Keeping the original tub is definitely a statement, but I always wonder about the long-term cost-benefit. Did you factor in the refinishing versus just replacing with a modern acrylic? Sometimes the labor and hallway repairs can add up fast. And yeah, those old cloth wires... I’ve seen insurance premiums jump because of them. Curious if you ran into any code issues during your remodel?
I get where you’re coming from about the tub. I went back and forth on that exact question—refinish or rip it out and go acrylic. In the end, I kept the original cast iron because it’s just built better than anything new I could afford. The refinishing cost me about $500, which felt steep at first, but when I priced out a new tub plus demo, disposal, and patching up the tile and walls, it was way more. Plus, dragging a new tub up my 1920s staircase? No thanks.
Labor is where it really adds up, especially if you’re not doing most of it yourself. I did some demo and painting to save cash, but plumbing and electrical were non-negotiable for me. Speaking of wires—yeah, those old cloth ones are a nightmare. My electrician found some behind the bathroom wall and basically told me insurance would be a problem if I didn’t upgrade. That added about $1,200 to the bill, but honestly, peace of mind is worth it.
As for code issues, nothing major except GFCI outlets and making sure the venting was up to snuff. The inspector was more concerned about the wiring than anything else. If you’re in an older house, expect surprises behind every wall. My “budget” remodel ended up around $9k all-in, mostly because of hidden problems like that wiring.
If you’re weighing cost vs. long-term value, I’d say keep the tub if it’s solid and you like the look. Just don’t skimp on the stuff behind the walls—nobody sees it, but it’ll bite you later if you ignore it.
Hanging onto that cast iron tub was a solid call—those things are tanks, and honestly, they just feel more substantial than the new stuff. The wiring surprises are always the worst part of old houses... but you’re right, peace of mind is worth every penny. It’s wild how fast “just a quick update” turns into a full-on project, but it sounds like you handled it smartly.
Keeping that old cast iron tub is a win in my book—those things can outlast just about anything else you put in. I’ve seen people regret swapping them out for the lighter stuff, honestly. And yeah, old house wiring is always a can of worms... I always tell folks, budget for the unexpected, because you’ll find something behind those walls. You did right by tackling the wiring while you had things open—no sense putting off the headaches. Peace of mind’s worth a lot more than saving a few bucks up front.
Couldn’t agree more about keeping the cast iron tub. Those things are tanks—my neighbor swapped his out for an acrylic one and it’s already got scratches and stains after just a couple years. And yeah, rewiring is never fun, but you’ll sleep better knowing it’s done right. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves a ton of hassle down the road.
