Bathtub spouts are not invincible and often need repair or replacement well before you need a new tub unit. A number of problems can occur with your tub spout including a worn-out diverter, which acts as a cut-off to divert the water to the shower; a corroded or cracked spout screw, which can cause water leakage within the wall; or simply needing to replace the faucet for aesthetic reasons. Luckily, you won't need a plumber for this quick fix, which can be done by most anyone regardless of skill level. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Determine which type of tub spout you have. The two basic kinds are slip-fit spouts and screw-on sprouts. Newer homes generally come equipped with a slip-fit spout.
2. Slip fit spouts have a small slot located underneath the spout at the rear near the wall; this contains a small Allen bolt. You will need an Allen wrench (also known as a hex wrench) to remove it, turning clockwise to release the bolt. Pull the tub spout off and bring it to the store to correctly replace it.
3. Replace the slip spout by sliding it over the copper piping and tightening the new Allen bolt.
4. Screw spouts are even easier to remove. Simply insert a large screwdriver into the spout and turn the spout counter-clockwise to loosen. Continue turning until the spout is removed. You may want to replace this with a newer style bathtub spout. If a copper pipe is protruding from the wall with a threaded fitting, just cut off the threading with an inexpensive tubing cutter ($10) and replace with a new slip-on spout.
5. Steel piping may require a replacement screw-on spout and even then it may not exactly fit the new nozzle. If this is the case, unscrew the pipe and replace it with a piece that fits the new spout. Threaded pipes, or nipples, are available for purchase in hardware stores in one-inch increments and generally cost under $2. Wrap both ends with thread tape before screwing it into the wall fitting with a pipe wrench. Seal the area with caulk before screwing on the new spout.
Tags: Allen bolt, before screwing, replace with
