DIY Bathroom Faucet Installation Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

Mourad Hebara
September 05, 2023
15 min read
Double handle faucet

Assessing Plumbing Readiness

Before purchasing and installing your faucet, inspect the existing plumbing setup. This will help determine compatibility or any needed upgrades. Installing a new bathroom faucet can update the look of your bathroom and improve functionality. With some basic plumbing knowledge and tools, you can tackle this project yourself and save on hiring a professional. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

Factors to Consider

Pro Tip: Determining the number of holes in your sink is crucial when selecting a new faucet. It ensures a proper fit and compatibility, preventing any installation challenges. Before purchasing a faucet, always consider the existing hole configuration in your sink.
  • Number of sink holes - 1, 3, or 4 widespread
  • Current faucet type
  • Valve types - cartridge, compression, ball, ceramic disk
  • Condition of supply lines and valves

Faucet finishes come in various colors and materials like chrome, brass, bronze, nickel, black, white, and matte. Handles and accessories should coordinate with the faucet finish. When choosing a bathroom faucet, consider your sink type, décor style, finish, and budget. Prices range from $50 - $500+

Check Sink Holes

Bathroom sinks have either one central hole, three holes, or widespread holes for faucet and accessories. Vessel sinks on top of counters just have one hole, so a vessel-style faucet is required.

  • One hole - can fit single-handle or center set faucets
  • Three holes - for 4" center set faucets
  • Widespread - holes 4" apart for separate spout and handles

Identify Valve Types

Under the sink, locate the hot and cold water supply valves and lines running to the faucet.

Turn valves off and on to inspect functionality. Common types are:

  • Cartridge valves - compressed rubber seal, single handle
  • Compression valves - threaded stem seals down with handle
  • Ball valves - rotating ball-shaped unit with hole seals flow
  • Ceramic disk valves - smooth rotating ceramic cylinders

Introduction

Preparing Your Bathroom for Faucet Installation

Before you dive into the actual faucet installation, there are essential preparations to be made. These steps ensure a smooth installation process and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Gather Your Tools and Materials

The first step in any DIY project is to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here's a list of items you'll need for a successful bathroom faucet installation:

1. Basics Cut Resistant Work Gloves

  • These cut-resistant work gloves are a must-have for safety during faucet installation. They provide excellent hand protection while handling tools and materials.

2. Single Hole Bathroom Faucet

  • Feguring out how many whole on the sing will matter when u choosing the new faucet

Single Hole Bathroom Faucet

  • The single-hole bathroom faucet is a sleek and space-saving choice for modern bathrooms. It offers easy installation and a contemporary design that complements various sink styles.

3. Double Bathroom Faucet handles

Double Bathroom Faucet Set
  • For a timeless and sophisticated appearance, the double bathroom faucet set is an excellent choice. It features two separate handles, allowing you precise control over both hot and cold water, which is particularly advantageous for larger sinks. Keep in mind that this faucet type is designed for sinks with two or three holes, not single-hole installations.
A Double Handle Bathroom Faucet

A Double Handle Bathroom Faucet features two separate handles—one for hot water and one for cold water. This design allows you to precisely control the water temperature by adjusting each handle independently. To use, simply turn the handles to achieve the desired mix of hot and cold water, providing flexibility and comfort for your daily routines. 4. Large Angle Sink Aerator With 2 Mode Splash mode for Kitchen & Bathroom

Some people to add further enhance your faucet's capabilities, consider adding an extension like the large angle sink aerator. This accessory can be easily placed on the faucet and provides alternative installation methods. It's worth noting that this installation is typically done after the faucet has been installed. The aerator offers two modes, including a convenient splash mode, catering to the needs of both kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Pro tips: the shot valves can be rusty, take it easy when you process this step. Sometime if it rusty u can use the DW 40 always let the faucet running on the tap of your sink while you turning the two valves off. If the water stoop it mean the valves are shotted all the way down and it next steps.

5. Angle Stop Valve Sink Stainless Steel

  • When you're in the process of installing a faucet with valves positioned significantly below the sink, the stainless steel angle stop valve becomes indispensable. It not only guarantees precise water control but also offers enduring performance. It's important to note that there are two types of valves, each dedicated to shutting down either the cold or hot water supply. Familiarizing yourself with these valves and their operation is essential for a successful faucet installation.
Stop Valve Sink Stainless steel

Stop Valve Sink Stainless steel

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Stop Valve Sink Stainless steel

Safety should always come first in any DIY plumbing project. To prevent any unwanted surprises, shut off the water supply to your bathroom. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they're fully closed. If your sink doesn't have individual shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply for your entire home.

