I'm a 65 year old grandma and I did just like you said and it worked just fine. Thank you for giving me the confidence to conquer this project. It took me about an hour and 15 minutes to cut all the way through. No messy clean up either! Thanks Again! :)
I got a bid of 1,200.00 to remove my cast iron tube and surround. I was quoted 12 hours for the demo and a $170.00 disposal fee. for a grand total of 1,370.00. I know, I know. I researched (RUclips) how to remove a cast Iron tube and I found over one hundred videos and the average time was 30 minutes. I found John, video and his was the best... Thank you, John!
That was my plan, the angle grinder, but you have shown me that one cut across the middle makes for 2 manageable pieces. Years ago, I took out a tub all in one piece, and hired a junk hauler to bring it down my staircase. Three of them it took to slide it down on old carpet scraps, then bust it apart in my yard with sledge hammers. I didn't want to do that this time for the same reasons you mentioned, primarily shrapnel. A close second was fatigue... I'm not as young as I once was! Thank you for a great video!
About to start a bathroom reno and did not want to go the sledgehammer route like I've done 2x before. I knew YT would have answers and yours was the first one up! Short, thorough and to the point. Thanks.
Thanks for the video! I used the method demonstrated in the video to remove a cast iron tub from my house yesterday. It went well and I did not shed any blood! Thanks again!
Glad to have found this video, which gave me the confidence to do what I would not have attempted otherwise. What I had thought to be a steel bath turned out to be cast iron. I first tried a reciprocating saw to cut the bath, with appropriate blades: however, cutting prorgress was impractically slow. I then watched this video, along with a "health-and-safety" video about using an angle grinder, bought an inexpensive face-guard to add to the standard eye-protection and dust-mask, after which slicing up the cast-iron bath was relatively quick and easy. I had to make three cuts to get sections small enough for removal, which used up four cheap 4½ inch/115mm cutting discs. Thanks for the inspiration.
I'm about to start replacing an old bath tub and am also a 65-yr old Grandma! Still interested in tips on deciding exactly what my old tub is made of.... will keep You Tubing until I figure it out, I imagine. Thanks for a great video.
just did this today and it worked fine. i bought a Milwaukee 15 amp, 7 inch grinder and it worked great. I wasn't able to get the lowest part because the wheel would've damaged the floor, so I used a sledge hammer on the last couple of inches. otherwise, clean project. thanks!!
Super helpful. Another channel suggested using a reciprocating saw with diamond blades but he took 2 hours and went through about 10 blades. Beating on a tub with a sledge hammer is a great way to crack nearby window panes, knock pictures off adjoining walls, and generally cause more problems than it's worth.
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Love to you! I just broke one apart two days ago with a hammer. lol That is why I looked the video up. I had no power tools, and no experience in this type of work. I just tried to learn as I moved on. Thank you! Breaking that tub with a hammer took alot of energy lol. I did get her out though.
Great tip. I used a dewalt blade and it wore down pretty fast. Went and bought a Lenox diamond 4.5 inch blade and it’s just like butter. Amazing. Thank you.
Can you tell me a bit more about the die grinder? I assume 1/4 collet, but it is 1/4 horse power or 1/2 horsepower, 18 or 20 volts? Did it come as a 90 degree angle or is that an attachment? Brand? (this is probably the only thing I will ever use it for, so might as well get the best for this job!) LOVE THIS IDEA v sledge hammer. Thank you!
This is exactly how we remove tubs!!! Sometimes when I'm working by myself and on second floor, I'll cut them in 3 sections. Makes it easier to load in truck and unload later.
Wow. What a sane way to remove a tub. Watching people bash them apart and end up with a mound of sharp slivers, you know there had to be a better way. Heading to HD to rent a grinder. You're a smart man, Mr. Karasiewicz.
I cut my cast iron tub with an angle grinder too. It took about six wheels. The sledgehammer way might be better because it's safer. That angle grinder leaves a lot of dust. Those n95 mask clear out 95% of particles Only when there is an exhaust fan pulling out the dust. I didn't see a fan in that bathroom. This is like chromium dust.
Thanks John, did what you said and it worked like a charm. With the tub cut in half it was still extremely heavy because i did it by myself. To anyone thinking of doing this buy a lenox 4.5 diamond blade and use good safety gear, you don't want cast iron shavings in your eye. Great video!
I did the sledgehammer method and had it broken up and hauled out and swept up within 40 minutes. I put down old-school painters drop cloth over the tub, painters plastic on the floor and counter top. When hitting it all the shrapnel stayed in the tub area, and all the debris could be scooped onto the painters plastic and bagged up the crumbs into the plastic at the end to haul away. No way would I have been strong enough to move even 1/4th of the tub in one piece, easily 400lb bulky tub.
