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How to Install a Clawfoot Tub Faucet

Installing a clawfoot tub faucet is mostly about planning: the faucet, its supply lines and the drain all have to line up with the tub and your plumbing. Here's what's involved, so you can order the right parts and brief your plumber.

1. Know your mount and centers

Decide whether the faucet sits on the rim (deck mount, usually 7" centers), goes through the tub wall (usually 3 3/8"), or comes out of the bathroom wall. How to choose a clawfoot tub faucet explains each one, and variable center faucets fit holes that measure in between.

2. Gather the parts

Want it in one box? The faucet and over-the-rim supply set pairs a 7" center faucet with 24" supplies.

3. The order of work

  • Rough in the supply lines and drain to suit the tub's final position, before the finished floor goes down.
  • Set the tub and install the drain and overflow.
  • Mount the faucet to the tub or wall with its couplers.
  • Connect the supply lines and shutoffs, then the handshower if your faucet has one.
  • Turn the water on slowly, run the faucet, and check every joint for leaks.

4. Bring in a plumber

Follow the installation instructions for your model, and have a licensed plumber make the connections, especially any work inside walls or under floors.

Browse tub faucets and plumbing parts, or ask us which parts fit your tub.

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