Replace Menards Bathtub Drain: Easy DIY Guide!

Replacing Your Menards Bathtub Drain: A Simple DIY Guide

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to replace your existing bathtub drain, focusing on parts you can find at Menards. We’ll cover everything from identifying the right drain to the actual replacement process, ensuring a leak-free seal.

Understanding Your Menards Bathtub Drain Options

Before you start, knowing the types of bathtub drains available at Menards is crucial. This will help you choose the best replacement for your current setup.

Identifying Your Current Drain Type

Knowing the drain type you currently have is essential. Common types include:

• Lift-and-Turn: This drain has a small lever you lift and turn to open and close the drain.
• Pop-Up: This drain has a stopper that you push down on to close and push again to open. These can sometimes become corroded.
• Toe-Touch: Similar to pop-up, but operated with your toe.
• Trip-Lever: This drain has a lever (usually near the overflow plate) that operates a plunger that moves up and down to block the drain.
• Push-and-Pull: Similar to lift-and-turn, these require a bit of pressure to secure and release.

Carefully examine your existing drain to determine its type. This will ensure you select a compatible replacement "menards bathtub drain".

Choosing the Right Replacement from Menards

Menards typically carries a variety of bathtub drains compatible with different plumbing configurations. Consider the following:

• Material: Options include brass, stainless steel, and plastic. Brass is durable, but more expensive. Stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance. Plastic is the most affordable, but may not be as durable.
• Finish: Match the finish to your other bathroom fixtures (e.g., chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze). Menards provides a good selection.
• Size: Bathtub drain sizes are typically standardized, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the existing drain’s diameter.
• Type: Ensure the replacement drain mechanism (lift-and-turn, pop-up, etc.) is compatible with your existing plumbing and your personal preference.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather these materials before you begin! Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

• New Menards Bathtub Drain: Make sure you’ve chosen the correct type and finish.
• Adjustable Wrench: Essential for loosening and tightening nuts.
• Channel-Lock Pliers: Helpful for gripping and maneuvering parts.
• Screwdriver (Flathead and Phillips): For removing the overflow plate and possibly adjusting drain components.
• Putty Knife or Scraper: For removing old plumber’s putty.
• Plumber’s Putty: To create a watertight seal.
• Old Towels or Rags: To protect the tub surface and clean up spills.
• Penetrating Oil (e.g., WD-40): To help loosen stubborn nuts and bolts.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Gloves: To protect your hands.
• Bathtub Drain Removal Tool (Optional): These specialized tools can make removing stubborn drains easier. Menards usually carries these.
• Flashlight: Helps to see under the tub.

Removing the Old "Menards Bathtub Drain"

This section details the steps to safely and effectively remove your existing "menards bathtub drain".

1. Prepare the Area: Place old towels or rags in the bottom of the tub to protect the surface from scratches.
2. Loosen the Overflow Plate: Using a screwdriver, remove the screws holding the overflow plate in place. This usually reveals a connecting rod that operates the drain stopper.
3. Remove the Stopper: Depending on the drain type:
   • Lift-and-Turn: Simply lift the stopper out after loosening the set screw.
   • Pop-Up/Toe-Touch: Often these lift straight out. Some require a slight turn to release.
   • Trip-Lever: Disconnect the linkage from the overflow drain.
4. Loosen the Drain Nut: Apply penetrating oil to the drain nut located underneath the tub. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
5. Remove the Old Drain:
   • Using a Bathtub Drain Removal Tool: Insert the tool into the drain opening and turn counterclockwise to loosen the drain body from above. Use an adjustable wrench to hold the tool in place.
   • Without a Bathtub Drain Removal Tool: Use channel-lock pliers to grip the drain body underneath the tub while using an adjustable wrench to turn the nut on the underside counterclockwise. This can be tricky, so be patient.
6. Clean the Drain Opening: Thoroughly clean the drain opening with a putty knife or scraper to remove all traces of old plumber’s putty. A clean surface is crucial for a proper seal.

Installing the New "Menards Bathtub Drain"

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a watertight seal.

1. Apply Plumber’s Putty: Roll a generous rope of plumber’s putty and place it around the underside of the new drain flange (the part that sits inside the tub).
2. Insert the New Drain: Carefully insert the new drain into the drain opening from above.
3. Attach the Drain Nut: From underneath the tub, slide the rubber or plastic washer (if included), followed by the drain nut, onto the drain tailpiece.
4. Tighten the Drain Nut: Hand-tighten the drain nut first, then use an adjustable wrench to tighten it further. Avoid overtightening, as this can crack the drain fitting. Tighten until the plumber’s putty is slightly squeezed out.
5. Reinstall the Overflow Plate: Reconnect the overflow linkage and reinstall the overflow plate with its screws. Ensure the stopper moves freely.
6. Test for Leaks: Plug the drain and fill the tub with a few inches of water. Check for leaks around the drain flange from inside the tub and around the drain nut from underneath. If you see any leaks, carefully tighten the drain nut a bit more. If leaking persists, remove the drain, reapply plumber’s putty, and reinstall.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Stubborn Drain Nut: Use more penetrating oil and allow it more time to work. If needed, gently heat the nut with a heat gun (carefully!) to help loosen it.
• Leaking Drain: Ensure you’ve used enough plumber’s putty and that the drain nut is sufficiently tight.
• Stopper Not Working Correctly: Adjust the linkage on the overflow plate. Consult the instructions that came with your new "menards bathtub drain" for specific adjustment instructions.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully replace your "menards bathtub drain" yourself!

So, feeling ready to tackle that menards bathtub drain? Remember to take your time and follow the steps, and you’ll be enjoying a leak-free bath in no time!