Faucet Installation: What You Should Know

By: Kaye Fretz

Faucet installation is not as hard as you think. In fact, many home improvement sites and resources simply recommend that you do it yourself. Do remember though that every DIY project requires some basic knowledge. You also need to have the ability to follow instruction to the letter. Here are some things you should know about installing faucets.

Faucet Mounting

Faucets are not uniformly made. There are many different faucet types for you to choose from before you can install. You would have to determine for example if you would prefer disc, compression, cartridge or a ball type faucet. One other crucial installation related concern is choosing between a top or bottom mounted faucet.

Bottom Mount

Bottom mounted types are held in position from under the sink. From there, you only have to manually thread the mounting nuts to the tailpiece and install the washers. Next, put the escutcheons in place with a little plumber's putty. You can then position the handles on top.

Top Mount

Faucet installation with this type may seem easier for some to manage. Many new models come with their own gaskets so they can be tightly put in place. If your faucet doesn't have its own gasket, make sure you apply the right amount of plumber's putty. Once the putty is in place, put the faucet head on. From the bottom, install the mounting nuts and washers to the tailpiece.

Supply Lines

Your faucet is now in place. All that is left to do is to connect the faucet to the water supply lines. Connect the appropriate hot and cold lines to the right shut off valves. You can use pipe tape to make sure that you have a tight connection. Check all the connections again before you give a go signal to turn on the water supply.

Remember that the real key to installing faucets is the instructions. Some faucet models may already include manual instructions for installation. If they do not, you can easily locate the instructions online. Do make sure though that the instructions you are following are perfectly matched to your type of faucet and connection.

Tips on Faucets

There seems to be no big deal to installing your own faucet. Sometimes the real challenge is in going through the pre installation concerns. You have to consider for example your faucet design based on whether you will be placing it on your kitchen sink or in the bathroom. Some designs are simply meant for one or the other.

Another faucet related consideration would be the space. A small kitchen sink and a small bathroom would look better with small faucets. You could also opt for wall mounted faucets to maximize the use of your small space.

Handles are another factor to consider. Two handle faucets are popular because they make mixing water easier and more accurate. Single handle faucets however are quick and easy to use.

Anyone can handle faucet installation. You just have to make sure that you have taken care of all your faucet pre installation concerns.