If you’re installing a tub spout with separate knobs or valves, drilling holes is more complicated. That will mean drilling the center line and the holes for the valves. Importantly, if you’re using a one-piece faucet, you have to trace all of the holes together and drill them. However, this will change depending on the faucet because there are no standardized sizes. That usually means a 5/8ths Forstner bit is perfect. In most cases, the bit should be about ¼ to ½ inch larger than the nipple inserted through the wall. Using smaller holes makes it more difficult for the faucet to come loose at a later point in time. In addition, the valve fittings keep the faucet attached to the wall. The more snug the hole, the less chance of leakage. Here, you want to use the smallest possible bit that the faucet fittings will go into. Fit the Faucetĭrill holes for the faucet using a Forstner or Spade bit.
#Bathtub spout crack
Then, when you drill the tile, the weight distributes onto the backing support so that you don’t crack the tile.ĭrill all holes and check that your plumbing fits in. Use screws to attach it to the wall stud. You can do so by cutting a 2×6 to fit between the wall studs at the level you want to drill. If the wall is tile with no backing, add support for when you drill. In addition, make sure you check the backing on the tile. Use a bit appropriate for ceramic or tile for your bathroom if you’re drilling in a tile wall. If they don’t, you can go for a smaller hole. That’s because the ends flange or flare out.
If you’ve bought 3/8ths pipe, you’ll usually need a 5/8ths spade bit. Because most wall studs are 6” wide, you should have no problems.Ĭheck the minimum size your ABS or PVC pipe will fit through. In this case, your wall studs should be at least 2” wide.
#Bathtub spout code
According to the 2012 International Residential Code Book, pages 159 and 160, holes in load bearing wall studs must be no more than 40% of the width and balanced to the center of the beam. If not, you’ll have to buy extra wood for support. Here, it’s also a good idea to check that your wall studs are large enough to drill in. Line them up along the wall to the faucet. Then, measure the exact distance inside the walls. Use a flat screwdriver and a hammer to pry the drywall up and take care not to damage it. Remove the baseboards along all walls that require pipes.
Use a marker that you cannot rub away to trace around the fittings on the back. Measure where the fitting should be, use a level to ensure it’s flat, and mark the spot with blue chalk, pen, or marker. Take your faucet and decide where you want it in the bathroom. Normally, it’s a best practice to find the closest mains pipe to the new faucet and divert the line from there. One from the hot water source and one from the cold-water source.
#Bathtub spout install
You want to install pipes inside the wall to keep them out of sight. Make note of any corners and be sure to buy appropriate elbows for these turns.