As far as DIY home renos go, upgrading your tapware is a simple enough task that you can undertake yourself to make a big difference in your wetrooms. Whether you need to update a drippy tap in the bathroom or laundry or want to upgrade your kitchen tap for a more functional one with a spray hose or swivel head, you can do it!

While this may seem like a daunting process to begin with, it doesn’t need to instil dread or fear in you. To prove it, today we will walk you through the process of installing tapware safely and with ease, to ensure a smooth and successful installation.

Things to consider before installing tapware

While installing tapware is considered one of the easiest plumbing jobs to DIY, there are a few things that you should consider before embarking on this project:

  • Tapware Age and Type: Older tapware is prone to damage or wear and tear, so they require a little more delicacy. Different types of tapware (e.g., mixer taps, pillar taps, wall-mounted taps, or taps with sprays) may also require specialised installation methods.
  • Plumbing Damage: Keep an eye out for damaged parts. When installing new tapware, it can reveal damaged components or reveal underlying plumbing problems. Before diving into the installation, it’s important to check for signs of corrosion or damage and address any issues promptly to prevent future leaks or breakages.
  • Compatibility: Check for compatibility. Not all taps are designed exactly the same, so when choosing new tapware make sure it is compatible with your existing plumbing configuration and sink or countertop design. Check the dimensions and specifications of the new fixtures to ensure a proper fit and alignment.
  • Risks and Challenges: Like risks of old tapware being damaged or delicate, older homes may also have old pipes and fixtures that can be more complex to navigate on your own. So, you need to be prepared to troubleshoot potential issues and not be too proud to seek professional assistance if needed.
  • DIY vs. Professional Installation: Finally, consider your level of DIY and plumbing experience and knowledge. Videos and online tutorials are great, but they don’t beat years of training. If you’re in doubt of anything, it’s best to contact a professional to minimise risks and ensure compliance with local building codes.

By carefully considering these factors before attempting to DIY your tapware installation, you can minimise the risks or issues arising during the process and ensure a stress-free and successful upgrade that enhances the user experience and looks of your bathroom, laundry or kitchen.

Step 1. Choosing new tapware

Before you can even start thinking about the installation process, you need to buy your new tapware. From traditional designs to sleek modern styles, tapware comes in various shapes, sizes, and finishes to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for bathroom tapware, kitchen tapware, laundry tapware, or specialty tapware for specific areas, there’s a wide range of options to choose from.

Browse our range of high-quality tapware for bathrooms, kitchens and laundries at Everhard Industries. We have all kinds of classic and modern taps and mixers to help enhance your wet areas.

Step 2. Preparation

Once you’ve chosen your perfect tapware it’s time for the prep work. The key to any successful DIY project is proper preparation. 

Start by gathering everything you need so you don’t have to go searching for it mid-installation. The tools you will need, include wrenches, screwdrivers, plumber’s tape, silicone sealant, and of course your chosen tapware.

Next, turn off the mains water supply and then open the tap to drain any remaining water from the pipes. These steps are essential to prevent leaks or flooding from water pouring through open taps or pipes during the installation, keeping you and your room dry throughout the process.

Step 3. Remove the old tapware

Disconnect any water supply lines and loosen the mounting hardware to detach the old tapware from the sink or countertop.

If you’re replacing existing tapware, you’ll need to carefully remove the old fixtures first. Use a wrench to disconnect any water supply lines and loosen the mounting hardware to detach the old tapware from the sink or countertop.

Step 4. Check your plumbing

Once the taps are detached, clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining adhesive or dirt. This is also a good time to check the condition of your pipes, fixings and joints. 

If any repairs or replacements are required you can do them while the water is off and your taps are disconnected. It’s also important to double-check that the fittings on your new tapware will work with your existing pipework. If there are any discrepancies, you will need to get an adaptor.

Step 5. Install new tapware

Once any necessary repairs or adjustments have been made, you can install your new taps. Read any included instructions for your chosen tapware to ensure there are no specialised steps. For general installation you can start by carefully aligning your new taps into the existing holes in the bath or sink, being sure to keep the washers between the tap and the surface and secure them with the included nuts.

You can then connect up the supply pipes to the taps. But be careful not to overtighten them. Best practice is to secure them by hand to begin and then check the positioning for proper flow before tightening with a wrench for a water-tight seal.

Step 6. Seal and finish

Once you’re sure the positioning and connection is correct you can secure your taps in place with silicone sealant. Place a bead of sealant around the base of each tap to prevent leakage and use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess sealant for a clean finish.

Step 7. Test for leaks

Finally, once everything is tight and sealed, you can turn the water back on and run the new taps. It’s important to be gentle at first though, just turn them a fraction to begin with, you don’t want to put too much pressure on them too quickly as this can cause leaks.

While running the water, check around the connections and taps for any leaks; even the smallest drip can lead to extensive damage over time, so be thorough. If you do detect a leak, try tightening the connections. However, unfortunately, if this doesn’t stop the leak you may need to start the process again or call a professional plumber to complete repairs.

Maintenance and care

Now that your shiny new tapware is installed, it’s important to keep it looking and functioning well for years to come. Regularly clean the fixtures with a mild detergent and water to remove any mineral or dirt buildup or residue. Try to avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals for cleaning, as these can damage the finish and impair the functionality of the tapware.

Ensure seamless tapware installation

Upgrading tapware is a simple yet effective way that you can change up and enhance the look and functionality of your bathroom, kitchen or laundry without a lot of effort or money, as you can often DIY it. By being prepared and following these steps (and any additional instructions for your chosen tapware) carefully, you will be able to confidently install new tapware to say good riddance to leaky taps or just enhance your space with reliable and stylish fixtures.

So, if you’re inspired and want to try to update your taps and enhance your wet rooms, check out our extensive range of kitchen, laundry and bathroom tapware at Everhard Industries.