How To Replace Roman Tub Faucet With No Access Panel?

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Replacing a Roman tub faucet is a simple task, even if you can’t use its access panel. After a certain time period, the tub faucet starts showing problems. Either it starts leaking, the handle won’t turn easily, or anything else.

You have repaired it many times but after some time, it starts showing the same or new problem. So, it would be better to replace it. Your tub faucet doesn’t have any access panel. So, maybe you are thinking about how to replace roman tub faucet with no access panel.

Don’t worry, you can replace it easily. We have a step-by-step guide that shows the replacement process in the detail. Let’s take a look at the guide.

How To Replace Roman Tub Faucet With No Access Panel?

Tools You Need

• Philips head screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Sheets
• Needle nose pliers
• Pipe wrench
• Teflon tape
• Rag

Step 1 – Shut off Water Supply To The Tub Faucet

Generally, people shut off the water supply to the bathroom tub faucet from the access panel.

But you don’t have any access panel with the tub faucet. Check the nearest room of the bathroom, if there is any access panel or not. If not, you need to shut off the water supply from the main water supply of the house. It will close the water supply for the whole house.

Turn on the tub faucet, so the remaining water into the pipeline comes out. It will also release pressure from inside the faucet.

Lay a towel or a sheet in the bottom of the tub. It will protect the finish of the tub from scratches.

Step 2 – Locate Screws To Remove the Handle

There are 2 types of handles you may find with your tub faucet. Either it will have a lever handle or a knob-type handle.

In the lever handle, check the curve of the handle to locate the screw. Here, you will find a set screw. Depending on the screw type, either you need an Allen wrench or a Philips-head screwdriver to remove the screw.

In the knob-type handle, the screw is not visible directly, it is hidden below the cap.

Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the cover from the handle. Now the screw is visible. So, use a Philips head screwdriver to remove the screw.

Step 3- Remove The Tub Faucet

After removing the handle, you need to remove the tub faucet. The handle and faucet are not connected to each other. You need to remove them separately.

Check the base of the faucet or underneath the bathtub rim. Once you find the screw, unscrew it by using an Allen wrench or hex key.

Step 4 – Clean The Area

Now both handles and faucet are removed. But you can see, there is buildup and putty around holes. Use a scraper to remove these.

To clean it properly, use vinegar. Soak a cloth in the vinegar and rub it on the buildup. Leave it for hours and then clean it with water.

Step 5 – Install New Tub Faucet

Place O-rings on the base of the tub faucet. Place the cartridge into the plumbing unit and push it. Use retaining clips to fix the faucet cartridge. Slide the decorative cartridge sleeve to cover the cartridge.

Now secure the handle on the cartridge by using the retaining screw. If there is a cover on the handle, place the cover. Fix the tub faucet in its place by tightening the bathroom tap screw.

Why Is It Called Roman Tub?

A Roman tub is a spacious area where you can soak yourself. A Roman tub is generally bigger than a normal tub.

Its name is inspired by ancient Roman pools. In the Roman Empire, Roman pools were places where people take baths and socialize with each other. People used to relax in these pools to remove tiredness.

Nowadays a Roman tub gives a similar experience. You can install it in your house and it gives you full body relaxation.

In the Roman tub, your whole body is fully immersed in the water. Apart from your face, none of your body parts remains outside the water. If you have a big space in the bathroom only then you can install a Roman tub.

Are All Roman Tub Faucets Interchangeable?

Not all Roman tub faucets are interchangeable. It depends on which model you currently have and which new model you are going to buy.

If parts of both Roman tub faucets are interchangeable, you can replace the old one with a new one. It takes only a few simple steps for the replacement.

Before buying a new model for the Roman tub, you should talk with the customer care service of the new brand. They will guide you on whether the new model will fit into your Roman tub or not.

Do You Need an Access Panel For Shower?

The access panel is not compulsorily required for the shower or tub but it is good if you have an access panel. An access panel is either placed inside the bathroom wall or in a nearby room. Without an access panel, you need to cut the wall to repair the shower.

Ralph Matthews

Meet Ralph Matthews, father of 2 cute daughters and a skilled plumber with over 10 years of experience in the industry. Ralph has particular expertise in repairing any type of faucet and has helped countless homeowners and businesses solve their plumbing problems with his expert knowledge and attention to detail.