I do bathroom remodels with the homeowners present on every occasion the sledgehammer technique is caveman style it's old school it's a lot better A lot faster lot less clean up just to cut it down the middle with the grinder
I REMODEL FOR A LIVING IF I HAD TO SMASH EVERY TUB I CAME ACROSS I'D HAVE CARPLETUNNEL AND HEARING AIDS. NOT TO MENTION A NIFTY SET OF SLEDGE HAMMERS. YOU CAN ALSO TAKE OUT STUDS AND LIFT IT OUT AS A HOLE STRAPPED TO A DOLLY. YOU ARE PROBABLY GUTTING THE DRYWALL FOR A SUBSTRATE ANYWAY. I KNOW A NEW STUD IS ALMOST 3 DOLLARS ITS A LOT OF MONEY...
Thank you for the video! I used this method yesterday and it worked very well. The risk of damage to drywall (popping all the nail heads) on adjacent walls was high if I used a sledge, so this method allowed for a very quick, controlled removal and clean-up.
Thanks for the very practical method. I saw another video where a guy tilted out the tub the same way you did, but in 1 piece (so no cutting). But, both his method and yours pretty much requires getting valves and even wall board off first, to have nothing blocking the tilt-out removal............... That causes me to wonder if a modification of your technique could even avoid wall and valve removal - why not cut tub cross-wise, as you did, but in 2 places near the middle. Then drag out a small mid section. Then, pull each end section toward the center gap to get each one clear of obstructions on the end walls, then tilt each one out. This would also cut the tub into 3 sections, so each would weigh less and fit through the doorway easier.
Thanks for the video. Well done. I started doing this and decided to check out youtube and found your video. Gave me confidence to continue. One thing to make sure of is have a good mask and safety goggles. Not thinking, I started without a mask and payed the price. My nose was burning/running all night. Real bad stuff. Thanks again.
Can't imagine it would be worth it or much faster. U wouldn't be able to cut all of it without the saw base hitting floor and wall. The radius inside the tub would likely give u similar issues with the saw base being a hindrance
Yes very helpful I have an old cast iron tub that the government put in my house for the elderly lady that lived here in the 50’s. I’m wanting to remove it and put in a full shower. Thank you
Your way of doing this is a good method -- rather than the sledge hammer method! Thanks and appreciate. I would like to know if more issues -- like if tub is set in "mortar" down below as in older homes over 50 years what would it be ?
Definitely use a respirator or an N-95 tight fitting mask--this makes an iron flour that you will breathe in without a mask; it will settle on all surfaces in the room.
I've used the sledgehammer approach. It risks breaking stuff you want to save (I once hit a toilet on a backswing) and makes a mess. This process is simple and takes less time. I bought a $15 diamond tipped 4-1/2" blade for my grinder at Lowes and had the thing cut in about 15 minutes. Just some black dust to sweep up.
I have a old cast iron claw tub. It is in relative good shape. I added the special shower surround too. only thing is it's high wall makes for steeping in and out tough. I am thinking of just cutting down the one side to make getting in and out easier. Thanks for the demo. Have you ever had a problem with sparks 🔥?
Gas-powered cut-off saw, swimming goggles, and a red bandana tied around my mouth hole. 4 minutes. You sledgehammer types are savages, bless your hearts...
Thanks John, I used this technique with a cast iron kitchen sink, it was a piece of cake to remove it by myself. I used a shop vacum to take care of dust, Thanks again. Frank.
I am planning a bath redo and love your idea of getting rid of the cast tub. I will let you know how it worked out. But thanks I didn't want to sledge it out. Me---77.
Sounds like the way to go. I am ordering a replacement deep soaker tub. 1963 construction. Are most drains of this period flush with the floor? My other "safe" choice is one that accomodates the pipe above or on top of the floor and adds 2 inches to the overall height of the tub.
I literally saw this video because I was going to use a sledgehammer method and I did what he said but I cut just like you but I cut in thirds took out the middle piece and then the two side pieces to slide it out so much easier
This is the way to cut up a pre-1950 tub. They are 1/2" thick cast iron and will not succumb easily to a sledge hammer without vibration damaging everything else. We used a metal-cutting diamond blade ($21) and quartered the thing. About an hour + of cutting. If you have a big magnet it will catch some of the filings. The top edge was reinforced with steel angles, and these were cut with a Sawzall. Each quarter weighed 95 lbs.
Thanks for your video! I have a similar issue with a cast iron kitchen sink. It weighs as much as a small elephant. Already have a back problem so I don't need to lift that much weight. I did buy a diamond blade for my Skill Saw for forty bucks and see YOUR angle grinder which I have three of in my shop. Going to look at the assortment of cutting wheels, just maybe I have one that will cut that cast iron! Anyway I prefer not to sledge hammer the sink so cutting is the way I'd like to go! Again, Thanks My Friend! Be safe, take care!😊
I really like this method. The safety gear is a must. You will also need some good comfortable gloves to help protect the hands also. Thanks for this video.
