I don't think anyone can really answer that question because we don't know the full extent of what needs to be done.

That said, I do believe there is a bias against doing things that aren't standard issue big box store fixtures. Contractors don't like to quote things they aren't familiar with. The obvious option then is to try to work with someone who is familiar with the old fixtures.

He is correct that usually the only way to get those beasts out is in pieces.

Thanks. Actually he is familiar with the fixtures because this area is "historical", basically lots of red tape to deal with. But basically the tub faucet is underwater so I have to replace all of the fixtures.

Ok, so he's familiar with it. That's good.

Ask him for a detailed quote on that part of it so you can make an educated decision. In other words what are those fixtures going to cost vs a new shower. Spell it out in detail with a few options.

You don't want that kind of detail on the entire job... that would get tedious and unworkable. But if I had a historic fixture, I'd want enough solid information to make an informed decision without feeling like the plumber was deciding for me.

you are right!

I think you need a plumber who can explain the requirements a little better, so you can make your design choices.

For example, I cannot figure out what the statement that "the tub faucet is underwater" means. The faucet and/or the end of any flexible extension cannot be lower than the drain, since that configuration may lead to contaminated bath water being siphoned back into the fresh water system. This is usually a fairly easy fix.

The one obvious plumbing issue I can see in the picture is the S-trap in the sink drain, since S-traps are now prohibited. You will need to install a drain and vent line in the wall and add a T-fitting where the sink P-trap will connect. This could get complicated because you will have to open up the wall, and you have to determine how the vertical vent line will exit to the roof. It it also possible that the drain for the tub is also not properly vented, but its hard to tell without more investigation.

Bruce

Thanks Bruce. I have given in. Getting rid of the tub and going for a shower. Breaks my heart but realistically I need to get over it. The tub is antique but this afternoon I finally admitted that that was the only reason to keep it. I appreciate you input!

If you're in a historical house then taking the tub out is a horrible decision because people who want old houses want them as close to how they were. People pay huge dollars for claw foot tubs! I hope you still have time to change your mind.

cpartist, I have done my best to preserve as much as I can in this darn house. But the reality is we are going to live here, hopefully for a while, and the tub needs quite a bit of work to make it look nice and functional (has a lot of coats of paint). So I would need to pay to get it out of the house, to a refurbisher and back again, and I just don't have to money to spend on that right now. But I AM going to use it! I'm going to figure out something! Maybe use it in the garden.