Having a shower head with a claw-foot tub offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides versatility in bathing options. You can enjoy a traditional, relaxing soak in the tub, or opt for a quick, refreshing shower without the need for additional installations. Secondly, the handheld shower head is particularly useful for rinsing off, cleaning the tub, or washing pets with ease, offering greater control over the direction and flow of water. Lastly, this combination enhances the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom, merging classic elegance with modern functionality, thereby elevating the overall design and user experience.
If your claw-foot tub doesn’t come with a shower head and you are wondering how you can add a shower head to a claw-foot tub, you are at the right place.
Guide to Add a Shower Head to a Claw-Foot Tub
Tools Required
- Adjustable wrench
- Level (18-inch)
- Tubing cutter
- Drill/driver
- Screwdriver
Detailed Instructions
Shut Off Water and Disconnect Supply Lines: Close the tub’s shut-off valves for hot and cold water. Turn on the faucet handles to release pressure and ensure that the water is indeed turned off. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water-supply lines from the back of the tub.
Remove Old Faucet: Unscrew and remove the old faucet from the tub.
Dry-Fit Shower Assembly Parts: Assemble the parts of the new shower assembly without permanently attaching them to check for fit and proper placement.
Apply Plumber’s Putty: Wrap plumber’s putty around the threaded fittings on the backside of the new tub faucet.
Install New Faucet: Secure the new faucet to the tub and tighten the lock nuts with an adjustable wrench. Remove any excess putty.
Connect Water Supply Lines: Attach the hot and cold water supply lines to the new faucet, tightening each compression fitting with the adjustable wrench.
Attach Tub Spout and Shower Riser: Fasten the new tub spout onto the faucet housing and then assemble the shower riser, using Teflon tape for watertight connections.
Level and Secure Shower Riser: Use a level to ensure the shower riser is straight, then mark and secure the wall support in place.
Cut and Attach Wall Support: Utilize the tubing cutter to trim the wall support to the required length and then fasten it to the riser.
Install Shower Curtain Ring: If needed, cut the overhead shower-curtain ring to size and assemble it, connecting one end to the riser and the other to the mounting bracket. Add Wall Support for Curtain Ring: Install additional wall support to keep the shower curtain ring steady.
Attach Showerhead: Fasten the showerhead to the upper end of the riser, using Teflon tape to prevent leaks.
Test Your Installation: Turn on the water and check your work for leaks or issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I DIY add a shower head to a claw-foot tub?
Yes, you can DIY add a shower head to a claw-foot tub. It’s a moderately challenging task that involves assembling various parts and requires some basic plumbing skills. The necessary tools for this project include an adjustable wrench, a level, a tubing cutter, a drill/driver, and a screwdriver. The process takes approximately 2 to 4 hours to complete. While this is a DIY-friendly project, it’s important to be confident in your abilities to handle plumbing tasks to ensure a successful installation.
How much does it cost to add a shower head to a claw-foot tub?
The cost to add a shower head to a claw-foot tub typically ranges from about $200 to $400. This cost can vary depending on the specific materials and tools required for the installation. Additionally, if you opt for more elaborate or high-end fixtures, the cost can increase. Keep in mind that this estimate is for a DIY project; hiring a professional plumber can add to the overall cost.