I'm about to embark on this process and am reading the comments. I'm struck by those talking about the fine dust everywhere. Thinking that before I begin, I'll seal my tiny bathroom with drapes of plastic so as to prevent dust everywhere in the rest of the house.. Maybe even open the bathroom window and stick a fan inside it to suck out the dust as I go,
I was totally sold on this method until I was about 10 minutes in, and still not quite halfway through my tub using the recommended inexpensive metal cutting wheel, before I realized that the entire bathroom was now covered in a fine layer of soot, and my whole house smelled like a brake shop. All that stuff shown in the bottom of the tub in this video was all over the rest of the bathroom. It took me an hour to clean all the soot off of the walls and surfaces. It even got into the closed shelves and drawers of the vanity, and scratched the surface of my plastic toilet seat when I tried to wipe it off. What a mess. Should have read the deeper into the comments where people recommend a diamond blade. Do not use a cheap metal cutting wheel!! I took out my frustrations with a 20oz framing hammer and had the tub out within 15 minutes. Sorry man. I love the idea, but it didn’t work so well for me.
You get what you pay for. An abrasive wheel will make a mess. Use a thin diamond blade made for metal, like a Lenox. A big magnet near your work will catch lots of the cuttings.
20 minutes I could have the whole tub out with a sledge hammer, but this method is good in cases where banging away with a sledge can cause collateral damage and special care needs to be taken.
This is much safer than hammer bashing it then risking injury..or many times I dont want pieces flying not only at me but all over the bathroom and damaging other stuff. Often it's not always a complete bathoom remodel so why risk damaging yourself or other areas in the bathroom (cabinets, walls, fixtures, etc) Too many hacks out there these days and really..whats 20 minutes to saw it in half ? Nothing IMO. And if you can't carry out half a tub (150 pounds) you're in the wrong business. A second guy is easier on the back if ya have a helper. Good video.
But how much time picking up 350 pounds of pieces and carrying it all out multiple trips? I don't know the time spent vs the mess seems better cutting.
Easy way to refinish a cast Iron tub where the surface has been dulled due to the use of abrasive cleanser powders like Ajax or Comet is to use Carnauba Wax and a buffer just like you would use for a car. It does a great job, it does not take very long, and lasts surprisingly well as long as you apply 2-3 coats minimum and don't use abrasives or chemicals that may be too harsh for cleaning. Maintenance may be the occasional (every year or so) buffer first and then a new coat with a second buffer. A word of caution though, us some sort of bath mat in the tub for traction because it will be slick and pull the mat after each use so the tub dries.
This works with very little effort. Two blades/wheels used...probably one premium wheel would do the trick. I stopped occasionally for vacuuming, and the bottom inside curves seem to be a bit stubborn but the length of time for me from first cut to having the tub out the door was about 3 hours. TAKE YOUR TIME and this is very easy.
Using a sledge has downsides. Years ago I did some bathroom demo with a sledge and I looked up and I could see through into my daughters bedroom. That wasn’t supposed to be. A big piece of plaster had fallen off due to vibration from the hammering 😀
Thanks for sharing this! I have two of them that I've been avoiding removal for 15 years. I have a question. The second bathroom you showed with the porcelain/marble tile. Did you have to remove the bottom row of tile that's along the tub?
Find a photo of a tub similar to yours. My 1929 tub had no flange under the tile. So I taped the tile to keep it from flying off if it was loose and quartered the tub. It's hard not to lose one tile when you cut the top edge of the tub. Newer tubs often have a flange behind the tiles. It's safe to say that in the best case you will loose a tile or two, so you should plan on some replacements at least.
This video is helpful, but this approach definitely has some downsides. It works, but cast iron dust/smoke is sticky, black and absolute murder to clean up - can create a days-long clean up project if cuts are performed anywhere near finished surfaces. Several unaddressed safety issues too: test for lead first or you'll be dispersing lead throughout the home; use a guard on that angle grinder - super dangerous to use cut-off discs without one; full facemask and gloves a must as well.
Me and my labor use this technique and it's a lot better for us on our bodies and when you're doing a remodel with homeowners present it's a lot easier on the house and their ears
Thankyou...I cut the back wall and most of the front double wall...quick scored the bottom....then sledged the bottom out of it. (Trying a reciprocating saw was worthless.) .. Hillbilly Overalls not required.
Hammer hammer hammer. Much easier !... I have taken out in one piece before now , two man job though. Anyhow it is a heavy bath and whatever it takes take them out. As you say they never last with the enamel kits and spoils the look of a new bathroom when the new enamel starts to come away !
First..that is not a die grinder ,, it is an angle grinder .and was looking to see what type of blade you have on it ?? Diamond blade ,, ?? I have used angle n diamond for cement but what did you use here?
My tub was actually acrylic so I used a sawzall but it still wasn't a problem because of the bottom being lifted 1-2" off the floor. I had to angle the sawzall, here just make sure to only go through 1/2" and you are good.
