How hard is it to change a Tub Spout?
Question:Does it cause damage to the wall?
Answers:
Usually a tub faucet just unscrews (righty tighty, lefty loosy). One you take it off, then you need to check to see if your new faucet will fit on the pipe that comes out of the wall (the nipple). If it is too long or two short, there is no problem -- just get the size you need at any home improvement store. Unscrew the old one (if you cannot unscrew it by hand, I suggest a plumber's wrench, which you can buy for about $8) and then wrap both ends of the new nipple in plumber's tape and screw it back into the wall (and screw the faucet back onto the nipple).
It's easy, they just unscrew. But if it hasn't been changed in a hile, be prepared for the pipe to break!
I used to work at a hardware store, and people were always coming in with that problem when they tried to change showerheads or tub spouts.
It's usually connected by a brass or copper 1/2-in nipple.
There are two different types of spouts. If you look under the spout where it meets the wall you may see a slot. If so, there is a small allen screw inside the slot that holds the spout on. Remove the screw and "twist and pull" the spout off. If no slot, it screws on. Put a wrench or channel-lock pliers on the spout up close to the wall. Support the end of the spout with your other hand to prevent twisting the pipe off. Turn counter-clockwise to unscrew it. If it is screwed on, get a roll of teflon tape for the threads before reassmbling the new spout. With either spout there may be a seal of caulk around the it to prevent leaks. You will need to remove the caulk. You can carefully cut it with a utility knife.
All these suggestions are valid. Just remember to tighten the new one slowly, or you may bypass the optimum position and end up with a spout pointing in another direction that 90 degrees. That's where the Teflon tape is a help.
More Related Questions & Answers...