In Portland, where it rains nine months out of the year and a hot soak can feel like therapy, your bathtub is more than just a plumbing fixture—it’s practically a seasonal survival tool. But before you rush out to replace your tub with the sleek clawfoot you saw in that Alberta Street boutique showroom, take a moment. Bathtub replacement is a bigger deal than it looks, and ignoring the details can leave you with more headaches than relaxation. Here are five things every Portland homeowner should consider first.

1. Will It Fit Through Your House (Literally)?

It’s easy to picture your perfect tub…until you realize your 1920s Craftsman has doorways designed for hobbits. Many older Portland homes have quirks—tight corners, narrow hallways, and staircases that seem to bend like a jazz riff. Before you commit to a tub, measure every angle it’ll need to pass through. Otherwise, you’ll be explaining to your neighbors why a shiny new bathtub is parked on your porch like modern art.

2. Daily Routine vs. Dream Routine

Portlanders love their dream-home visions, but practicality still wins. Ask yourself: do you actually use the tub often, or are you mostly a quick-shower-and-go type? If your lifestyle involves early mornings, biking to work, or grabbing a latte before catching the MAX, a simple tub-shower combo might be smarter. Save the oversized soaker for the weekend cabin at Mt. Hood—your everyday bathroom should match your real habits, not just your Pinterest board.

3. Plumbing Reality Check

Every Portlander knows surprises lurk under the surface—potholes, hidden food carts, and yes, old pipes. Many local homes have original plumbing, and replacing a tub can mean reconfiguring drains or upgrading water lines. That charming clawfoot you’ve been eyeing might require more plumbing gymnastics than expected. Always get the pipes checked before shopping, because “hidden plumbing surprise” is rarely on anyone’s renovation wish list.

4. Pick the Right Tub Material for Your Lifestyle

Cast iron tubs last longer than a Stumptown coffee buzz, but they can weigh more than your average food truck. Acrylic and fiberglass are lightweight and budget-friendly, though not as durable. Stone resin looks high-end but may push the budget. In Portland, where sustainability is a badge of honor, some homeowners also consider recycled or eco-friendly materials. The right choice depends on whether your tub is meant for quick rinses, luxurious soaks, or something in between.

5. Don’t Forget the Full Project Scope

Replacing a tub is not just “swap and drop.” Tile, caulking, waterproofing (extra important in our damp climate), and fixture updates are all part of the package. Think of it like ordering a kombucha flight: the extras matter as much as the main event. Budget for the full project, not just the tub, and you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises halfway through.

Final Rinse:

Replacing a bathtub in Portland isn’t just about picking something shiny at the store. It’s about fitting your home’s quirks, your lifestyle, and this city’s very damp reality. If you’re ready to trade bathtub blues for a space that works for you, call Lazy Susan Design & Remodeling at 971-983-7207. They’ll help you think through the details so your next soak is pure relaxation—not a renovation regret.