I have taken a whole one out myself...you need a lot of short 2x4 blocks...6ft pry bar...std crow bar...and a 2x3 furniture dolly (homemade) to get it rolled out....plywood on any steps...out to the curb...advertise it free on Craigslist...very difficult.. (me 5'10" and 145 lbs)
I think I’ll do this instead. Bought a 70 year old house and I have no experience at doing any of this but my shower pipe busted in the wall so I’m having to tear the whole shower out and install a new one. Good thing o have some common sense though. Got the walls out and looking good. Just gotta get the cast iron tub out.
🤓🤓🤓Thank you! for the video! Prefer this method with the saw as opposed to the sledgehammer, the hammer looks to dangerous and destructive. Again, thank you for a better alternative.☺️☺️☺️☺️👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I’m sorry. I watched the rest of the video and, again will have to assert. At the end of this video at 6:12 the host stands by the cut out tub with bear hands, one on the tub and one on his face. That is exactly how metal gets in your eyes. And as for being gentile to the structure, if you use a lump hammer not a sledgehammer vibration will be limited to the tub. That being said, even still, you can repair walls; you can’t easily repair your eyes. And, environmentally speaking, you can sweep and “bag the cast for scrap.”
I’ve got a 1952 American Standard tub that is in pristine shape. There must be different grades of cast iron and the glazing used. I’d say that for 72 years old it looks like the day it was put in. It was placed when the house was built, before the walls went up. Long story short we are removing two studs for another reason but it would make for an easy path out of the bathroom, into the walk in wall to wall closet, thought the bedroom, on its side out the door, across the hallway. Uh oh, has to go down a flight of steps. So here we go with the angle grinder. Not ideal, but the cost to have a crew take this out is simply not worth it. These tubs go for on average $300-400 on EBay but the moving crew wanted twice that amount. Then you have to find that buyer and store the thing. Where? Front yard? Nope, Off to the city recycle it goes. Still sad.
Grinder creates spark . Fire and dry wood are a terrible fire waiting to happen . I mean cmon you can throw a spark into a recess and not even realize it .
![FNAF vs TF2 - Episode 2 [SFM]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/z5b3V2-VLb0/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm a 65 year old grandma and I did just like you said and it worked just fine. Thank you for giving me the confidence to conquer this project. It took me about an hour and 15 minutes to cut all the way through. No messy clean up either! Thanks Again! :)
I got a bid of 1,200.00 to remove my cast iron tube and surround. I was quoted 12 hours for the demo and a $170.00 disposal fee. for a grand total of 1,370.00.
I know, I know. I researched (RUclips) how to remove a cast Iron tube and I found over one hundred videos and the average time was 30 minutes.
I found John, video and his was the best... Thank you, John!
That was my plan, the angle grinder, but you have shown me that one cut across the middle makes for 2 manageable pieces. Years ago, I took out a tub all in one piece, and hired a junk hauler to bring it down my staircase. Three of them it took to slide it down on old carpet scraps, then bust it apart in my yard with sledge hammers. I didn't want to do that this time for the same reasons you mentioned, primarily shrapnel. A close second was fatigue... I'm not as young as I once was! Thank you for a great video!
About to start a bathroom reno and did not want to go the sledgehammer route like I've done 2x before. I knew YT would have answers and yours was the first one up! Short, thorough and to the point.
Thanks.
Thanks for the video! I used the method demonstrated in the video to remove a cast iron tub from my house yesterday. It went well and I did not shed any blood! Thanks again!
Good and quick explanation.
Less talking by him & more doing !!
Liked it!!
Good work, man. Thank you for the video. I was suspicious of the sledge hammer method and you proved the angle grinder is the right tool for the job.
Glad to have found this video, which gave me the confidence to do what I would not have attempted otherwise. What I had thought to be a steel bath turned out to be cast iron. I first tried a reciprocating saw to cut the bath, with appropriate blades: however, cutting prorgress was impractically slow. I then watched this video, along with a "health-and-safety" video about using an angle grinder, bought an inexpensive face-guard to add to the standard eye-protection and dust-mask, after which slicing up the cast-iron bath was relatively quick and easy. I had to make three cuts to get sections small enough for removal, which used up four cheap 4½ inch/115mm cutting discs. Thanks for the inspiration.
What angle grinder did you use? 5 amp? 15 amp?
Super-duper helpful video!! If I ever (hopefully never) move to an old house with a cast iron tub again I will remember your words of wisdom!
I'm about to start replacing an old bath tub and am also a 65-yr old Grandma! Still interested in tips on deciding exactly what my old tub is made of.... will keep You Tubing until I figure it out, I imagine. Thanks for a great video.
just did this today and it worked fine. i bought a Milwaukee 15 amp, 7 inch grinder and it worked great. I wasn't able to get the lowest part because the wheel would've damaged the floor, so I used a sledge hammer on the last couple of inches. otherwise, clean project. thanks!!
