How To Measure Tub Spout Length? [Do-It-Yourself Guide]

Folks often need to know the right length of a tub spout when wanting to add one to their bathroom.

To measure tub spout length, you simply need to measure the pipe and thread length. Then, sum the pipe’s length, half of the thread’s length, and the front side of the tub spout that is 1″ to get the tub spout length.

Don’t worry if it seems puzzling, as I’ll be sharing the step-by-step instructions on how you can measure the length of the tub spout correctly with the most-asked queries here. Let’s get started!

Measure the Tub Spout Length in 3 Steps!

To find the exact length, you’ll need to measure the pipe length and thread (that holds the spout to secure the fitting). As this topic is a little complicated and involves calculation, it needs to be explained in a detailed way. So, let me share how is a tub spout measured in easy-to-follow steps below:

Step 1: Preparing for Measurement

Firstly, you’ll need to get a measuring tape and set up the pipe inside the finished wall in your bathroom. Via these, you can easily find the right length of the tub spout.

Step 2: Measuring the Tub Spout Pipe Length and Thread

Next, you’ll need to go to the exposed pipe that is attached to the wall. If necessary, take out the old spout using your hand or screwdriver based on the tub spout type.

Then, take the measuring tape and simply count the length in inches or cm (based on your preference). In the same way, measure the thread area using the same tool. After that, write them down in your notepad.

Step 3: Finding the Length of the Tub Spout

Now that you know the length of the pipe, it’s time to figure out the tub spout length. To get the tub spout length, you’ll need to sum the front side of the tub spout (1″) with half of the 1/2″ FIP thread and the length of the pipe.

Length of Tub Spout = Front side of tub spout (1″) + Half of the thread + Length of pipe

For example, if your pipe is 4″ long, then the right tub spout length will be around 5-1/4″ or 13.335 cm (1″ + half of 1/2″ + 4″ = 5.25″).

Similarly, if the pipe is 4.375″ (4-3/8″ or 11.1125 cm) while the thread is 3/4″ FIP, then the tub spout length will be around 5-3/4″ or 14.61 cm (1″ + half of 3/4″ + 4.375″ = 5.75″).

However, if you use a tub spout that doesn’t use a thread and the pipe is less than the standard length (4″ – 4-3/8″), then this above calculation won’t work.

In that case, the simplest way you can know the exact length of the tub spout is by measuring the old tub spout that you have attached to the bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the standard tub spout length?

The standard length of a tub spout is 5-1/2″ or 5-1/4″, which goes perfectly with the 4″ – 4-3/8″ pipe. However, some brands offer long tub spouts around 6-1/2″ – 10-1/8″ for long pipes.

2. What is the proper height for a tub spout?

There is no right height for a tub spout. However, most plumbers suggest placing the spout at around 4″ to 8″ height. Based on the strict code section, it is suggested to place the spout at least 2-1/2″ times the spout’s opening size above the tub’s rim.

3. What is the distance between the spout and the tub?

Based on the experts, the appropriate distance of the tub spout should be between 6″ – 11″ below the tub or shower valve.

4. Does tub spout length matter?

Yep! If it’s your first time adding a tub spout, the length definitely matters. Or else, you’ll either face the pipe running short or long and leave big gaps from the finished wall after securing the tub spout.

In Conclusion

Based on practical and effective ways, I’ve explained how to measure tub spout length. You can follow this method to correctly determine any tub-spout length from any bathroom that has a pipe.

Just focus on the pipe and thread length when you are planning to get a correct length tub spout. If the pipe is shorter than an inch, you’ll need the standard-size wall-end threaded tub spout. Or else, use the standard size of the front-end threaded spout.

Hope this guide seems detailed to you to understand the right way to measure tub spout length.