Bathtub Replacement in Warsaw — Old Removal and New Installation

The old bathtub leaks, the enamel has yellowed, chips line the edges — a familiar sight in flats across Mokotow and Wola. Replacing the entire tub is more cost-effective than endless patching: a new one sits level on adjustable legs, holds water properly and looks the way it should. We remove the old bathtub, connect the new one to the drain and water supply, and verify everything is watertight — all in a single visit.

How much does bathtub replacement cost

The total covers removing the old tub, preparing the space and installing the new one with full plumbing connections. The price depends on the tub material (acrylic, steel or cast iron), the complexity of pipe routing and the condition of the walls behind the bath. Relocating connection points or replacing the trap assembly are quoted separately. Fixings and sealant are included in the labour cost. Materials (the bathtub itself, trap, bath panel) are supplied by the client. Current rates for all bathroom work are listed in the table below.

How the replacement works

1. Inspection and measurements: we check the alcove dimensions, pipe positions and the condition of the subfloor beneath the tub.
2. Shutting off the water: we close the hot and cold valves and drain the remaining water from the pipes.
3. Removing the old bathtub: we disconnect the trap, take off the bath panel and lift the tub out. A cast-iron bath may need to be broken up on site — otherwise it will not fit through the doorway.
4. Preparing the base: we level the floor and, if necessary, replace pipe sections or relocate connection points.
5. Installing the new bathtub: we set it level on adjustable legs and secure it to the wall (acrylic tubs go onto a support frame).
6. Connecting the plumbing: we fit the trap, connect the overflow and drain to the waste pipe, and install the mixer tap if included in the order.
7. Sealing the joints: we apply sanitary silicone around the full perimeter where the tub meets the wall, then test for leaks by filling the bath completely.

Important: all plumbing work is carried out with the water supply shut off and a full leak test afterwards. If we discover issues with the riser or pipe routing, we inform you before starting the installation. Do not risk connecting the plumbing yourself — a faulty joint can flood the flat below.

Common mistakes when replacing a bathtub

• Not measuring the alcove before buying — the new tub does not fit, or large gaps remain on each side.
• Choosing the cheapest trap — thin plastic cracks within six months, letting sewer odours into the room.
• Fitting an acrylic tub without a support frame — the base flexes under weight and eventually cracks.
• Skipping the spirit level — water pools at one end and the drain works poorly.
• Sealing the wall joint with expanding foam instead of silicone — foam breaks down from moisture and mould grows underneath.
• Forgetting to check the waste-pipe gradient — water drains slowly and dirt collects in the trap.
• Carrying a cast-iron tub out without preparation — door frames and corridor tiles get damaged.

What to prepare before the visit

• Buy the new bathtub and make sure it fits through the doorway (or at least into the stairwell).
• Get a trap with an overflow — a semi-automatic model is more reliable.
• If you want a bath panel, buy it in advance so the technician can fit it during the same visit.
• Make sure the shut-off valves are accessible (in the bathroom or on the riser).
• Clear the bathroom of unnecessary items: move the washing machine aside if possible, remove shelves.
• Keep a clear path from the front door to the bathroom — the old tub needs to come out.
• If the existing tub is cast iron — let us know in advance so we can plan disposal.
• Decide whether you also want the mixer tap replaced — it is easiest to do at the same time.
• Check with your building management whether there are noise-hour restrictions.

A real case from Warsaw

We were called to a flat in Ursynow. The owners had bought a 170 cm acrylic tub to replace their old cast-iron one. The cast-iron bath weighed close to 100 kg and would not fit through the door, so we broke it up with a sledgehammer right in the bathroom after covering the floor and wrapping the toilet in plastic sheeting. The fragments went out in heavy-duty bags. Underneath we found a crack in the waste pipe — we replaced that section on the spot. The new tub went onto its factory frame, was levelled, and connected to a semi-automatic trap. We sealed the wall joint with sanitary silicone and ran the test: filled the tub to the brim, waited fifteen minutes — not a single drop on the floor. The whole job took about four hours, including demolition and the pipe repair. The owners were happy — the tub is light, warm to the touch, and drains quickly.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a bathtub replacement take?
A standard swap takes 3 to 5 hours. If pipes need replacing or walls need patching, it can take a full working day.

Can I install a different-sized tub?
Yes, but the alcove will need adapting: extending or cutting pipes, possibly building a partition from plasterboard or tiles. This increases the scope of work.

Acrylic or steel — which is better?
Acrylic is lighter, warmer to the touch and quieter when filling. Steel is cheaper and stronger but noisy and loses heat quickly. Cast iron is a classic choice but extremely heavy and difficult to install.

Do I need to replace the tiles behind the tub?
If the existing tiles are in good condition and the dimensions match — no. If the new tub is a different length or the tiles are damaged, some re-tiling will be needed.

What happens to the old bathtub?
Steel and acrylic tubs are carried out and left by the waste container. Cast iron is broken up and removed in bags. Removal of bulky waste is charged separately.

Do you install shower enclosures instead of a bathtub?
Yes, but that is a different scope of work: it requires a shower tray or floor drain and different pipe routing. We discuss it on a case-by-case basis.

Book your bathtub replacement

We work across all of Warsaw — from Praga-Poludnie to Bemowo. We arrive with tools and fixings, connect everything and test it while you watch. If you need advice on choosing a bathtub or trap before the visit, give us a call. Get in touch and we will arrange a convenient time.