Super helpful. Another channel suggested using a reciprocating saw with diamond blades but he took 2 hours and went through about 10 blades. Beating on a tub with a sledge hammer is a great way to crack nearby window panes, knock pictures off adjoining walls, and generally cause more problems than it's worth.
Tip for everyone, put a tarp over the tub before you hit it with a sledgehammer. Your welcome
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Love to you! I just broke one apart two days ago with a hammer. lol That is why I looked the video up. I had no power tools, and no experience in this type of work. I just tried to learn as I moved on. Thank you! Breaking that tub with a hammer took alot of energy lol. I did get her out though.
Great tip. I used a dewalt blade and it wore down pretty fast. Went and bought a Lenox diamond 4.5 inch blade and it’s just like butter. Amazing. Thank you.
Buy a face shield and hold on to the grinder it does kick on the side of the tub.
Can you tell me a bit more about the die grinder? I assume 1/4 collet, but it is 1/4 horse power or 1/2 horsepower, 18 or 20 volts? Did it come as a 90 degree angle or is that an attachment? Brand? (this is probably the only thing I will ever use it for, so might as well get the best for this job!) LOVE THIS IDEA v sledge hammer. Thank you!
I Just did it with a 4.5 diamond disk Rigid. About 20 minutes, but as you said it's really heavy, so I cut it in 3 parts.
This is exactly how we remove tubs!!! Sometimes when I'm working by myself and on second floor, I'll cut them in 3 sections. Makes it easier to load in truck and unload later.
Wow. What a sane way to remove a tub. Watching people bash them apart and end up with a mound of sharp slivers, you know there had to be a better way. Heading to HD to rent a grinder. You're a smart man, Mr. Karasiewicz.
I cut my cast iron tub with an angle grinder too. It took about six wheels. The sledgehammer way might be better because it's safer. That angle grinder leaves a lot of dust. Those n95 mask clear out 95% of particles Only when there is an exhaust fan pulling out the dust. I didn't see a fan in that bathroom. This is like chromium dust.
Thanks John, did what you said and it worked like a charm. With the tub cut in half it was still extremely heavy because i did it by myself. To anyone thinking of doing this buy a lenox 4.5 diamond blade and use good safety gear, you don't want cast iron shavings in your eye. Great video!
I did the sledgehammer method and had it broken up and hauled out and swept up within 40 minutes. I put down old-school painters drop cloth over the tub, painters plastic on the floor and counter top. When hitting it all the shrapnel stayed in the tub area, and all the debris could be scooped onto the painters plastic and bagged up the crumbs into the plastic at the end to haul away. No way would I have been strong enough to move even 1/4th of the tub in one piece, easily 400lb bulky tub.
I do bathroom remodels with the homeowners present on every occasion the sledgehammer technique is caveman style it's old school it's a lot better A lot faster lot less clean up just to cut it down the middle with the grinder
I REMODEL FOR A LIVING IF I HAD TO SMASH EVERY TUB I CAME ACROSS I'D HAVE CARPLETUNNEL AND HEARING AIDS. NOT TO MENTION A NIFTY SET OF SLEDGE HAMMERS. YOU CAN ALSO TAKE OUT STUDS AND LIFT IT OUT AS A HOLE STRAPPED TO A DOLLY. YOU ARE PROBABLY GUTTING THE DRYWALL FOR A SUBSTRATE ANYWAY. I KNOW A NEW STUD IS ALMOST 3 DOLLARS ITS A LOT OF MONEY...
I’ll let you know how this goes . So thankful I found this video . We were not looking forward to using a sledgehammer. 4/7/2024.
Thank you for the video! I used this method yesterday and it worked very well. The risk of damage to drywall (popping all the nail heads) on adjacent walls was high if I used a sledge, so this method allowed for a very quick, controlled removal and clean-up.
Thank you! I did kind of a combination---part cutting with my angle grinder, and part sledge-hammering. It made the sledge-hammering a lot easier.
Thanks for the very practical method. I saw another video where a guy tilted out the tub the same way you did, but in 1 piece (so no cutting). But, both his method and yours pretty much requires getting valves and even wall board off first, to have nothing blocking the tilt-out removal............... That causes me to wonder if a modification of your technique could even avoid wall and valve removal - why not cut tub cross-wise, as you did, but in 2 places near the middle. Then drag out a small mid section. Then, pull each end section toward the center gap to get each one clear of obstructions on the end walls, then tilt each one out. This would also cut the tub into 3 sections, so each would weigh less and fit through the doorway easier.
Thanks for the video. Well done. I started doing this and decided to check out youtube and found your video. Gave me confidence to continue. One thing to make sure of is have a good mask and safety goggles. Not thinking, I started without a mask and payed the price. My nose was burning/running all night. Real bad stuff. Thanks again.
