How to Remove a Stuck or Rusted Tub Spout

A tub spout may work great for years without problems, but it may suddenly seem frozen in place when it’s time for a new one. It’s sometimes necessary to remove the tub spout for repair without damaging it. Yet even when the old tub spout is being replaced, care must be taken during removal to prevent damage to the other parts of the plumbing. If twisting and turning the spout doesn’t seem to work, try these tips for getting it loose.

Watch for Setscrews

Most tub spouts are attached by small hidden screws called setscrews. Looking at the underside of the spout as close as possible to its base will usually reveal the screw. However, spouts that have been turned or bumped out of place may be hiding their screws. Don’t assume a spout is a simple twist-off design if there are any small holes or openings on the base, even if you can’t see a screw in the opening. There may be a hidden or covered screw somewhere firmly holding the fixture in place.

Look for Excessive Caulk

A thin bead of caulk around the base of the tub spout where it meets the wall is a good idea to keep water from getting between the surround. However, too much caulk squeezed between the tub spout and wall, in particular, can hold it in place even when other fasteners have been loosened.

Use a putty knife to carefully scrape away excess caulk and wedge the edge between the spout and the wall to ensure there’s no tight seal there.

Grab Some Penetrating Spray

If the problem really is rust or mineral deposits cementing the tub spout to the wall, trying to force the tub spout to come loose will only damage the plumbing behind the fixture. Instead, use a penetrating rust-loosening spray.

Look for a product with a long, thin straw to help get the spray between the tub spout and the wall. It may be necessary to pry the tub spout away from the wall a little to create the space for spraying.

After a few applications of penetrating spray and a few hours of waiting between applications, the rust or mineral deposits should loosen up enough to let the fixture go free.

Increase the Pressure

Sometimes a tub spout isn’t quite as stuck as it seems, but rather it’s too rounded or curved for the homeowner to get a good grip on it.

Using a pipe wrench or belt wrench designed for irregular shapes can give them more grip without risking damage to the plumbing. While it is possible to cut a truly frozen tub spout off if necessary, it’s best to leave that step to a professional since they’ll need to replace more parts connecting to the plumbing after making that effort.

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Once the tub spout is off, it’s time to install a beautiful replacement from Kingston Brass. Explore all the hottest trends and styles for bathroom remodeling or put together a look for new construction. There’s a style for every homeowner within the company’s catalog.