Clawfoot Tub Supply Line Tips

For clawfoot tubs with faucet holes drilled in the side of the tub, there are two basic types of supply lines; double offset and single offset.

Single offset supply lines run parallel to each other straight to the floor. Single offset supplies work well when the spread of the rough ins matches that of the tub faucet holes (e.g., 3 3/8" cc faucet holes and 3 3/8" cc stubs).

In most cases, however, faucet holes are drilled 3 3/8" on center and stubs are roughed in on 8" centers. Double offset supply lines have a bend in them and slope slightly away from each other as they run to the floor. Double offset supplies flare out from 3 3/8" centers on the faucet end to 8" centers to connect with floor stubs. Double offset installations are most common but the appropriate choice will depend on your situation.

In some cases, neither single nor double offset supply lines are an option. These supply lines will not work if the stubs are roughed in through the wall (e.g., a basement bathroom with a concrete slab floor). They will not work if the rough in and faucet holes are offset at non-standard spreads. They may not work if the tub must be positioned too close to the wall. Single and double offset supplies (including floor escutcheons) require approximately 5"-6" between the wall and where the supplies connect to the faucet shanks. In any of these situations, bathcock ells (elbows) with stainless steel flex hose are used. Our ells extend approximately 2" and the stainless steel flex hoses can accommodate odd offsets or wall installation.

For tubs that have holes drilled in the rim, we offer deck mount supply lines, including a unique deck mount pressure balance system. For tubs that have no holes, we carry an assortment of free standing supplies. Shop 4 Classics has supply lines for any situation.

Many supply line options include shutoffs (sometimes referred to as stops). Shutoffs for clawfoot tub supplies are used for the same reason your sink faucet or toilet supplies have stops. The valves allow you to turn off water to the faucet if you need to work on it or replace it. They are also quite popular for aesthetic reasons.

Clawfoot Tub Supply Installation Instructions

All leg tub supplies should be installed by a qualified, licensed plumber. Please use teflon tape on all threaded connections.

Rough in 1/2" male IPS with 1/2" (1 1/2" if installing with stops) of threads above the finished floor. After the tub is in place and level, install the faucet on the tub according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Connect the supply lines to the faucet shanks with the included nuts and washers. Place the larger faucet washer on the end of the supply and use the flange as a friction ring. Nuts and washers are usually supplied with both the faucet and the supply lines and multiple sets may be included to allow installation on different fittings. Depending on your project, you may have extra nuts and washers after you complete installation of the supply lines.

Please see Clawfoot Tub Drain Tips for help with selecting and installing leg tub drains.