How expensive/extensive is this plumbing job?
Started by korenmcc
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 10
Member since: Jun 2009
Discussion about
I'm looking to put an exposed thermostatic shower/tub body in my bathroom. Like this: http://www.qualitybath.com/product~name~Barber+Wilsons+5700BA~ID~4692.htm Right now there is something in there that looks like this (not the same brand): http://www.qualitybath.com/product~name~Herbeau%2B3031~ID~3845.htm My question is this, the shower body I want to install has a inlet spread of 7 7/8". The old... [more]
I'm looking to put an exposed thermostatic shower/tub body in my bathroom. Like this: http://www.qualitybath.com/product~name~Barber+Wilsons+5700BA~ID~4692.htm Right now there is something in there that looks like this (not the same brand): http://www.qualitybath.com/product~name~Herbeau%2B3031~ID~3845.htm My question is this, the shower body I want to install has a inlet spread of 7 7/8". The old tub filler has a inlet spread of 6", therefore I assume I cannot just replace the tub set with the thermostatic shower/tub body?? How extensive of a job would it be to install this (i.e. do changes need to be made to the pipes, breaking of tiles, etc.)? Would it be expensive? [less]
You don't need to open your wall, you can just replace the shower body. To do it you would need to use offset connectors which you can get from the same manufacturer, an example of the connectors is here http://www.barwil.co.uk/Docs/pages2-3.pdf.
The spray and shower are piped from the exterior so you don't need to run any piping behind the wall, you just need to attach the to the wall using screws and anchors. Very simple.
You will have to open the wall, repair the wall, retile the wall and then the plumber will install. Your building might require you to replace all the lines back to the riser once you open the wall which would increase your cost.
This will cost you around $3,500-$5,000
grabs popcorn....
Primer, why can I not use the offset connectors as Arx describes?
I just called Barber Wilsons and they said they do not make offset connectors, and the shower body must sit flush to the wall and connectors would prevent this from happening.
I didn't mean adding additional connectors but replacing the existing ones with the ones that are curved the way the connectors from my link above are curved, this let's you play with the inlet spread. I would be surprised if BW doesn't have these.
I spoke to one plumber this morning who told me you have to open the wall. I will ask others on Monday as well as my plumbing suppliers