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd use the sawZall which is a brand name for a reciprocating saw, with a metal cutting blade. There are some people, that will cut the tub in half and then stand it on end and bury it into their yard a few inches deep and then they put a statue of the virgin mary inside it and make a shrine with plantings. Personally, I think it looks tacky, but it does save them from havng to haul it off. It's their yard and they can do what they want. They have good intentions though.
2007-03-08 02:34:50 · answer #4 · answered by Fordman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Removing Cast Iron Tub
2016-12-12 04:56:26 · answer #5 · answered by karle 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometimes breaking it up is the only way to remove it so that is not uncommon.
If it is cast iron you might be able to smash it. Wear protective gear and cover the walls and floor because it could split into sharp fragments.
The easiest way is a reciprocating saw with a hacksaw blade. Make sure that the blade is the thicker, more robust, kind called a "Demolition blade." Regular blades are skinny and tend to jam and bend when used for a task like that. Demo blades are tough and can go through anything. Again use protective clothing and eyewear and cover the walls and floor.
2007-03-08 03:30:13 · answer #6 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Steel Bathtub
2016-10-04 11:40:59 · answer #7 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
an old enamel tub can be cut into half by using a "SAWZALL" you can not take a sledgehammer to it cause it will just bend. There are people out there who buy the old tubs and will come in and remove it for you free of charge.
2007-03-08 00:55:30 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
you can use a reciprocating saw but its always a worry of how close and where pipes are what I personally like to use is a grinder with a cutting wheel it makes very nice clean cuts and dosnt go far enough in to cut pipes behind it either way tho you need a good mask you do NOT want to breath in the dust your gonna make (and there will be lots) good luck
2007-03-08 00:59:34 · answer #9 · answered by jeff g 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've done it with a maul. I just chopped it in half. Wear eye protection, long sleeves and gloves. You will make a mess of broken sharp pieces, but they can be swept and vacuumed.
2007-03-08 03:42:14 · answer #10 · answered by Leo L 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