For users who have purchased a clawfoot tub, dealing with loose or damaged claw feet after long-term use can be a headache. Sometimes, it might simply be that the original version no longer meets your aesthetic preferences. In either case, you will need to replace the clawfoot tub legs. This task isn't easy because these claw feet are located at the bottom of the tub, meaning you might need to flip the tub, which can be very heavy. So, how do you proceed?
Step 1: Identify the Problem
First, you need to inspect the claw feet to determine if they can still be used. Claw feet are usually installed with screws, and if they are merely loose, you can simply tighten them with a wrench. If they are completely broken or rusty, causing them to loosen, it’s advisable to buy a replacement rather than attempting to reattach or weld them. Reattaching is a temporary fix with potential risks, while welding requires high temperatures that may mar the tub's appearance. Purchasing a new clawfoot can cost anywhere from tens to hundreds of dollars.
Step 2: Find Replacement Claw Feet
For 4-in-1 clawfoot designs, even if only one foot is faulty, you might need to replace the entire set. For standalone claw feet, you only need to replace the damaged one, unless you want to change the style. It’s recommended to purchase from the original seller to ensure a 100% compatible and identical replacement.
If you are tired of the original look and want to change the style, this is feasible, but it’s still advisable to choose standard designs for easier future replacements. Common styles include: Armada, Ball-and-Claw, Cannonball, Imperial, and Paw. Here’s a brief introduction:
- Armada Feet: Square legs with decorative carvings, offering a unique aesthetic.
- Ball-and-Claw Feet: Designed after the Chinese motif of a dragon clawing a pearl, featuring a distinct cultural touch.
- Cannonball Feet: Typically have a round base and a tapered handle, with some modern designs being more streamlined.
- Imperial Feet: Mimic the royal emblems seen on flags and crests, exuding majesty and grandeur.
- Paw Feet: Usually mimic the shape and texture of animal paws, commonly lions or bears.
Step 3: Prepare the Bathtub
Once your replacement claw feet have arrived, you need to prepare your clawfoot tub for installation. Identify what type of clawfoot tub you have. For freestanding tubs, you can remove the bottom drain; if not, you might need to detach the faucet system. Remove the external bolts from the tub, then carefully pull the faucet apart. Unscrew the water valve, turning it to drain the water. Continue if the valve stops flowing.
Step 4: Lift the Tub
This is a labor-intensive task. Even if you have an acrylic clawfoot tub, it might weigh up to 100 pounds; for cast iron, it could be as heavy as 300 pounds, so don't attempt this alone.
If you have a jack, it will make the task much easier. Use foam boards to cushion between the jack and the tub to prevent damage to the tub’s bottom. The jack should always be positioned at the center of the tub to prevent tilting during lifting. Have someone assist in stabilizing it while operating the jack. Once you reach the necessary height, place foam boards at the four corners, stabilize, and slowly lower the jack.
Without a jack, you’ll need to invert the tub, using enough foam boards to protect the floor and avoid high repair costs.
Step 5: Replace the Claw Feet
With the tub elevated and properly supported, you can now access the screws without battling gravity. Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the bolts connecting the feet to the tub. Older claw feet may need to be unscrewed from the tub; depending on the material, you might need a wrench. Place it on the foot's shaft and tighten, turning left to loosen. Once removed, unscrew the foot, and repeat this process for the remaining feet. Screw in the new clawfoot tub legs, replace the jack, slightly lift the tub, remove the foam boards, and lower the tub. Reinstall the faucet and knobs.
