Yes, it is possible to replace a drain stopper in a bathtub. The process is relatively simple and can typically be completed with just a few tools. Generally, the only tools you need to replace a bathtub drain stopper are a screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and a pair of pliers.
The steps involved in replacing a drain stopper vary depending on the type of drain stopper and the setup of your bathtub. In general, however, you will need to remove the linkage or lever, unscrew the drain stopper, and replace it with a new one.
To do this, you will need to first remove any screws holding the drain stopper in place and then remove the old stopper. After that, you can insert the new stopper and secure it with the screws. Once the new stopper is in place, you can then reattach any linkage or lever that was originally used.
After everything is secured, you should now be able to test and make sure the new drain stopper is working properly.
Can you change a tub drain stopper?
Yes, it is possible to change a tub drain stopper. Depending on the type of drain stopper installed in the tub, the process could require a few different tools and materials. Begin by assessing the type of drain stopper it is.
If it is a toe touch, push/pull, twist/lock, or flip-it, it is relatively simple to replace it. Make sure the tub is empty and that it is disconnected from the pipes if applicable. Some materials you will need include a screwdriver, Allen wrench, and plumber’s putty or silicone.
You may also need an adjustable wrench, multi-grip pliers, and/or a drain key. Once you have the necessary items, loosen the screws at the top of the stopper. Carefully remove the stopper, ensuring that nothing falls down the drain.
Clean any debris from the drain pipe and use some plumber’s putty or silicone to create a seal where the stopper and the drain meet. Install the new stopper following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finally, reconnect the water supply and test the new stopper.
Are bathtub drain stoppers universal?
No, bathtub drain stoppers are not universal. Every bathtub drain stopper will fit a particular type or style of drain and there are several types of these, including: flip-it stoppers, toe-touch stoppers, pump-style stoppers, trip lever stoppers, twist-and-pull stoppers, magnetic stoppers, and lift-and-turn stoppers.
There can also be some variation between models and brands, depending on the type and size of drain. For example, a popular brand and model might use different sizes of screws, or different depths of the stopper, which could mean it won’t fit a different brand or model of bathtub drain.
Moreover, some newer tubs have built-in drains where there is no stopper and the water level is controlled by a valve in the wall or a specialized faucet handle. This type of drain would not be compatible with any of the above types of drain stoppers.
How much does it cost to replace a stopper in the bathtub?
The cost to replace a stopper in the bathtub depends on several factors, including the type of stopper, the materials used, and labor costs. For a standard pop-up stopper made of plastic, you can expect to pay between $20 and $30.
If you are replacing a more complex stopper made of metal, such as a trip-lever, prices can range from $40 to $100. Labor costs can vary widely, from around $100 to $200 or more. The best way to find out the exact cost for your specific project is to have a local plumber or general contractor provide you with an estimate after assessing the job.
What can I use instead of a tub stopper?
If you don’t want to use a tub stopper, there are several other options that may be suitable for your needs. Plumbing suppliers and home store retailers typically carry a wide selection of items ranging from toe-touch levers and flipstoppers to bubble stoppers.
A toe-touch lever is probably the simplest and most cost-effective solution. It fits over the drain and requires you to push down on the lever to open or close the drain. In most cases, you can adjust the water level by turning the lever to the left or right.
Flipstoppers are similar to toe-touch levers but are designed so they stay in the down position while the drain is open. The only difference is that you need to press the lever down to open the drain and press again in order to close it.
Bubble stoppers are probably the most commonly used alternative to a tub stopper. These feature a round disc that fits over the drain and are most commonly used for baths and showers. The disc blocks the drain hole and allows you to adjust the depth of the water in the tub or shower.
How do I remove and replace drain stopper?
Removing and replacing a drain stopper requires a few simple steps.
First, locate the stopper. It will either be a lever-type stopper at the base of the faucet, or a plug-type stopper located inside the drain.
