Install Surround and Fixtures — Gain Access to Underside Plumbing
Part of project
How to Replace a Deck-Mount Garden Tub Faucet · Step 2 of 9
In this video
The new tub surround may come as a solid sheet without holes for the fixtures. Place the faucet's rubber gasket against the surround where the faucet will go, ensure it's level, and trace the hole locations. Use a step drill bit to carefully drill the holes for the faucet and shower head. Fit the surround into place against the walls and secure it by driving screws through the mounting flange into the wall studs and blocking you added earlier. Install the faucet and shower head through the newly drilled holes.
Goal: Install tub surround
- Use the faucet's gasket as a template to mark where to drill the holes in the surround for a perfect fit.
Used in this video
- Drill (brand: DeWalt, Tool Type: Drill) — Drilling holes for fixtures and driving screws.
- Step Drill Bit (Tool Type: Drill, Special Features: Allows for creating multiple hole sizes with a single bit.) — Drilling precise, clean holes of various sizes in the fiberglass surround for the faucet and shower head.
- Level (Tool Type: Level) — Ensuring the faucet is installed level on the surround.
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FAQs
Is this project truly intermediate, and what are the main challenges I might face?
Yes, this project is rated intermediate due to the tight spaces often found under garden tubs, potential corrosion on old fasteners, and the critical need for watertight seals. Expect to spend significant time gaining access, maneuvering tools, and meticulously checking for leaks. Patience and preparation are key.
My old faucet seems stuck or corroded to the deck. What's the best way to loosen it?
Corrosion is common. Apply a penetrating oil like KROIL directly to the nuts under the tub deck and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour. Use a basin wrench for extra leverage in tight spots, as it's designed for these hard-to-reach fittings.
What are the most common reasons for leaks after installing a new deck-mount faucet, and how can I prevent them?
Leaks typically occur from improperly sealed connections or loose fittings. Always apply 2-3 wraps of Teflon tape clockwise to all threaded pipe connections before tightening. For the faucet body, ensure you use a generous but neat amount of plumber's putty around the base to create a watertight seal against the tub deck.
My tub's access panel seems too small or is difficult to open. What should I do if I can't reach the plumbing easily?
Gaining proper access is crucial and sometimes the most challenging part. Use a headlamp for visibility and consider temporarily removing any surrounding trim or cabinet components if necessary. If space is extremely limited, you might need to carefully enlarge the access opening, ensuring it can be neatly covered afterward.
Install Surround and Fixtures — Gain Access to Underside Plumbing
Part of project
How to Replace a Deck-Mount Garden Tub Faucet · Step 2 of 9
In this video
The new tub surround may come as a solid sheet without holes for the fixtures. Place the faucet's rubber gasket against the surround where the faucet will go, ensure it's level, and trace the hole locations. Use a step drill bit to carefully drill the holes for the faucet and shower head. Fit the surround into place against the walls and secure it by driving screws through the mounting flange into the wall studs and blocking you added earlier. Install the faucet and shower head through the newly drilled holes.
Goal: Install tub surround
- Use the faucet's gasket as a template to mark where to drill the holes in the surround for a perfect fit.
Used in this video
- Drill (brand: DeWalt, Tool Type: Drill) — Drilling holes for fixtures and driving screws.
- Step Drill Bit (Tool Type: Drill, Special Features: Allows for creating multiple hole sizes with a single bit.) — Drilling precise, clean holes of various sizes in the fiberglass surround for the faucet and shower head.
- Level (Tool Type: Level) — Ensuring the faucet is installed level on the surround.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this project truly intermediate, and what are the main challenges I might face?
Yes, this project is rated intermediate due to the tight spaces often found under garden tubs, potential corrosion on old fasteners, and the critical need for watertight seals. Expect to spend significant time gaining access, maneuvering tools, and meticulously checking for leaks. Patience and preparation are key.
My old faucet seems stuck or corroded to the deck. What's the best way to loosen it?
Corrosion is common. Apply a penetrating oil like KROIL directly to the nuts under the tub deck and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour. Use a basin wrench for extra leverage in tight spots, as it's designed for these hard-to-reach fittings.
What are the most common reasons for leaks after installing a new deck-mount faucet, and how can I prevent them?
Leaks typically occur from improperly sealed connections or loose fittings. Always apply 2-3 wraps of Teflon tape clockwise to all threaded pipe connections before tightening. For the faucet body, ensure you use a generous but neat amount of plumber's putty around the base to create a watertight seal against the tub deck.
My tub's access panel seems too small or is difficult to open. What should I do if I can't reach the plumbing easily?
Gaining proper access is crucial and sometimes the most challenging part. Use a headlamp for visibility and consider temporarily removing any surrounding trim or cabinet components if necessary. If space is extremely limited, you might need to carefully enlarge the access opening, ensuring it can be neatly covered afterward.