Proper measurement of the installation spacing for a bathtub faucet is very important. Purchasing mismatched fixtures makes installation impossible and leads to modifications or simply returning the product.
In the following article, we present a detailed guide on how to measure the installation spacing for a bathtub faucet.
Is the installation spacing of a bathtub faucet always the same?
If the answer to the above question were affirmative, we wouldn’t need to write this guide. The installation spacing of a bathtub faucet can vary depending on its size, purpose, and even the manufacturer. When buying a bathtub faucet, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the markings placed on the packaging.
The standard installation spacing for a bathtub faucet is 150 mm, however, in the case of faucets with a thermostat, it can be 180 mm, and in wall-mounted faucets, we can encounter an adjustable spacing, which is a very convenient solution.
Measuring the installation spacing step by step
If you don’t know how to measure the installation spacing for a bathtub faucet, we have a guide for you in the form of a few simple steps. The first step will be preparation:
- tools – a caliper, pencil, and paper to note the measurement results;
- documentation – in the installation instructions for the faucet, you will find information regarding the spacing.
It’s worth taking measurements before purchasing the faucet. In this case, you can check the dimensions of the faucet and its spacing online or consult with a bathroom fixture store by phone.
On mexen.pl, you will find the specifications of each product – including data regarding the spacing. Just click on the selected bathtub and shower faucets.
Measuring the faucet spacing
Proper measurement of the installation spacing for a bathtub faucet is very important for its correct installation, which will translate to the effective operation of the fixture, hence precision must be maintained during the process.
- Locate the mounting points - in classic bathtub faucets, these are usually two holes in the wall from which the water supply pipes are run; in the case of wall-mounted faucets, take measurements along the pipes protruding from the wall.
- Choose a reference point - select the center of one of the holes as a reference point and place the start of the caliper there.
- Measure the distance accurately - stretch the caliper to the second hole, exactly to its center.
- Note the result - record the measured distance between the holes in millimeters.
In the case of a freestanding faucet, the task is even easier – just measure the distances between the holes located at the edge of the bathtub. As you can see, measuring the faucet spacing requires just a little patience.
What other faucet spacings can be found?
As we mentioned earlier, the standard spacing for a bathtub faucet is 150 mm, which means that most manufacturers of bathroom fixtures offer bathtub and shower faucets designed for installation on pipes whose holes are 15 cm apart. However, during a bathroom renovation, you might also encounter other distances.
- When installing a bathtub faucet in older buildings, you might find a spacing of just 100 mm.
- In some countries, the standard is 120 mm – keep that in mind when purchasing a bathtub faucet from abroad.
- 180 mm – such spacing can be found in the case of particularly large bathtub faucets.
- Other spacings for bathtub faucets – for unconventional models or custom orders, the spacing may be tailored to a specific faucet model.
What to pay attention to when choosing a faucet to fit the installation?
When choosing a bathtub and shower faucet, it’s worth paying attention to a few other aspects aside from its spacing. One of them could be the distance between the faucet and the edge of the bathtub. It should be approximately 10-18 cm, and additionally, the faucet should be at least 60 cm above the floor surface. This will ensure comfort in its use.
Of course, these dimensions apply to a classic wall-mounted faucet, not to a faucet mounted on the edge of the bathtub or a freestanding faucet installed on the floor.
When selecting a new faucet for your bathroom, you should also consider its functionality and durability. If you want to achieve the right aesthetic effect, also pay attention to the size and style of the faucet, which should match the interior of the bathroom.
Appropriate installation spacing for a bathtub faucet – summary
Before you decide to purchase a new bathtub faucet for your bathroom, make sure to check the distances between the water supply holes. Improperly selected faucet spacing will mean you will be forced to return the faucet to the store.
Of course, it is also possible to remodel the bathroom for a specific faucet spacing, but this is a significantly more costly solution.
Information about the faucet holes’ spacing is easiest to find on the packaging or on the manufacturer’s website.