DIYers--Removing a shower door?

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SacN

Wed, Apr 25 2012, 5:30 pm

My 5 month old is getting big for her baby tub.
Unfortunately, our regular tub has sliding glass doors on a metal frame, and is half blocked off by the counter. In order to bathe DD, I will have to get in the tub to reach to start/stop the faucets.

Since I don't want to do that, I have the crazy idea to remove the door and frame and just put up a curtain rod. The guy at the hardware store told me I can do it myself, and it will consist of unscrewing the (probably stuck) screws, taking a sharp knife and slicing under the frame to unglue it, then corking (cauking? I dont know the word, and he had an accent) up the holes and using a scary cleaner to get off the glue remnants.

Then I have to figure out how to dispose of the whole thing...

Is it worth the work? Anyone done it? I'm not sure if I should just hire someone.

amother

Wed, Apr 25 2012, 8:08 pm

I did exactly that, for the same reasons you posted- too hard to bathe the kids. It was very easy. Only needed DHs help to get the whole unwieldy door with frame to the curb. and the glue/cement rubbed right off, try a magic eraser. It's easier to use with the curtain and I think it looks better too.

SacN

Thu, Apr 26 2012, 7:26 am

Thanks, a magic eraser is a great idea.
how long did it take you?

skcomputer

Thu, Apr 26 2012, 10:39 am

The instructions you were given are correct. The goo that holds the shower door to the surround is likely silicon. You can use a razor to cut through it, but it is tough material so you might want to see if you can get some sort of holder for the razor to give you leverage.

He was referring to caulk to plug up holes. Get the kind for bathrooms/kitchens and you should be able to get it in a squeeze tube so you don't have to buy a caulk gun. The caulks come in clear, white or almond, so pick the right color for your space. Also, you need to keep the area dry for 24 hours after caulking to let it cure.

If your door is attached to tile, you can also use a razor to scrape off excess silicon or caulk if you are careful not to scratch.

This is a very doable job. Much easier to take a door out than to install in the first place.

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