Pro Tip: While closing the shut-off valves beneath the sink, leave the faucet tap running. This simple trick allows you to monitor when the water flow ceases at the faucet. When you notice the water has completely stopped flowing from the tap, it's a clear indicator that the shut-off valves have successfully cut off the water supply to the faucet. This not only ensures a smoother faucet removal process but also prevents any accidental water spillage during the operation.
Shot valve water confection supply

2. Remove the Old Faucet

  • Disconnect the water supply lines from the old faucet using an adjustable wrench. Be prepared for a bit of water to drip out, so keep a bucket and some towels handy.
  • It depend to the type you have, if it single handle on single whole sink is removing the part using Stubby ADJUSTBLE RANCH or Plumbing Wrench Faucet Use a pipe wrench or adjustable pliers to loosen and remove the nuts securing the faucet to the sink.
remove the nuts securing the faucet to the sink.

  • Once all the fasteners are removed, gently lift the old faucet out of the sink.
Pro Tip: Before installing your new faucet, take a moment to clean all the holes and the shut-off valves thoroughly. DW 40 works wonders for this task. Apply WD-40 to a clean cloth or a soft-bristle brush, and gently scrub the holes and the valve components. This will help remove any accumulated dirt and rust, ensuring a clean and smooth surface for your faucet installation. It's a small but essential step that can contribute to the longevity and performance of your plumbing fixtures.
Clean Sink

Securing Single or Double-Handled Faucet to the Sink:

  1. Handle Type: Whether your faucet has a single handle or double handles, the installation process remains quite similar.
  2. Faucet Size: The size of the faucet's base or mounting hole depends on the design of the sink. Some sinks have a single hole for small faucets, while others may accommodate larger, widespread faucets with separate handles
  3. Attachment Screws: Look for attachment screws, typically Phillips head screws, that secure the faucet to the sink. These screws are usually located beneath the sink's surface.
  4. Making It Secure: Place the faucet onto the sink, ensuring that it aligns with the mounting hole. Once in position, locate the attachment screws.
  5. Securing the Faucet: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws, making the faucet secure on the sink. Be careful not to overtighten, as it can damage the sink or faucet.
Cold and Hot Water Supplies

  1. Cold and Hot Water Supplies: After securing the faucet, connect the cold and hot water supply lines. Ensure they are correctly aligned and threaded into the corresponding handles.
  2. Final Check: Double-check all connections, making sure there are no leaks or loose fittings. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet for proper functionality.
tables

Add accessories - Matching towel bars, robe hooks and shelving give a pulled together look.

Helpful Plumbing Tools and Materials

Having the right tools and supplies makes faucet installation much easier:

  • Basin wrench - Reaches up behind sink to tighten nuts
  • Plumber's putty - Seals sink edges to prevent leaks
  • Teflon tape - Prevents supply line threading leaks
  • Flashlight - Illuminates cramped sink cabinet area
  • Bucket - Catches water and parts while disassembling

Investing in quality tools like wrenches allows you to complete more plumbing projects down the road.

Running faucet

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need plumbing experience to install a bathroom faucet?

While some experience is helpful, most DIYers can tackle a faucet install with proper research and preparation. Gather tools, materials, and reference installation guides. Work slowly and get help if needed.

How long does it take to install a bathroom faucet?

Allocate 2-3 hours for your first DIY bathroom faucet installation. Experienced DIYers may take 1-2 hours. Have patience and take breaks if frustrated.

Should I hire a professional plumber?

A trained plumber can complete installation quickly and resolve any unexpected issues. But DIY installs can save $100+ in labor costs. Decide based on your skill level and budget.

What should I do if the new faucet leaks?

Check supply line and valve connections and tighten if loose. Replace old washers. Reapply plumber's putty around the base. Adjust or replace valve seats and springs if faucet drips after shutting off water.

Can I reuse my existing supply lines when replacing a bathroom faucet?

It is recommended to install new flexible supply lines when replacing a bathroom faucet. This prevents leaks from old worn lines. Complete line replacement takes under 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Installing a bathroom faucet upgrades your space's form and function. By using this step-by-step guide and gathering the right tools, you can take on this project yourself and save significantly on labor costs. With some patience and preparation, you can achieve a long-lasting faucet installation that makes your bathroom shine.

Mourad Hebara