Hey John ever try a circular saw with a metal cutting blade? Wonder if it would be faster or not?
Can't imagine it would be worth it or much faster. U wouldn't be able to cut all of it without the saw base hitting floor and wall. The radius inside the tub would likely give u similar issues with the saw base being a hindrance
Thank you …. Definitely using you tip … wasn’t looking forward to using a sledgehammer … hope you have a great day also
Yes very helpful I have an old cast iron tub that the government put in my house for the elderly lady that lived here in the 50’s. I’m wanting to remove it and put in a full shower. Thank you
Your way of doing this is a good method -- rather than the sledge hammer method!
Thanks and appreciate. I would like to know if more issues -- like if tub is set in "mortar" down below as in older homes over 50 years what would it be ?
Definitely use a respirator or an N-95 tight fitting mask--this makes an iron flour that you will breathe in without
a mask; it will settle on all surfaces in the room.
I've used the sledgehammer approach. It risks breaking stuff you want to save (I once hit a toilet on a backswing) and makes a mess. This process is simple and takes less time. I bought a $15 diamond tipped 4-1/2" blade for my grinder at Lowes and had the thing cut in about 15 minutes. Just some black dust to sweep up.
Very good, I'm 68 and will do this. I have the tools already. Yesterday a licensed Pro installed a new PEX water main, that was not cheap.
Thank you for the info! Gotta take out a cast tub this weekend.
Concerned about hitting it with a sledge but not concerned about using an angle grinder without a guard?
Safety third.
I'm sure glad I saw your video. I was really dreading trying to do this with a sledge hammer. I already even have everything to do the job. Thanks.
I have a old cast iron claw tub. It is in relative good shape. I added the special shower surround too. only thing is it's high wall makes for steeping in and out tough. I am thinking of just cutting down the one side to make getting in and out easier. Thanks for the demo. Have you ever had a problem with sparks 🔥?
If it is a good claw foot tub there is a market for them.
Gas-powered cut-off saw, swimming goggles, and a red bandana tied around my mouth hole. 4 minutes. You sledgehammer types are savages, bless your hearts...
Thanks John, I used this technique with a cast iron kitchen sink, it was a piece of cake to remove it by myself. I used a shop vacum to take care of dust, Thanks again. Frank.
I am planning a bath redo and love your idea of getting rid of the cast tub.
I will let you know how it worked out. But thanks I didn't want to sledge it out. Me---77.
Can I cut it in thirds etc to make it more manageable, weight wise?
Sounds like the way to go. I am ordering a replacement deep soaker tub. 1963 construction. Are most drains of this period flush with the floor? My other "safe" choice is one that accomodates the pipe above or on top of the floor and adds 2 inches to the overall height of the tub.
John! Great idea. I knew there had to be a better method than going all caveman on the tub. So simple and easy - great idea and great video!
Works perfectly, I cut mine in quarters and carried it out by myself with no issues. No mess to clean up either.
I literally saw this video because I was going to use a sledgehammer method and I did what he said but I cut just like you but I cut in thirds took out the middle piece and then the two side pieces to slide it out so much easier
This is the way to cut up a pre-1950 tub. They are 1/2" thick cast iron and will not succumb easily to a sledge hammer without vibration damaging everything else. We used a metal-cutting diamond blade ($21) and quartered the thing. About an hour + of cutting. If you have a big magnet it will catch some of the filings. The top edge was reinforced with steel angles, and these were cut with a Sawzall. Each quarter weighed 95 lbs.
Just what I was looking for rather than a sledgehammer. Thanks
Thanks for your video! I have a similar issue with a cast iron kitchen sink. It weighs as much as a small elephant. Already have a back problem so I don't need to lift that much weight. I did buy a diamond blade for my Skill Saw for forty bucks and see YOUR angle grinder which I have three of in my shop. Going to look at the assortment of cutting wheels, just maybe I have one that will cut that cast iron! Anyway I prefer not to sledge hammer the sink so cutting is the way I'd like to go! Again, Thanks My Friend! Be safe, take care!😊
I took 1 of these out of my house today in 1 piece. Took about 2 hours with 2 guys. Extremely heavy from 1949, weighed about 500 pounds.
I really like this method. The safety gear is a must. You will also need some good comfortable gloves to help protect the hands also. Thanks for this video.
I'm about to embark on this process and am reading the comments. I'm struck by those talking about the fine dust everywhere. Thinking that before I begin, I'll seal my tiny bathroom with drapes of plastic so as to prevent dust everywhere in the rest of the house.. Maybe even open the bathroom window and stick a fan inside it to suck out the dust as I go,
Some big magnets next to your cut helps. Also use a thin, diamond blade.
