How To Change Bathtub Fixtures

How to Change Bathtub Fixtures: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bathtub fixtures, including faucets, showerheads, and drains, can become worn, outdated, or malfunctioning over time. Replacing them is a relatively simple DIY project that can save you money and improve the look and functionality of your bathroom. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you change bathtub fixtures like a pro: ### 1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. This includes: * Adjustable wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * Pliers * Tape measure * Utility knife * Caulk gun * Silicone caulk * New bathtub faucet and showerhead (if desired) * New drain assembly (if desired) ### 2. Turn Off the Water Supply Before you start working on the fixtures, turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This is usually done by closing the valves under the sink or in the basement. If you can't find the valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home. ### 3. Remove the Old Fixtures Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the old fixtures. *

Faucet:

Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet in place. Be careful not to drop the nuts into the drain. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the faucet from the bathtub. *

Showerhead:

Unscrew the showerhead from the shower arm. *

Drain:

Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain in place. Be careful not to drop the nuts into the drain. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the drain from the bathtub. ### 4. Clean the Bathtub Before you install the new fixtures, take a few minutes to clean the bathtub. This will help to ensure that the new fixtures fit properly and last for a long time. Use a mild detergent and a sponge to clean the bathtub, then rinse it thoroughly with water. ### 5. Install the New Drain If you are replacing the drain, now is the time to do it. * Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the drain opening. * Insert the new drain into the opening and tighten the nuts until they are snug. ### 6. Install the New Faucet If you are replacing the faucet, now is the time to do it. * Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the faucet. * Insert the faucet into the opening and tighten the nuts until they are snug. ### 7. Install the New Showerhead If you are replacing the showerhead, now is the time to do it. * Screw the new showerhead onto the shower arm. ### 8. Turn on the Water Supply Once the new fixtures are installed, turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the nuts until the leaks stop. ### 9. Enjoy Your New Bathtub Fixtures Your new bathtub fixtures are now installed and ready to use. Enjoy the updated look and functionality of your bathroom! ### Additional Tips: * If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, you can hire a professional plumber to change the bathtub fixtures for you. * Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts when installing the new fixtures. This can damage the fixtures or the bathtub. * If you are replacing the drain, use a drain that is the same size as the old drain. A drain that is too small will not fit properly and could leak. * If you are replacing the faucet, make sure that the new faucet is compatible with your bathtub. Some faucets are designed for use with specific types of bathtubs. * If you have any questions about changing bathtub fixtures, consult a professional plumber.