Replace the Hardware on an Old Bathtub

Learn how to replace the hardware on an old bathtub. Find out where to locate vintage hot and cold water taps for an old clawfoot bath tub.

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LESLIE: Josie in Connecticut, you are on The Money Pit. What’s up?

JOSIE: Hi. I need some information. I have an old-fashioned footed tub in a home that I’ve just bought.

LESLIE: OK.

JOSIE: Excellent condition. I may have it reglazed just because I want to do that. However, the fixtures that come out of the tub for the hot and cold water and the water source are not there. I have three holes in that tub. Now, of course, I know they’re back in fashion now and I know you can get them. But this tub has the holes in the tub.

LESLIE: So you have to get things that fit exactly.

JOSIE: Exactly. And I’m just wondering are there any sources available or I’m going to be able to refit the tub. I hate to get rid of it. It’s a cast iron. It’s in beautiful condition.

TOM: No, that would be a real shame. There absolutely are sources that can help you.

LESLIE: That’s right, there are. There’s a great website. It’s called SignatureHardware.com – all one word. And if you go there, they have a ton of fixtures that are made specifically for claw foot tubs that get mounted into the tub itself. Because a lot of times the faucets are going directly into the wall and that’s not so with a claw foot. So you’ve got to make sure it’s the right type of hardware.

JOSIE: Exactly. And that’s what I’ve been – you know, looking for and researching and finding. And this is an older tub.

LESLIE: Mm-hmm.

JOSIE: They did it differently in those days. So it’s in excellent condition and I do thank you for this information.

TOM: You’re very welcome.

LESLIE: (overlapping voices) You’re so welcome. Enjoy that nice, deep soak.

JOSIE: Oh, listen. This is my retirement home and it’s truly a money pit. (Tom and Leslie chuckle) But it’ll be my joy to refurbish (ph) it. (laughing) Thank you.

TOM: Well, now you’ll be retiring in a little extra comfort. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT. 888-666-3974.