I was totally sold on this method until I was about 10 minutes in, and still not quite halfway through my tub using the recommended inexpensive metal cutting wheel, before I realized that the entire bathroom was now covered in a fine layer of soot, and my whole house smelled like a brake shop. All that stuff shown in the bottom of the tub in this video was all over the rest of the bathroom. It took me an hour to clean all the soot off of the walls and surfaces. It even got into the closed shelves and drawers of the vanity, and scratched the surface of my plastic toilet seat when I tried to wipe it off. What a mess. Should have read the deeper into the comments where people recommend a diamond blade. Do not use a cheap metal cutting wheel!!
I took out my frustrations with a 20oz framing hammer and had the tub out within 15 minutes. Sorry man. I love the idea, but it didn’t work so well for me.
Maybe even seal off door to the bathroom with double layers of plastic inside and out
You get what you pay for. An abrasive wheel will make a mess. Use a thin diamond blade made for metal, like a Lenox. A big magnet near your work will catch lots of the cuttings.
20 minutes I could have the whole tub out with a sledge hammer, but this method is good in cases where banging away with a sledge can cause collateral damage and special care needs to be taken.
This is much safer than hammer bashing it then risking injury..or many times I dont want pieces flying not only at me but all over the bathroom and damaging other stuff. Often it's not always a complete bathoom remodel so why risk damaging yourself or other areas in the bathroom (cabinets, walls, fixtures, etc) Too many hacks out there these days and really..whats 20 minutes to saw it in half ? Nothing IMO. And if you can't carry out half a tub (150 pounds) you're in the wrong business. A second guy is easier on the back if ya have a helper. Good video.
But how much time picking up 350 pounds of pieces and carrying it all out multiple trips? I don't know the time spent vs the mess seems better cutting.
Easy way to refinish a cast Iron tub where the surface has been dulled due to the use of abrasive cleanser powders like Ajax or Comet is to use Carnauba Wax and a buffer just like you would use for a car. It does a great job, it does not take very long, and lasts surprisingly well as long as you apply 2-3 coats minimum and don't use abrasives or chemicals that may be too harsh for cleaning. Maintenance may be the occasional (every year or so) buffer first and then a new coat with a second buffer. A word of caution though, us some sort of bath mat in the tub for traction because it will be slick and pull the mat after each use so the tub dries.
what kind of blade is it?
This works with very little effort. Two blades/wheels used...probably one premium wheel would do the trick. I stopped occasionally for vacuuming, and the bottom inside curves seem to be a bit stubborn but the length of time for me from first cut to having the tub out the door was about 3 hours. TAKE YOUR TIME and this is very easy.
Using a sledge has downsides. Years ago I did some bathroom demo with a sledge and I looked up and I could see through into my daughters bedroom. That wasn’t supposed to be. A big piece of plaster had fallen off due to vibration from the hammering 😀
I done both methods and I find the sledge hammer easier and in someway safer.
What’s the name of the saw that he used?
I've sledgehammered out a dozen tubs. At 55 I'm tired of that hard work. On Friday I will try this with a Lennox wheel and my cordless Ridgid grinder
Hi, Where did you purchase and what brand of diamond blades ?
Great video!!!
I just used a Lenox metal cutting 4.5" thin kerf diamond blade.
That was very helpful, thank you!
Hey John, Used your instructions to remove a CI tub. 10 minutes with a 15 amp and diamond blade. :-) Thanks for the confidence!
A diamond blade or a cast iron tub?
@@gabrielcerda3763 thats what I was thinking, what a pain in the butt that must have been
Thanks for sharing this! I have two of them that I've been avoiding removal for 15 years. I have a question. The second bathroom you showed with the porcelain/marble tile. Did you have to remove the bottom row of tile that's along the tub?
I'd like to know the answer to this question too. I'm trying to avoid re-tiling.
Find a photo of a tub similar to yours. My 1929 tub had no flange under the tile. So I taped the tile to keep it from flying off if it was loose and quartered the tub. It's hard not to lose one tile when you cut the top edge of the tub. Newer tubs often have a flange behind the tiles. It's safe to say that in the best case you will loose a tile or two, so you should plan on some replacements at least.
I like your idea! Easier on my joints.
This video is helpful, but this approach definitely has some downsides. It works, but cast iron dust/smoke is sticky, black and absolute murder to clean up - can create a days-long clean up project if cuts are performed anywhere near finished surfaces. Several unaddressed safety issues too: test for lead first or you'll be dispersing lead throughout the home; use a guard on that angle grinder - super dangerous to use cut-off discs without one; full facemask and gloves a must as well.
What?Do you work for OSHA. That
takes all the fun out of it.No stiches or trip to the hospital.Safety first nobody works
nobody gets hurt.
Totally agree. The dust you are creating can potentially be more harmful than metal, porcelain shards from a sledge hammer and way harder to clean up.
Paul Wright 😂😂😂😂i was thinking the same thing
Me and my labor use this technique and it's a lot better for us on our bodies and when you're doing a remodel with homeowners present it's a lot easier on the house and their ears
Thanks this process is much cleaner and easier!
