Replacing a bathtub can feel like a big project, but when you understand each step of the process, it becomes a lot less intimidating. Whether your current tub is cracked, outdated, or no longer fits your lifestyle, a professional bathtub replacement gives you a fresh start without the disruption of a full bathroom renovation.
At TurnKey Bathtubs, we’ve guided hundreds of New Orleans homeowners through this process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens from your first phone call to the moment you step into your brand-new bathtub.
Every bathtub replacement starts with a thorough evaluation of your existing bathroom. During your free consultation, a licensed technician from TurnKey Bathtubs visits your home to:
This step is critical in older New Orleans homes, where surprises behind walls and under floors are more common than you might expect. The assessment allows us to provide an accurate, transparent estimate before any work begins.
Once we understand your space and budget, we’ll help you select the right bathtub for your needs. There are several options to consider:
We’ll also discuss material options. Acrylic is the most common choice in the Greater New Orleans area because it’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to our humid climate. Cast iron offers excellent heat retention but requires a reinforced subfloor due to its weight. Fiberglass is budget-friendly and works well for guest bathrooms or rental properties.
Before replacement day, our crew takes steps to protect your home. Preparation includes:
This stage typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and sets the foundation for a clean, organized job from start to finish.
Removing the existing tub is often the most labor-intensive step. Our team carefully detaches the bathtub from the wall surround, cuts away any caulking or adhesive, and lifts the tub out of the alcove.
For heavier tubs like cast iron, we may need to cut the tub into sections for safe removal, especially in older homes with narrow hallways. Fiberglass and acrylic tubs are lighter and can usually be removed in one piece.
Once the tub is out, we haul it away so you don’t have to worry about disposal. All debris is removed from the work area before we move on.
With the old tub removed, we have a clear view of the plumbing and surrounding structure. This is a crucial inspection point. Our team checks for:
If your home needs plumbing repairs or updates, this is the most cost-effective time to handle them. Addressing hidden issues now prevents expensive problems later. In many New Orleans homes built before the 1960s, this step uncovers outdated galvanized piping or deteriorated drain lines that are best replaced during the project rather than after.
With the plumbing inspected and any necessary repairs complete, it’s time to set the new tub. Installation involves:
Proper leveling is essential. Even a slight tilt can cause water to pool instead of draining, leading to standing water and eventual damage. Our licensed installers (Residential #890459, Commercial #3667) verify every measurement before finalizing the installation.
The finishing stage is where your new bathtub starts to look complete. This step includes:
In New Orleans’ subtropical climate, the caulking and waterproofing materials we use are specifically chosen to withstand high humidity and temperature swings. Standard caulk breaks down faster in our environment, which is why we use commercial-grade silicone that’s rated for moisture-heavy applications.
Before we consider the job done, our team conducts a final walkthrough with you. During this inspection, we:
You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and confirm that everything meets your expectations. We don’t leave until you’re completely satisfied with the result.
Most standard bathtub replacements are completed in one to two days. Here’s a general timeline for a typical installation day:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning (8:00 – 9:00 AM) | Crew arrives, sets up workspace protection |
| Mid-morning (9:00 – 11:00 AM) | Old tub removal, plumbing inspection |
| Midday (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM) | Plumbing updates (if needed), subfloor repairs |
| Afternoon (1:00 – 4:00 PM) | New tub installation, surround, and finishing work |
| Late afternoon (4:00 – 5:00 PM) | Final inspection, cleanup, walkthrough |
More complex projects, such as those requiring extensive plumbing rework or custom tile surrounds, may extend into a second day. We’ll give you an accurate timeline during your consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Replacing a bathtub in New Orleans comes with a few unique considerations that homeowners in other parts of the country don’t typically face.
Many homes in neighborhoods like the Garden District, Bywater, Gentilly, and Mid-City were built in the early 1900s. Behind those walls, you might find knob-and-tube wiring near the bathroom, lead or galvanized plumbing, or structural framing that doesn’t meet current code. A qualified contractor knows how to handle these discoveries without derailing your project or your budget.
New Orleans averages over 75% relative humidity year-round. Every material used in your bathtub replacement, from backer board to caulking to the tub surround, must be rated for high-moisture environments. Using standard drywall or basic caulk behind a tub surround in our climate is a recipe for mold and premature failure.
Depending on the scope of your replacement, the City of New Orleans may require a plumbing permit. This is especially true if the project involves relocating drain lines or modifying water supply pipes. TurnKey Bathtubs handles all permit applications and inspections on your behalf, so you don’t have to navigate the process alone.
A little preparation on your part helps our crew work efficiently and protects your belongings:
If you live in a shotgun-style home or have narrow hallways, let us know during the consultation so we can plan the tub delivery route in advance.
Not every bathtub needs a full replacement. If your tub is structurally sound but has surface-level damage like chips, stains, or a worn finish, bathtub refinishing may be a more cost-effective option. Refinishing can restore the appearance of your existing tub for a fraction of the replacement cost.
However, replacement is the better choice when your tub has:
If you’re unsure which option is right for your situation, our team can evaluate your tub during a free consultation and recommend the most practical path forward. You may also want to consider a full bathtub remodel if you’re planning broader bathroom updates at the same time.
TurnKey Bathtubs has earned its reputation as New Orleans’ most trusted bathtub replacement team. Here’s why homeowners across the Greater New Orleans area rely on us:
Visit our gallery to see examples of recent bathtub replacements completed in homes throughout the New Orleans area.
TurnKey Bathtubs provides professional bathtub replacement services across the entire Greater New Orleans region. We proudly serve:
Metairie | Kenner | Gretna | Harahan | River Ridge | Slidell | Covington | Mandeville | Madisonville | Hammond | LaPlace | St. Rose | Baton Rouge
No matter where you are in the Greater New Orleans area, our team is ready to help. View all of our service areas for more information.
Most standard bathtub replacements are completed in one to two days. Projects that require significant plumbing updates, custom tile surrounds, or subfloor repairs may take up to three days. Your technician will provide a specific timeline during the initial consultation.
The cost of a bathtub replacement in New Orleans typically ranges from $1,600 to $6,500, depending on the type of tub, the condition of your plumbing, and the complexity of the installation. Contact us for a free, personalized estimate.
During the active installation, the bathroom being worked on will be out of service. If your home has a second bathroom, you’ll be able to use it normally. Our crew works efficiently to minimize the time your bathroom is unavailable.
It’s highly recommended. Removing the old tub typically disturbs the existing surround, and installing a new surround at the same time ensures a watertight seal and a cohesive look. It’s also more cost-effective than doing them as separate projects.
Yes. An updated bathroom is one of the top features buyers look for in the New Orleans real estate market. A modern, professionally installed bathtub adds both aesthetic appeal and functional value to your home.
Subfloor damage is common in older New Orleans homes, especially in bathrooms where leaks have gone unnoticed. Our team inspects the subfloor after removing the old tub and can repair or replace damaged sections before installing the new one. Addressing this during replacement prevents future structural problems.
Ready to replace your old bathtub? TurnKey Bathtubs makes the process simple, professional, and stress-free. From your first call to the final walkthrough, we handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying your new bathroom.
Call us today at (504) 666-3779 or schedule your free estimate online. Learn more about our team and why we’re the most trusted name in bathtub services across Greater New Orleans. Have questions? Visit our FAQ page for quick answers.
TurnKey Bathtubs is New Orleans’ #1 Bathtub Services Provider, proudly serving the Greater New Orleans area with licensed, professional bathtub installation and replacement services.
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