If you've ever tried to remove a tub spout that's stuck, you know it can be a frustrating experience. But don't worry, we're here to help. In this blog post, we'll show you how to remove a tub spout that's stuck in just a few easy steps. So whether your tub spout is old and corroded or just plain stubborn, we've got you covered. So let's get started!
A tub spout is one of the plumbing fittings used to divert water from a pipe coming into the building, usually under the floor or behind the wall, to a bathtub or shower.
The spout may be a fixed fitting that is integral with the bathtub or shower base, or it may be a detachable handheld unit. The spout directs water onto and sometimes into the body, and many have an adjustable spray head. Some tub spouts are fitted with an aerator to break up the stream of water and create a more bubbly experience.
5 Main Types of Bathtub Spouts
Diverter bathtub spouts: These types of tub spouts have a diverter valve that controls the water flow. When you want to use the shower, you simply pull up on the diverter lever and the water will flow into the shower head.
Non-diverter bathtub spouts: These tub spouts do not have a diverter valve, so the water will only flow out of the tub spout. If you want to use the shower, you will need to install a separate shower head.
Slip-on bathtub spouts: These tub spouts are very easy to install - you simply slip them onto the end of your shower arm and tighten the screw.
Threaded bathtub spouts: These tub spouts have threads on the end that screw onto the shower arm.
Bathtub spouts with a brass adapter: Some tubs come with a threaded spout but no shower arm. If this is the case, you can purchase a brass adapter that will convert the threaded spout into a slip-on spout. This allows you to use a regular slip-on shower head on your tub.
10 Reasons for Removing Tub Spout
There are many reasons for why you might want to remove your tub spout. Here are 10 reasons why removing your tub spout might be the best decision for you and your home:
- If your tub spout is leaking, it can cause significant water damage to your bathroom and home.
- A leaking tub spout can also lead to a decrease in your home's energy efficiency, as water that leaks from the spout can cause your water heater to work harder and use more energy.
- If your tub spout is old or outdated, it might be time for an upgrade. Removing an old tub spout can give your bathroom a fresh, new look.
- Tub spouts can become corroded over time, which can lead to problems with water pressure and flow. Removing a corroded tub spout can improve your water pressure and help your bathroom fixtures last longer.
- If you are remodeling your bathroom, removing your tub spout is a necessary part of the process.
- Some tub spouts are difficult to clean, and can become covered in soap scum or mildew. Removing a difficult-to-clean tub spout can help keep your bathroom clean and fresh.
- If your tub spout is damaged, it might need to be replaced anyway. Removing a damaged tub spout before it causes further damage can save you time and money in the long run.
- If your tub spout is installed improperly, it can be a safety hazard. Removing an improperly installed tub spout can help ensure that you and your family are safe when using the bathtub.
- Replacing a tub spout is a relatively easy do-it-yourself project. If you are handy, removing and replacing your own tub spout can save you money on installation costs.
- Finally, sometimes you just need a change! Removing your old tub spout and installing a new one can give your bathroom a whole new look and feel. Whether you're looking to update your bathroom's style or you need to fix a leak or other problem, removing your tub spout is usually the best solution.
What Will You Need to Remove a Tub Spout?
The tools and accessories that you would need to remove a tub spout are given below:
- Screwdriver
- Razor scraper
- Mini tubing cutter
- Steel wool
- Plumbing grease
- Slip-connection tub spout
Watch the video before you begin removing and replacing tub spouts:
How to Remove a Tub Spout? [4 Steps]
Step-1: Checking the Faucet
Before you begin to remove a tub spout, you must make sure your faucet hasn't sprung a leak, which is easy to do by looking at the lower part of it. Feel and search around the sink to find the screw you need to connect the faucet. If your faucet doesn't have a removable washer, it's probably kept on with faucet washers. There is a flashlight in the toolkit, just if you can't see where the screw is located.
Related: How to Remove Faucet Handle without Screws
Step-2: Preparing the Working Area
Before you removing tub spout with shower attachment, you must set up our workspace to minimize contamination. Wrap a towel around the basin, and pull it tight. This preventive measure will prevent odors from impregnating but avoid future leaks.
If you need to protect the water supply, just shut off the water. In this way, you can protect against water leaking from tub spout when shower is off.
Switch the control valve to raise the pressure in the system. As long as the lock is in place, you can remove the spout without fearing anything else getting in the way.
Step-3: Arrange the necessary tools
Once you have the new fixture selected, get all the pieces you need to make sure you don't need to return to the store several times to complete the installation. Also, verify that the taps, sprinklers, and sprinkler pipes are compatible with the new fittings. It's not a good time to be opting for the easily replaceable versatile lines; go for auto-detached lines. An added safety feature that detects water leakage at the base of the plumbing line is included to save both water and money.
Step-4: Pulling the Tub Spout Out
Finally, for removing a tub spout, shut off the water source, and then turn the retaining nut clockwise by hand. For removing old tub spout, you must turn the cam in a clockwise direction. As long as the faucet doesn't leak: Continue doing it until it comes loose.
However, if it resists the pull, you might have to apply more pressure and turn it slightly to loosen it. When the button is released, make sure to use sufficient force to remove it, but not so much that you can harm the surface.
It still seems like the faucet will remain stuck even after attempting these approaches. And if that is the case, you should try the following procedure. It sounds unconventional, but it might save you from the irritating problem of a stuck tub spout.
Related: How to Repair PVC Pipe in Tight Spaces?
Tub Spout Height:
How High Should a Tub Spout Be?
The tub spout adapter should be set at four inches over the surface of the water. The best quality code states that there should be two inches of air space above the running bath overflowing onto the concrete.
Pro-Tip: Vinegar for Tub Spout Calcification
If you have hard water, it's likely that your tub spout has calcium buildup. This can be unsightly and tough to clean. But there's an easy remedy - vinegar! Just follow these simple steps:
- Fill a small bowl with white vinegar.
- Place a towel over the bowl and secure it with a rubber band.
- Let the vinegar soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove the towel and bowl, and scrub the tub spout with a toothbrush.
- Rinse the tub spout with water and dry it with a clean towel.
That's all there is to it! By following these simple steps, you can remove calcium buildup from your tub spout and have it looking its best.
Video: How to clean calcified minerals using vinegar
Final Words
If you’re trying to remove a stuck tub spout, the methods we outlined above should help. Keep in mind that these are general tips and may not work for every situation – if they don’t seem to be working, it might be time to call in a professional. Remember to take your time and be patient; with a little bit of elbow grease, you should be able to get that pesky spout off without any trouble.