How Do You Change a Tub Faucet to a Shower?
Upgrading your bathroom can be both exciting and rewarding, especially when it involves enhancing your shower experience. One common improvement that many homeowners consider is changing a tub faucet to a shower setup. Whether you’re aiming for a more versatile bathing option or simply want to modernize your space, understanding the basics of this transformation is essential before diving in.
Converting a tub faucet to a shower involves more than just swapping out fixtures; it requires a thoughtful approach to plumbing, water flow, and compatibility with your existing bathroom layout. This process can breathe new life into an old tub, making your daily routine more convenient and enjoyable. While it may seem daunting at first, with the right guidance and preparation, it’s a manageable project that can save you time and money compared to a full bathroom remodel.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations and general steps involved in this upgrade, helping you gain the confidence to tackle the job or communicate effectively with a professional plumber. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply curious about the process, understanding how to change a tub faucet to a shower is the first step toward transforming your bathroom into a more functional and stylish space.
Removing the Existing Tub Faucet
Begin by shutting off the water supply to the bathtub to avoid any leaks or water damage during the replacement process. This is typically done at the main water valve or the local shutoff valves for the bathroom. Open the tub faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes.
Next, use a wrench or adjustable pliers to carefully loosen and remove the existing tub spout. Most tub faucets are either threaded or slip-on types. For threaded faucets, turn the spout counterclockwise to unscrew it from the pipe. For slip-on types, there is usually a set screw underneath the spout; loosen this screw and gently pull the spout away from the wall.
Inspect the exposed pipe for any corrosion or damage. Clean the pipe threads with a wire brush to ensure a smooth installation of the new fixture. If the pipe is damaged or corroded, it may require replacement or repair before proceeding.
Installing the Shower Diverter Valve
A shower diverter valve is essential for switching water flow between the tub spout and the showerhead. The installation process depends on whether your existing plumbing has a diverter or if you need to add one.
If your current tub spout does not have a built-in diverter, consider installing a three-valve diverter or a diverter integrated with the tub faucet.
Steps for installing a diverter valve:
- Turn off the water supply.
- Remove the existing tub spout as described previously.
- Attach the diverter valve to the water supply pipe, ensuring a tight and secure fit.
- Connect the tub spout to the diverter outlet designated for tub filling.
- Connect the shower arm and head to the diverter outlet designated for the shower.
Use Teflon tape on threaded joints to prevent leaks, wrapping the tape clockwise around the threads before connecting components.
Connecting the Shower Arm and Head
After installing the diverter, the next step is to attach the shower arm and showerhead.
- Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the shower arm to ensure a watertight seal.
- Screw the shower arm into the plumbing outlet extending from the wall, turning it clockwise until snug.
- Attach the showerhead onto the opposite end of the shower arm, also using Teflon tape on the threads before installation.
- Tighten the showerhead by hand and then use a wrench to give it an additional quarter turn, taking care not to overtighten and damage the fixture.
Adjust the angle of the showerhead as needed to ensure comfortable water flow direction.
Testing and Adjusting the New Setup
Once all components are installed, turn the water supply back on and test the system:
- Check for leaks at all connections, including the tub spout, diverter valve, shower arm, and showerhead.
- Operate the diverter to ensure water switches cleanly between the tub faucet and showerhead.
- Observe water pressure and temperature control, adjusting the faucet handles or cartridge as necessary for optimal performance.
If leaks occur, tighten the fittings or add more Teflon tape. If water flow is weak, verify that the showerhead is not clogged or blocked.
| Step | Key Actions | Tools/Materials Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Remove Tub Faucet | Turn off water, unscrew or loosen spout, clean pipe | Adjustable wrench, pliers, wire brush |
| Install Diverter Valve | Attach diverter to pipe, connect tub spout and shower arm | Diverter valve, Teflon tape, wrench |
| Attach Shower Arm & Head | Wrap threads, screw in arm, attach showerhead | Shower arm, showerhead, Teflon tape, wrench |
| Test & Adjust | Check for leaks, test diverter, adjust water flow | Bucket or towels (for leaks), wrench |
Understanding the Components of a Tub Faucet and Shower Diverter
Before initiating the process of changing a tub faucet to a shower setup, it is essential to understand the key components involved. Typically, a tub faucet assembly includes:
- Tub Spout: The fixture from which water flows into the bathtub.
- Shower Diverter: A valve or mechanism that redirects water from the tub spout to the showerhead.
- Showerhead: The outlet fixture that disperses water as a spray for showering.
- Valve Body: The internal plumbing mechanism that controls water flow and temperature.
Most standard tub faucets have an integrated diverter that can be activated by pulling up a lever or knob on the spout. If the existing tub faucet does not have a diverter, or if you want to upgrade the shower functionality, modifications or replacements will be necessary.
Tools and Materials Required for Conversion
Having the right tools and materials ensures a smooth and professional installation. Below is a list of essential items:
| Category | Item | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Tools | Adjustable wrench | Loosening and tightening nuts |
| Tools | Pipe wrench | Removing old spout or fittings |
| Tools | Phillips and flathead screwdrivers | Removing screws from fixtures |
| Tools | Teflon tape (plumber’s tape) | Sealing threaded connections |
| Materials | Shower diverter spout or diverter valve | Redirects water to the showerhead |
| Materials | Shower arm and showerhead | Fixture for shower spray |
| Materials | Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant | Sealing fixture edges to prevent leaks |
Step-by-Step Process to Replace a Tub Faucet with a Shower Diverter
The following procedure outlines how to convert a standard tub faucet into a shower setup by replacing or installing a diverter spout and adding a showerhead:
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the main water valve and shut off the water to prevent leaks and water damage during the installation.
- Remove the Existing Tub Spout:
- If the spout is threaded, turn it counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench to remove.
- If it is a slip-on type, it may have a set screw underneath that needs loosening before sliding off.
- Install the Shower Arm and Showerhead:
- Wrap the threads of the shower arm with Teflon tape to ensure a watertight seal.
- Thread the shower arm into the plumbing stub-out inside the wall, tightening it securely with a wrench.
- Attach the showerhead to the arm, again using Teflon tape on the threads.
- Install a Diverter Tub Spout:
- Choose a tub spout with a built-in diverter to redirect water to the showerhead.
- Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the pipe nipple and screw on the new spout, tightening firmly but not over-tightening.
- Check for Leaks and Proper Operation:
- Turn on the main water supply.
- Test the faucet by running water and activating the diverter to verify water flows through both the tub spout and the showerhead.
- Inspect all connections for leaks and tighten or reseal as necessary.
Alternative Option: Installing a Separate Diverter Valve
In cases where the tub spout does not support a diverter or if you want enhanced control, installing a separate three-valve diverter valve is an option. This valve is typically installed behind the wall and allows the user to divert water from the tub spout to the showerhead independently.
| Step |
|---|