Clawfoot bathtubs are a beautiful, eye-catching centerpiece in many bathrooms, offering a touch of antique elegance and creating a dramatic element in the space. While the tub is a stunning feature, you’ll need the perfect faucet to complement it. So, what faucet should you choose?
There are a few primary faucet types, and although you can make almost anything work, some styles work better than others. Here’s what you need to know before making your selection.
What Are The Different Types Of Tub Faucets?
There are quite a few variations of tub faucets, each designed for use with different bathtub styles. Some are compatible with certain tub types, while others work best with others. Here are the common types of tub faucets:
Freestanding
These tub faucets stand freely, as the name implies. They’re designed for use with tubs that don’t have pre-drilled holes, usually positioned on the floor with the spout hanging over the tub. You can place freestanding bathtub faucets wherever you’d like, as they don’t require support from the tub.
Of course, you’ll need to ensure the plumbing works with the placement you want to use, but other than that, you have the freedom to place it wherever. These faucets are popular for freestanding or pedestal tubs, but some folks also choose to install them with clawfoot tubs.
Deck Mounted
Deck-mounted faucets, also referred to as rim-mounted faucets, are designed for tubs with pre-drilled holes. The faucet rests on the bathtub’s deck or rim, with rigid supply lines feeding from the underfloor. Alternatively, you can use flexible supply lines to connect a deck-mounted faucet to the water supply.
These faucets come in multiple variations, as the center measurement between the two holes in a pre-drilled bathtub varies from one model to the next. Many people choose this type of faucet for drop-in, freestanding, and clawfoot bathtubs.
Wall Mounted
These faucets are one of the most common bathtub faucet styles, as they sit against the wall with the spout extending over the edge of the tub. This option is ideal for scenarios where underfloor access isn’t available, or there isn’t enough space or pre-drilled holes for a deck-mounted faucet.
These faucets are compatible with any bathtub type, providing the tub is near a wall with access to the water supply. They’re a typical pick for alcove bathtubs, but you can use them for any bathtub.
Tub Wall Mounted
Like wall-mounted faucets, these bathtub faucets sit against the wall. However, they are mounted on the tub’s wall instead of resting against the wall near the bathtub. There are typically pre-drilled faucet holes in these types of bathtubs, so these faucets are designed to match standard specifications (3 ⅜-inch centers).
These faucets work well with varying bathtubs, including alcove, drop-in, and clawfoot tubs. In a clawfoot or freestanding tub, the assembly sits lower in the tub, whereas it sits somewhat higher in an alcove tub.
Roman
Similar to deck-mounted faucets, Roman tub faucets rest on the rim of the tub. However, these faucets require three holes drilled into the tub’s rim, although a fourth hole is necessary to add a hand shower. These faucets feature several handle options to accentuate the style and aesthetic of your bathroom.
These tubs work with varying types of bathtubs, although a platform is necessary to install it with freestanding or clawfoot tubs.
What Is The Most Common Faucet Style For Clawfoot Tubs?
Clawfoot tubs work with multiple faucet styles, although some work better than others. For most people, tub wall-mount faucets, rim-mount faucets, or wall-mount faucets work best. If your tub has pre-drilled holes, a tub wall-mount faucet will likely be your best option.
If your tub has pre-drilled holes in the rim of your tub, a deck-mount faucet will likely work best. Or, if your tub has no pre-drilled holes, you could choose a wall-mount faucet to keep the deck free.
Of course, you can work with alternative faucet options. For instance, you could choose to install a freestanding faucet for a statement look. Or, install a platform near your bathtub and pair it with a Roman faucet.
While some faucet types work best in some scenarios, they might not be the best pick for your clawfoot tub. So, it ultimately comes down to your personal situation.
What To Consider When Choosing The Perfect Clawfoot Tub Faucet
As you browse for the perfect solution for your clawfoot tub’s faucet dilemma, you should consider a few things. Some faucets will work better for specific clawfoot tubs, so there isn’t necessarily an ideal pick for every tub type. Here are a few things you should consider:
Bathroom Layout
Your bathroom layout significantly affects what types of faucets will work with your clawfoot bathtub. For example, if your clawfoot tub sits against the wall, you could choose a wall-mounted option. However, if there’s a window near your tub, a wall-mounted faucet might not work.
Or, if you want to do a freestanding faucet, you’ll need to ensure you have underfloor access to the plumbing, as installing this type of faucet requires such. So, as you consider your options, make sure they work with the kind of clawfoot tub you have. If you haven’t bought a tub yet, you have more flexibility, so you can choose the tub based on the faucet you like and the bathroom design.
Pre-Drilled Holes
If you already have a clawfoot tub, look for pre-drilled faucet holes. Some clawfoot tubs feature holes in the front of the tub, which are there for a tub wall-mount faucet. Other tubs might feature holes on the rim of the tub, designed for a deck-mount faucet. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to use these holes for the faucet, but they might be somewhat unsightly (and affect how much water you can put in the tub).
Dimensions
Ensure you keep the dimensions of the tub and bathroom layout in mind as you select a faucet. Some faucets might not work with the center measurement (if your tub has pre-drilled holes) or might be too large for the space. So, be sure to consider this aspect as you search for the perfect faucet.
Handle Style
Aside from the primary considerations, it doesn’t hurt to consider the aesthetics of the faucet. What type of handle do you want? Do you prefer one handle style over another? If so, look for a faucet featuring the style you want, but be sure it’s compatible with the other considerations.
Finish
Lastly, you have your choice of finish and material. Many modern tub faucets feature solid brass, which holds up well over time and is exceptionally durable. When it comes to faucet finish, you’ll likely have over a dozen options. Many brands offer several finishes to match the aesthetics of your bathroom, so choose something you like.
Standard finishes include nickel, stainless steel, bronze, brass, and chrome. Most of these finish options come in a few types, such as brushed, satin, or polished.