If the stopper is lever-type, use a flat-blade screwdriver to remove it by unscrewing the screw that holds it in place. However, if it’s a plug-type stopper, you’ll need a drain key, an adjustable wrench, or a pair of pliers to unscrew the nut that holds it in place.
Once the stopper is removed, you can insert the new stopper into the drain. With lever-type stoppers, you won’t need extra hardware, but with plug-type stoppers, you will need to purchase a replacement nut to secure it in place.
After the new stopper is inserted, you can secure it with either the original screw if it’s a lever-type stopper, or the replacement nut if it’s a plug-type stopper. Tighten the nut until the stopper is secure but don’t overtighten it.
Finally, you should test the stopper to make sure it’s fully functioning. With lever-type stoppers, you may want to secure it with a plumber’s putty if there are any gaps between the stopper and the drain.
Once the stopper is installed, it’s a good idea to reseal the underside of the drain with a waterproof sealant to prevent any leaks. If the sealant appears to be old and cracked, use a razor blade to scrape it off and then apply a fresh coat.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to easily remove and replace your drain stopper.
What size bathtub drain stopper do I need?
When deciding what size bathtub drain stopper you need, the best place to start is by measuring the existing drain. Standard sizes are usually either 1 1/2” or 2”, although slightly different measurements could be used for special cases.
To measure properly, use a ruler to measure the width of the drain opening. This will give you an accurate measurement of the drain size that you need.
The next step is to decide what type of drain stopper you would like. There are a variety of options ranging from pop-up stoppers and flat styles to foot-operated drains. Pop-up stoppers come in various sizes and are generally the most common type.
Flat drains, however, have a flange that fits over the top of the drain and a rubber washer seals the drain opening. Foot-operated drains require a lever to be turned in order to open and close the drain.
After selecting the drain size and type, the final step is to install the correct size and type of drain stopper. Most drains will require an adapter in order to allow the stopper to fit properly and securely.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and you should have a functioning drain stopper!.
How do you plug a bathtub drain when the stopper doesn’t work?
If your bathtub drain stopper is not working properly, you may need to replace it with a new one. The steps to replace a bathtub stopper are as follows:
1.You’ll want to remove the existing stopper by unscrewing it from the knob of the bathtub. You may need to use an adjustable wrench or pliers to remove the stopper.
2. You’ll want to make sure you purchase a stopper that is the same size as the one being replaced. Take the old one to a home improvement store or plumbing supply to make sure you get the right size.
3. Install the new stopper by screwing it onto the knob of the bathtub. You may need to use a wrench or pliers for this.
4. Once the stopper is securely in place, test it out by placing a bucket of water in the tub and checking that the stopper stops the water from escaping. If the water is still running, you may need to adjust the stopper or replace it again with a larger size.
It is always best to contact a plumber if you are uncertain about replacing a bathtub stopper on your own. Plumbers are trained to diagnose and repair bathtub drains so they can help you find the best solution for your particular problem.
How do you fix a bathtub stopper spring?
Fixing a bathtub stopper spring is a relatively easy task. First, you will need to remove the existing bathtub stopper. You can do this by removing the retaining nut secured to the bathtub wall, and then removing the lift rod, which holds the stopper in place.
Next, you will need to locate the stopper spring, which is typically found behind the bathtub wall near the stopper, and unscrew it from the drain. Then, replace your old spring with a new one, and screw the new spring back into place.
Finally, reassemble the lift rod and retaining nut, and your bathtub stopper spring will be fixed.
Where does the rubber seal go on a bathtub drain?
The rubber seal for a bathtub drain typically goes between the strainer and the tub. The strainer on a drain consists of the metal top that screws onto the piping and the rubber gasket that goes underneath it.
Depending on the type of bathtub drain you have, the rubber seal either slides over the top of the strainer and sits between it and the underside of the tub or it is located between the strainer top and the bottom of the tub.
