A bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house, and the tub is often the centerpiece. Whether you’re taking a relaxing bath or getting ready for a night out, your tub should be in top condition for a refreshing dip. However, over time, wear and tear can take its toll, and it’s always better to have the right supplies on hand so that you can fix the problem as quickly as possible. By having these nine components on hand, you can handle most emergencies before they become a big problem.
1. Spout
The spout on your bathtub is an important part of the overall design. Not only does it add to the aesthetic of the tub, but it also serves a functional purpose. The spout is responsible for directing water into the tub and keeping it from spilling out onto the floor. Over time, the spout can become worn or damaged, making it difficult to use. That’s why it’s important to have a replacement spout on hand just in case. When shopping for a replacement spout, be sure to measure the existing one so that you can find an exact match.
2. Gasket
A gasket is a small yet essential component of your tub’s inner workings. The main purpose of a gasket is to create a watertight seal between two surfaces. This prevents water from leaking out of your tub and keeps the area around your tub clean and dry. With a few simple tools, you can easily replace a worn-out gasket and keep your bathtub in good working condition.
3. Nuts and Screws
Nuts and screws are critical for holding together the various components of your bathtub. If you ever need to make a tub repair in a hurry, having a few nuts and screws on hand will be a lifesaver. They can be used to repair everything from a loose handle to a faulty faceplate. Plus, they’re small and easy to store, so you won’t have to worry about taking up too much space in your garage or closet.
Remember, it’s not just emergency repairs that require nuts and screws. If you ever want to upgrade your bathtub with new fixtures or accessories, you’ll need a few extra screws to get the job done.
4. Faceplate
A faceplate covers the drain hole, ensuring that water does not escape from the tub when it’s not in use. In addition, a faceplate provides a finished look to the tub, helping it to blend in with the surrounding tiles or fixtures. Over time, however, this component can wear out or become corroded, and it may need to be replaced. Since most faceplates can be installed without any advanced plumbing skills required, it is always a good idea to have a spare on hand.
When choosing a faceplate, select one that is made of durable materials and that fits snugly around the bathtub drain. Also, these parts come in a variety of colors and styles, so it is easy to find one that matches the decor of your bathroom.
5. O-rings
O-rings are one of those essential bathtub parts that any homeowner should have on hand. Their primary purpose is to create a seal between the tub and the drain stopper. Without an O-ring, water would be able to leak out of the tub each time you took a bath or shower. Over time, this can lead to significant water damage in your bathroom. In addition, an O-ring helps to keep your drain stopper in place. If the O-ring becomes damaged or worn out, it will need to be replaced. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to have a few extras on hand.
6. Drain Kit
While most bathtub drains are designed to last for years, there are always the occasional clogs and leaks that can occur. A drain kit will help you to quickly and easily fix these problems with a few DIY skills. In addition, if you’re ever planning on renovating your bathroom, a drain kit can be a great way to change the look of your tub without having to replace the entire unit.
7. Valves
Bathtub valves are one of those things that you might not think about very often, but they play an important role in your bathroom. Just like any other valve in your home, they are subject to wear and tear and can eventually break down. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a few spare valves on hand, just in case one of yours breaks.
There are two main types of bathtub valves: shut-off valves and diverter valves. Stop valves are used to turn the water off completely while diverter valves allow you to redirect the water flow. Depending on your bathroom’s setup, you might have one or both of these types of valves.
8. Handles
Handles provide a safe and easy way to enter and exit the tub and can also be used to steady yourself while bathing. While most handles are made of durable materials that can withstand years of use, occasional accidents can happen. Corrosion can easily break a handle, and over time, extensive wear and tear can cause handles to loosen or break completely. For this reason, it is always a good idea to have a few spare handles on hand. That way, if one breaks, you can simply replace it without causing any inconvenience or compromising your safety.
9. Faucet
Faucets are one of the most important parts of a bathtub. Not only do they provide the water needed for bathing, but they also help to control the temperature of the water. Also, faucets can be used to add soap or other products. Therefore, it is important to have a faucet that is in good working condition and that is made of durable materials.
When choosing a faucet, look for one that is made of brass or another metal that will not tarnish over time. Also, make sure that the finish is resistant to scratches and that the handles are easy to grip. In addition, consider getting a faucet with a detachable hose so that you can easily clean it. It’s worth having a backup faucet so that you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
Improve Indoor Comfort in Your Home Today
At We Care Plumbing, Heating and Air, we take pride in providing top-quality plumbing, heating, and air services, including purification, filtration, and duct cleaning, to homeowners in Southern California from our offices in Murrieta, Temecula, and Orange. We also have a utility rebate program to help you save big on system upgrades. Whether you need a simple repair, routine maintenance or a complete system replacement, we’ll be there to get the job done right. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a free consultation.
