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How to replace bath grate or change plug?

Ideally I’d like to change the bath plug to a pop up basin waste plug but there is no thread in the drain and I don’t have access underneath (tiled bath). Is my only option to change grate? If so how do I do it. Is it just putting silicone down and then putting new grate on?

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PlumbMaster-Zee

Hi Peacefularya,

Here's a detailed guide to removing the old system and installing a new pop-up waste system, especially when there's no access from underneath and the old one may need to be cut out.

1. Remove the Existing Grate or Plug: Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry up the existing grate or plug. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bath surface.

2. Cut the Old Waste Pipe (if necessary): If the old waste pipe is glued or sealed, you may need to cut it. Use a hacksaw or a rotary cutting tool to carefully cut around the waste pipe from the top. Make sure to cut it flush with the bath surface. This will leave you with a clear area to work on.

3. Loosen the Old Drain Assembly: Use a drain removal tool or pliers to grip and turn the old drain flange. If it is stuck, apply a few drops of penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try turning it again. A wrench can provide better leverage if necessary.

4. Remove the Old Drain Flange: Once the flange is loose, unscrew it completely and lift it out of the drain hole. If it’s difficult to remove, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it further.

5. Clean the Drain Area: After removing the old drain assembly, thoroughly clean the area. Remove any old silicone, plumber’s putty, or debris to ensure a clean surface for the new installation.

Installing the New Pop-Up Waste System:

1. Using a Compression Waste Fitting:Since you don't have access from underneath, a compression waste fitting can be a suitable solution. These fittings do not require access from below and can be tightened from the top.

2. Apply Silicone Sealant: Apply a generous bead of silicone sealant around the drain hole where the new pop-up waste will be installed. This will create a watertight seal.

3. Insert the New Pop-Up Waste: Insert the new pop-up waste assembly into the drain hole. Ensure it is properly aligned and seated. Press down firmly to ensure a good bond with the silicone.

4. Secure the Pop-Up Waste: Use the compression fitting to secure the pop-up waste. These fittings usually have a rubber gasket that expands and creates a seal when tightened. Tighten the compression fitting from the top using a suitable tool or wrench until it is snug and secure.

5. Connecting to the Drainage Pipe: If you cut the old waste pipe, you’ll need to connect the new pop-up waste to the existing drainage pipe. Use a flexible waste pipe or an extender that can be inserted into the existing pipe and tightened with hose clamps. These are available in most hardware stores and can accommodate slight misalignments.

6. Clean Excess Silicone: Wipe away any excess silicone that may have squeezed out during the installation. Make sure the area around the drain looks clean and neat.

7. Allow Silicone to Cure: Allow the silicone to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before using the bath. This usually takes 24 hours but can vary based on the product used.

8. Test for Leaks: Once the silicone has cured, run some water to check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, your new pop-up waste system should be ready for use.

Additional Tips:

Use a Basin Wrench: If you need to reach any nuts or fittings that are hard to access, a basin wrench can be a useful tool.

Check for Compatibility: Ensure that the new pop-up waste system is compatible with the size and type of your existing plumbing.

If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, it might be best to consult with a professional plumber to ensure the installation is done correctly.

Good luck!

Zee

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Peacefularya. It's sensational to have you join us and many thanks for your questions about replacing a bath waste.

Can you please show us the grate you have removed, including the section that pushes into the drain pipe? We'll need to assess how it connected to recommend a product that you could replace it with. However, I'm unaware of any pop-up plugs that would work with your current pipework.

Mitchell

Peacefularya

Hi Mitchell,

there wasn’t any part that pushed in, I was just hoping there was something out there I could use. It’s just a plain grate. The old one got replaced. I bought a Ezyfix a while back. The old one pulled off so I silconed the Ezyfix down.

since then the Ezyfix has come off (two years). I

removed all the silicon as was partly black. I just wasn’t sure if I could replace it with a pop up plug (probably not as no threads in piping) or whether silicon down the current grate was right. Thinking actually I might need plumber putty.

EricL

Hello @Peacefularya

I'm afraid the only bath waste I'm aware of is the Kinetic 40mm Chrome Bath Waste With Plug. The other pop-up waste units are for basins only and are too long to be used for baths. I'm surprised that you managed to remove what was originally there before you used the EZYFIX 50mm Chrome Retrofit Waste Insert And Plug Sink/Bath Repair Kit.

Generally, a bath waste is secured from the bottom with a large nut that fixes the waste in place making it difficult to remove. As you've noticed the only way to access the bottom of the bath is by removing the tiles on the side of the bath which is an expensive exercise.

Since there is no indication of a leak, it's possible for you to install a new EZYFIX plug and waste. If the budget permits, I suggest getting it fixed professionally by a licensed plumber. That will include tile removal and replumbing the bottom of the bath to code.

It is difficult to tell how your current bath is attached to the waste pipe, but should it fail odds are you'll start to develop a leak. It would be better to have it fixed properly than to continue patching up the plug and waste.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Peacefularya

Thanks Eric,

hopefully grate will do it. Doesn’t seem to be leaking. Pipe (not sure is this what we call the waste) still in place. Only removed old grate. Was just hoping there was a way to change it without removing tiles but looks unlikely 🙁 Oh well new grate (Ezyfix) it will have to be. Hopefully it will stick better this time.

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