We all know how pricey a bathroom renovation can be. hipages estimates that Aussie bathroom renovations will usually cost between $10,000 to $35,000, and take between 1 and 3 weeks, depending on the scope of the project. Structural work, moving exisiting plumbing/installing new plumbing and replacing wall and floor tiles are tasks that end up adding to expenditure.
Image source: Pop sugar
Then there’s bathroom accessories, fixtures and utilities. The sky really is the limit, in terms of how much you can expect to pay for the essentials (toilet, basin, bath, shower) along with more mod-cons. The arrival of stock tank bathtubs on the scene is one way that bathroom renovators can save some cash, while still staying well and truly on trend.
Following in the footsteps of Stock Tank swimming pools, Stock Tank tanks are being repurposed as a stylish and creative alternative to the traditional bath. And with a water capacity of up to 2,000 litres and an average price tag of under $500, they won’t break the budget.
Fast Facts
- Stock Tank Tubs often do not have built in drainage but by drilling a hole in the bottom of the stock tank to connect to the existing drain, you won’t have any issues.
- Installation is fairly straight forward for either a plumber or DIY-ers. Hunker has the following advice: You’ll need to drill a hole in the bottom of the stock tank at the point where the drain will be installed.Fit the drain fitting through the hole and tighten in place with the nut from the bottom side. This compression fitting usually comes with rubber gaskets that are supplemented with caulking to create a waterproof seal at the drain. Connect the drain pipe to the household drain pipe using flexible PVC and a compression fitting. This is usually done in the basement or crawl space of the house.
- You can personalise your tub by changing the colour and finish with paint.
Image source: Houzz
10 replies on “Bathroom on a budget: Stock tank bathtubs”
Will any kind of paint work or is there a specific kind that should be used?
Rubberized paint by Rust-oleum works well and comes in multiple colors.
Any suggestions for prepping and painting the galvanized surface? Also how does the tub clean up (inside). Does the paint provide a good cleanable surface?
For the inside of the Tub or the outside? The inside of the tub should have a finish like Rust-Oleum brand tub and tile refinisher for the inside.
Hi just wondering where we can buy a metal stock trough?
And does someone sell the finished coated and ready to install?
Thanks.
We got ours at McCoys but most hardware or farm and ranch stores.
How do u raise up seating for sitting in trough bathtub?
Hi Debbie here can you give me a contact for these troughs please
I realize the comments here aren’t recent, but I wanted to share for future DIYers.
For those who have asked about paint, here is some professional advice. Using the right kind of primer and making sure that you properly prepare the surface are critical steps for paint longevity. Also, because this “tub” will be in contact with water regularly, you will want to use either a marine grade enamel paint (often available at large hardware stores, comes in a variety of sheen options), or a bathtub enamel kit. Each paint/enamel company will include recommendations for primer and preparation for painting different types of surfaces. You can also watch DIY videos on YouTube of people refinishing cast iron to get a good idea of the process. Best of Luck!
Here is an example of a bathtub enamel kit:
ArmoGlaze Bathtub Refinishing Kit, Easy Pour-on Application, Odorless, White Tub Coating – 2.7 kg, Made in USA. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCW9V1C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6GQQ2ZYSMVQEWP09GZMC
We are building a slab house and want to install a tub like this in our master. Does anyone have any advise on installation in a slab house?