Replacing shower/tub fixtures
We have a bathroom that previous owners half remodeled. They updated the vanities, floor, sink etc and everything looks nice. They however left the original tub/tile and fixtures. We are trying to figure out how to replace the old style 3 handle knobs and the gold colored tub spout and are wondering if it will require extensive work with replacing the tile and making a large hole. Tried contacting one plumber and it sounded like they would either need to make holes in the tile or come in from behind the wall which unfortunately for us is an external wall which would mean they need to make holes from the outside.
Does anyone have any experience in this kind of small remodel where we aren't really looking to gut the whole bathroom? Hoping to not even really need to disturb the tub itself since it seems to be in ok condition and we can get it refinished. Maybe I'm overthinking this and we have the plumber make holes in the tile and then find someone to patch it? (although not sure how to match the tile at that point either.)
Parent Replies
If you are just looking to update the look, there are lots of three-knob trims out there--I wouldn't say that's "old style" so much as personal preference, since they're still very popular and common. You can find a chrome or nickel spout and handles to match the newer fixtures in the space. If the tub is old enough that you need to replace the valve to update the trim, it can get more complicated, but if not, it is a pretty simple job. If the goal is to get rid of the three-handle setup, then yes, that's more work. But a good plumber should be able to minimize damage to the tile. One option to fill the space if you can't find tile that matches is to get an accent tile to fill the gap and then strategically place in other areas of the tilework to make the design appear intentional. Friends did this when remodeling a vintage bathroom that they didn't want to retile completely, and it looks beautiful.