Since the fixture is supported by the plumbing pipes, rather than the wall, regular backer board for tiling (that is, a stable waterproof board) should suffice, says Connolly. And it doesn’t matter what type of backsplash you have. While it’s usually tile, you can also install the tap on a wall with waterproof paint or even on stone slab.
With all these measurements, it’s best to have a professional install a wall-mounted tap. It starts with the plumber installing the pipes, which must be in positioned so the tap will be centered over the spot where the sink will be. “Once you install the plumbing, you can’t move it,” says Connolly. “Well, maybe by half an inch, but not enough to make a difference if it’s really out of whack.” For the next step, the cabinetmaker measures where the plumbing rough is installed so they know exactly where the sink cabinet needs to go.
And if your backsplash is tile, there’s another detail that should be attended to: For the best appearance, you’ll want the grout lines perfectly aligned with your wall-mounted tap so everything’s centered.
Above: A traditional wall-mounted style in the bath; see A “Modern Victorian” Loft in London by Mark Lewis for more. Photograph by Rory Gardiner.It’s almost always possible to install a wall-mounted tap (unless you have a window directly behind the sink), but some conditions require extra work. Let’s say you want to install the faucet on an exterior-facing wall—which, in a cold-weather area, could lead to frozen pipes. “In those cases you’ll need to fur out the wall,” says Connolly; that is, build the wall out a few extra inches. “That gives you enough room to encase the pipes with two to three inches of high-density spray foam insulation.”
A stone slab backsplash also creates difficulties: You’ll need to have holes drilled for the faucet, and they must be precisely centered. “But if you’re able to afford a stone backsplash, you can afford a good contractor to coordinate all that work,” Connolly says.
Not without making other changes. If your existing tap is mounted on the sink, the sink will have one or more holes to accommodate that. So if you’re swapping out your tap, you’ll also have to replace your old sink with a new one that doesn’t have holes. If your faucet is installed on the counter itself, you’ll have to replace your countertop.
Looking for more tips on kitchen faucets? Start with our Remodeling 101: Kitchen Sinks and Faucets guide, where you’ll find help with faucet and sink selection, installation and maintenance. For more expert opinions on faucets, see our posts:
N.B.: Featured image from the Bear Creek Bovidae Bath in Austin, Texas, an entrant in our 2017 Considered Design Awards.
Finally, get more ideas on how to evaluate and choose your bathroom sink and faucet in our Remodeling 101 Guide: Bathroom Sinks & Faucets.
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Wall-mounted faucets offer several advantages. They provide a sleek and minimalist look to the bathroom or kitchen, as the plumbing lines are hidden in the wall. They also free up countertop space, making it easier to clean and maintain. Additionally, wall-mounted faucets allow for greater flexibility in sink design and can be installed at a preferred height.
Wall-mounted faucets require specific sink configurations. The sink must have a corresponding hole or mounting option on the wall to accommodate the faucet. It's essential to consider the sink design and compatibility before choosing a wall-mounted faucet.
Installing a wall-mounted faucet can be more complex than a traditional deck-mounted faucet. It involves running plumbing lines inside the wall, which may require professional installation or the assistance of a plumber. It's crucial to ensure proper positioning, alignment, and sealing to prevent leaks.
Wall-mounted faucets do not require specific additional maintenance compared to traditional faucets. Regular cleaning and maintenance practices, such as removing mineral deposits and checking for leaks, apply to all faucets. However, accessing the plumbing behind the wall may require some additional effort for repairs or maintenance.
It is possible to install wall-mounted faucets in existing bathrooms or kitchens, but it may require modifications to the plumbing and wall structure. If you are considering retrofitting a wall-mounted faucet, it's recommended to consult with a professional to assess the feasibility and potential challenges.
Wall-mounted faucets, when properly installed, are not inherently more prone to leaks than traditional faucets. The key to preventing leaks is ensuring proper installation and using quality materials. Hiring a professional or experienced plumber can help minimize the risk of leaks.
Wall-mounted faucets can be used with various sink materials, including porcelain, ceramic, stainless steel, and stone. However, it's important to consider the sink's weight, stability, and installation requirements to ensure compatibility with the chosen wall-mounted faucet.