Agree with you 1000% !!!!!! Thank you. I have no helper, so I cut mine into thirds.
Thank you! Hoping to try this method , I have an old tub and a new tile floor
Great video!!
Appreciate the safety gear, and recycling advice!
Thankyou...I cut the back wall and most of the front double wall...quick scored the bottom....then sledged the bottom out of it.
(Trying a reciprocating saw was worthless.)
..
Hillbilly Overalls not required.
That was very helpful, I like how you did it. Thanks Alot.
Thanks for the tip. I always thought the sledgehammer route was a bit risky.
It is. Whaling a sledge is just a mad crazy way to get a porcelain spear in your face.
Great method. I’m more of a brawn’s type of guy myself. But that saves me some sweat!
A face shield takes care of debris with a sledge. A sawzall or grinder works too. I'm trying to get one out intact which is a nightmare.
Hammer hammer hammer. Much easier !... I have taken out in one piece before now , two man job though. Anyhow it is a heavy bath and whatever it takes take them out. As you say they never last with the enamel kits and spoils the look of a new bathroom when the new enamel starts to come away !
I've been stuck on what to do besides the hammer and it's worth the money in blades to cut it in half like that
First..that is not a die grinder ,, it is an angle grinder .and was looking to see what type of blade you have on it ?? Diamond blade ,, ?? I have used angle n diamond for cement but what did you use here?
Ok i watched a little longer n seen you had said steel cut blade.. i have many thanks for video
I used a Lenox (China) 4.5" diamond blade made for metal cutting. Worked well.
You can break it apart in place, just cover the tub with a moving blanket, nothing Flys anywhere
Your Video saved me, Great Video, Thx
That’s exactly how I take them out. Moved a huge one today it was even hard to get the pieces down stairs with two of us.
Excellent DIY demo. Excellent job.
when cutting the bottom part of the tub, how do you stop yourself from cutting into the floor underneath?
My tub was actually acrylic so I used a sawzall but it still wasn't a problem because of the bottom being lifted 1-2" off the floor. I had to angle the sawzall, here just make sure to only go through 1/2" and you are good.
So what if you do?
The real Mario, Luigi is filming laughing at Mario for putting hoods dust man backwards
I have taken a whole one out myself...you need a lot of short 2x4 blocks...6ft pry bar...std crow bar...and a 2x3 furniture dolly (homemade) to get it rolled out....plywood on any steps...out to the curb...advertise it free on Craigslist...very difficult.. (me 5'10" and 145 lbs)
I think I’ll do this instead. Bought a 70 year old house and I have no experience at doing any of this but my shower pipe busted in the wall so I’m having to tear the whole shower out and install a new one. Good thing o have some common sense though. Got the walls out and looking good. Just gotta get the cast iron tub out.
Abrasive cut wheel or something better??
🤓🤓🤓Thank you! for the video! Prefer this method with the saw as opposed to the sledgehammer, the hammer looks to dangerous and destructive. Again, thank you for a better alternative.☺️☺️☺️☺️👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Good thing I seen this before ordering some 💥💥🧨🧨🧨 💥💥
I’m sorry. I watched the rest of the video and, again will have to assert. At the end of this video at 6:12 the host stands by the cut out tub with bear hands, one on the tub and one on his face. That is exactly how metal gets in your eyes. And as for being gentile to the structure, if you use a lump hammer not a sledgehammer vibration will be limited to the tub. That being said, even still, you can repair walls; you can’t easily repair your eyes. And, environmentally speaking, you can sweep and “bag the cast for scrap.”
works with plastic and fiberglass tubs also, just cut them in half
Safety first, no guard on grinder!
I’ve got a 1952 American Standard tub that is in pristine shape. There must be different grades of cast iron and the glazing used. I’d say that for 72 years old it looks like the day it was put in. It was placed when the house was built, before the walls went up. Long story short we are removing two studs for another reason but it would make for an easy path out of the bathroom, into the walk in wall to wall closet, thought the bedroom, on its side out the door, across the hallway. Uh oh, has to go down a flight of steps. So here we go with the angle grinder. Not ideal, but the cost to have a crew take this out is simply not worth it. These tubs go for on average $300-400 on EBay but the moving crew wanted twice that amount. Then you have to find that buyer and store the thing. Where? Front yard? Nope, Off to the city recycle it goes. Still sad.
This was great. Thank you.
Grinder creates spark . Fire and dry wood are a terrible fire waiting to happen . I mean cmon you can throw a spark into a recess and not even realize it .
Did he say safety first? He meant safety third
I have a plasma cutter, cuts like butter
Your a guru bro! Keep posting brother.
Two bathtub halves make great garden patio furniture for your hippie coffee shops.
Great tip. 👍🏽
Thank you for being logical. Most people say ya just gotta fucking smash it! Haha!