I am installing a tub/shower valve w/ tub spout in the wall at the head of the tub and need to know where to locate the tub spout. How high off the floor should the spout be. I think I remember something about locating the end of the spout 3-5 inches above the spill plane of the tub. Anybody got anything more definitive?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
![](https://images.finehomebuilding.com/app/uploads/2024/04/29113159/BUILDING-SCIENCE-SYMPOSIUM-1-Large-thumb-16x9.jpeg)
Check out the lineup for the 2024 Building Science Symposium featuring experts like Steve Baczek, Dr. Joe Lstiburek, and more.
Featured Video
How to Install Exterior Window TrimHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
Hard to know without the dimensions of your tub. They range from 14"-22" deep, so you'll want to go 4 or 5 inches above the tub rim. Most companies have CAD drawings of tubs on their websites.
zak
"so it goes"
Thanks Zak I did neglect to mention the tub height of 14.5 ". Looking at other installed tubs it does look to set the tub spout at about 5" above the rim. I am surprised there is not a definitive height to locate the spout and handles in the plethera of plumbing/home improvement book I have.
I would guess it is a code item to prevent back siphoning into your water supply if the tub were filled to overflowing. My code book (Michigan) says "two times the diameter of the effective opening" if it's away from a wall and three times if it's close to a wall.
as a rule of thumb i place mine so that the water discarge is1 inch above the flood rim of the fixture to prevent any type of back siphonage
Most shower tub valves will have the info. in the box that it came in, the measurement you want is how high above the tub they recommend, not how high from the floor, from that point you can tweek it, luck.
Code requires that it be at a height which will achieve optimal pain when you back into it.