A bathtub in good condition is a perfect tool to help you relax and unwind after a long day. However, as soon as this bathroom fixture gets old, it makes your bath time rather difficult and unsatisfying. Moreover, a damaged bathtub can cause water damage to the rest of the bathroom while making it look less appealing.
While a professional plumber can fix minor bathtub problems, some situations call for a replacement. How do you know when to replace your bathtub, though? Let’s find out.
5 Signs your Bathtub Needs Replacing
Here are five signs you should replace your bathtub:
1. Stains on the Bathtub
You can use different methods to clean your bathtub if it’s stained – and the good news is, this might work. However, sometimes you have to deal with severe, stubborn stains that won’t disappear regardless of how much you scrub. In such circumstances, it’s best to replace the bathtub.
This is also crucial because these stains are home to numerous disease-causing bacteria. At the same time, they make the bathtub look terrible.
2. Mold and Mildew
If you’re using an old bathtub, chances are it already has mold and mildew problems. This might seem a minor issue to begin with, but it can cause significant damage in the long run. Mold and mildew can make your bathtub look terrible, damage your home’s value, and are associated with various health issues.
They can cause migraines, allergies, breathing problems, rashes, and nervous system issues. If you suspect your bathtub has a mold and mildew problem, it’s high time you replace it.
3. Cracks
Bathtubs are made of different materials; hence they are subject to damage over time. The least expensive material used to design bathtubs is fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). However, FRP bathtubs can easily crack and leak water.
In contrast, more expensive and luxurious tubs are made using stone and porcelain. However, these bathtubs can chip over time, making them uncomfortable against the skin. In such circumstances, it’s better to replace a bathtub (with cracks or chips) to boost your bathing experience.
4. Size and Comfort
If your house has an older, outdated bathtub, you might be reluctant to use it since older bathtubs are designed with smaller dimensions. This makes them way too narrow to get in or out, making up for an uncomfortable bathing experience that you don’t want.
Your bathtub should have enough room, so it makes you feel comfortable. Therefore, if you have an old, uncomfortable tub, you should consider replacing it.
5. Leaks
Leaking water from your bathtub may cause significant structural damage to the surrounding walls. This is especially crucial if your bathtub is on your home’s higher floor since the water can seep into the rooms below.
You can fill your bathtub and leave it for about half an hour to check for leaks. If the water level lowers, it’s time to replace the bathtub.
Final Thoughts
A damaged bathtub can ruin your bathing experience and cause water damage to the rest of your bathroom while making it look unappealing. Though a professional plumber can fix your tub’s minor leaks, it’s better to replace the entire bathtub for the better. If you’ve observed one of the signs mentioned above and want to replace your bathtub, call Gilbert Plumbing for professional plumbing assistance.