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When installing bathroom fixtures or replacing hardware, the project's difficulty is usually determined by the installation's size. Many small bathroom fixtures will be easy to install, while larger ones present varying levels of difficulty. Keep reading to learn what bathroom installations you can DIY and what you should leave to a professional.
Your bathroom faucet is one of the most flexible and central pieces in the space. It is also very easy to replace when the current plumbing configuration supports the new model. All you’ll need is a wrench, instructions, and some plumber's putty to keep everything well sealed.
When you’re ready to install bathroom hardware, keep this in mind: make the exchange simpler by selecting a model that needs the same piping setup. For example, if you have a two-handle faucet, it is simplest to choose another two-handle set rather than convert to a centerset unit. If you exchange one type for another, the project may become moderately difficult.
Shower Head: Simple
A new shower head can reinvigorate your morning routine, increasing water pressure or making it easier to use. Thankfully, this is a relatively easy update if you aren’t adding another shower head or handle to the layout. Like faucets, keeping the same configuration is key to keeping this a simple task.
Shower System: Difficult
Upgrading from a single to dual shower systems may require additional plumbing pipes depending on your current hot water capacity and preferred water pressure. Let experienced professionals reconfigure your plumbing, install the new product, and make your bathroom look like new again.
Bathtub: Difficult
A soaking tub can set the tone of your entire your bathroom design. Elegant styles such as hammered copper or oversized models fit for two often require professional installation due to lifting and moving heavy objects and updating plumbing connections. Always keep your tub water supply in mind when installing a new bathtub.
Accessories: Simple
Adding functional accessories like robe hooks, towel bars, and mirrors to your bathroom is easy. Updating existing fixtures is simple, too, usually only needing a screwdriver, stud finder, and level. The hardest part might be deciding which style will best suit your bathroom decor.
Barn Doors: Moderate
Barn doors are a popular, space-saving feature in contemporary and farmhouse style homes. While this is not a difficult project, it can be tedious to measure and install perfectly. You’ll need a strong attention to detail, a level, measuring tool, stud finder and drill.
The difficulty of sink installation depends on the style of sink you’re installing. Additionally, this depends on your plumbing connections lining up. If you must resize or adjust pipes or connections, the difficulty can increase greatly. Assuming the plumbing is good to go, you’ll need a level, crescent wrench, basin wrench, socket wrench, drill, screwdriver, pencil, stud finder, and the appropriate mounting hardware for these four styles of sinks.
Undermount sinks are installed beneath a countertop for a seamless, flush look. They are the most difficult of the three styles listed due to the precise measurements required to fit the basin to the countertop. Additionally, depending on the countertop materials, specialty tools might be needed to cut through the countertop without damaging it. Check out our Undermount Sink installation guide for more information.
Wall-mount sinks are ideal for fans of a modern or minimalist style due to the way they float on the wall enhancing the openness of a space. These sinks are a little more demanding to install but still manageable for a DIY project (especially when you have our Wall-Mount Sink installation guide). The biggest challenge presented by wall-mount sinks is ensuring this sink is anchored to two wall studs or securely fastened 2x4 wood blocking between studs.
Pedestal sinks feature a basin atop a pedestal stand and are typically the easiest to install due to the simplicity of their timeless design. Essentially, you’re bracketing the basin to the wall via studs, securing the pedestal to the floor, and finishing by connecting plumbing. Learn how to install pedestal sink in six easy steps with our installation guide.
Like pedestal sinks, console sinks feature a basin atop a stand; however, console sinks offer more counter space, exposed plumbing, and feature more open space beneath the basin. Many console sinks feature four freestanding legs or are wall-mounted (which could potentially complicate the installation).
Similar to sinks, the difficulty of tub faucet installation depends on the type of faucet. If you’re replacing an existing faucet, try to replace it with a similar style so the appropriate plumbing connections align for a smooth transition.
Wall-Mount tub faucets such as our Drea Wall-Mount Tub Faucet or fixtures such as our Lentz Tub Spout range in difficulty. If you already have an existing rough-in valve from previous hardware, the installation can be simple and straightforward. However, if this is a new installation, you’ll potentially need to cut pipes, connect water supply lines, and mount the fixtures which can be tricky.
These tub faucets are typically easier to install due to their placement, either being directly mounted on the tub itself or on a deck next to the tub. Both styles may include a hand shower option, such as our Vilamonte 4-Hole Roman Tub Faucet and Hand Shower or our Sebastian Tub Faucet with Variable centers and Hand Shower.
Freestanding tub faucets, such as our Lexia Freestanding Tub Faucet with Hand Shower share similar installation steps with Roman Tub Faucets. The main difference is instead of the connections leading up to a deck where the faucet is installed, they are left on the floor where a freestanding faucet is directly installed. These faucets are ideal for freestanding tubs and are a great way to add an eye-catching accent to your space.
Last but not least, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unfamiliar with the steps to install bathroom fixtures. Whether you need to speak to one of our licensed plumbers or a customer relations representative, we have experienced professionals who are happy to guide you through your update.