A sealant or plumbers putty may also be used to help prevent water leaks between the strainer and tub. Additionally, because of the weight of the water and tub, the strainer and tub need to be tightened into place.
If the seal is installed incorrectly, it can cause a water leak to occur.
How do you install a bathtub drain gasket?
Installing a bathtub drain gasket is relatively easy. Start by ensuring the bathtub drain flange is securely mounted; if it is loose, adhere it firmly with a sealant. Next, take a clean cloth andremove any debris or dirt from the flange in order to ensure a tight seal.
Once the flange is clean, place the drain gasket over the lip of the drain and press it firmly onto the bottom of the flange, so that it is flush. Apply a small bead of silicone sealant above and below the gasket in order to adhere it better.
Place the tub strainer into the drain hole and fit it into the ring of the bathtub drain gasket,adhering it with sealant if necessary. Finally, if needed, connect the strainer to the drain using a linkage, such as a PVC steel, pop-up, or drum trap linkage.
Once all the components are connected, check to make sure the drain is secure and there are no leaks.
Does shower drain gasket go on top or bottom?
When it comes to installing a shower drain gasket, the gasket should generally be placed on the bottom, as this provides most reliable water protection. This also prevents any water from pooling on the top of the gasket and potentially seeping in around the edges.
During installation, the gasket should be laid at the base of the drainpipe and then placed inside the strainer basket of the drain. Make sure the gasket is held firmly in place and that the edges are sealed to the drainpipe.
After that, the strainer basket should be put in place and tightened down with a wrench. Once the strainer basket is secure, the drain flange can be placed on top and tightened. Finally, the remainder of the drain assembly should be put in place and secured with screws.
Should I use a rubber gasket and plumbers putty on a tub drain?
Yes, when installing a tub drain, it is important to use a rubber gasket and plumbers putty. The rubber gasket will help to create a watertight seal around the drain, preventing any leaks or moisture seeping through.
Plumbers putty is typically used to help with the installation of the drain, to help stabilize it in the drain opening while tightening the drain tight. Plumbers putty will also help to create an airtight seal, which will further add to the effectiveness of the rubber gasket.
Additionally, plumbers putty will help in preventing any corrosion build-up between the drain and the tub opening.
How do you seal the top of a shower drain?
Sealing the top of a shower drain may seem like a daunting job, but it doesn’t have to be. There are several different methods you can use depending on the type of drain you have.
The most common method, and the one recommended by professionals, is to use a caulk sealant. Before applying the sealant, make sure the drain is cleaned and free of any excess grime or debris. Then apply a layer of sealant, preferably a silicone-based one, around the outer edge of the drain.
Use a putty knife to smooth the sealant for a tight seal.
Another way to seal the top of the shower drain is by using a rubber gasket. This is simply a rubber disc that fits into the top of the drain, covering it completely. Once the rubber gasket is in place, use a screwdriver to secure it.
Finally, you can seal the top of the shower drain by using a metal grating. This is a metal cover that you can place over the drain and secure using screws or bolts. It will prevent water from leaking out of the top of the drain and will keep the pipe under the drain clean and free of debris.
Regardless of which method you use to seal the top of the shower drain, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and check your work periodically to ensure that no leakage is occurring.
Do you need plumbers putty to install a tub drain?
Yes, you do need plumbers putty to install a tub drain. Plumbers putty is a malleable material that can be used to create a water-tight seal between surfaces. It is a commonly used material in plumbing and is used around drains, fixtures, and other plumbing components.
When installing a tub drain, the plumbers putty will typically be used to form a seal between the sink or tub opening and the drain flange. Care should be taken to apply the putty evenly around the flange to create a tight seal, which will help to prevent water leakage.
After applying the plumbers putty, the drain can be secured in place and fastened to the tub or sink using the necessary screws and washers. Although plumbers putty is not absolutely necessary for installing a tub drain, it is highly recommended as a way to create a water-tight seal, helping to prevent future problems.