Installing bathtub faucets yourself can potentially save a lot of money over the cost of hiring a plumber to do the job. Although it helps to have experience doing plumbing work, if you are somewhat handy, then following a few simple steps will allow you to put in a bathtub faucet yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Preparation
Shut the water valves off at the main source before you begin working. Prepare your bathtub faucet for installation by figuring out the height where the faucet will be attached to the wall. Do this by placing the tub flush against the wall and holding the bathtub faucet where you want it to go. Mark the area with a pencil so you know where to drill. Use a piece of plywood or a two-by-four on the other side of the wall so you have something to attach the faucet to that will hold it in place.
Drilling
Use a drill to make starter holes in the wall where you will be installing the bathtub faucet. Ensure that you have ample room between the wall studs. Use a pencil to mark where you will be drilling. You must measure the distance between the hot and cold faucet spouts and make two marks accordingly. Drill the two holes, using a level to ensure that they are even.
Attaching the Pipes
Wrap plumber's tape--also known as Teflon tape--around the threads of the faucet to make sure they're sealed tight. Secure the hot and cold water faucets to their respective water pipes with a washer and nut. Secure the faucet fitting to the water supply pipe with a connecting nut.
Assembly
Put the bathroom faucet flush against the wall on the side you will be using and make sure that the holes you drilled line up on the other side of the wall. If they line up like they're supposed to, then tighten the bolts on the back of the faucet on the back side of the wall. Turn the water back on at the main water supply and check the spout and the plumbing for any leaks.
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