If all you are doing is replacing existing fixtures, bathroom remodeling is fairly easy. However, the bathing unit presents some problems under these circumstances. Toilets and bidets can be replaced quickly and easily. When these fixtures are changed, you might have to replace the bathroom flooring. This can be the case when new fixtures have a smaller footprint than existing fixtures. Lavatories and vanities are not difficult to replace, but you may have some work to do on the walls to hide defects from the change of fixtures.

Bathtubs and showers are more complicated to replace. To remove these fixtures, you have to create some wall damage. Refinishing a bathtub is one way to make it look fresh without creating wall damage or increased remodeling costs. Let's look briefly at the subject of removal of bathing units (Figure 5.1).

Figure 5.1: Typical rough installation of a bathtub.

Bathtubs often have ledges on them that are concealed by walls. In any event, a portion of the wall above the rim of a bathtub must be removed before the tub can be removed. The same type of ledge is present on most shower bases. Anyway you look at it, some wall damage is going to be incurred when removing a typical bathing unit. You may be able to repair or replace the wall section after a new bathing unit is installed, but matching the repaired or replaced section of wall with existing wall finishes can be nearly impossible. It...