Tub filler guide: floor, deck or wall mount

The faucet you pick for a tub depends on where the water can come from. A freestanding tub has no deck, so the filler either stands on the floor or comes out of the wall.

Floor-mount fillers

A tall filler that rises from the floor beside a freestanding tub. It looks like furniture and works anywhere in the room, but the supply lines and valve are set in the floor, so the tub position has to be final before the floor is closed.

Wall-mount fillers

A spout from the wall with the valve behind it. Clean and simple when the tub sits against a wall. Check that the spout reaches past the tub rim.

Deck-mount fillers

For drop-in tubs, tubs with a wide rim, or tubs set into a platform. The faucet mounts on the deck or the tub rim, like a Roman tub set.

Height and reach

The spout should clear the rim and land the water inside the tub, not on the edge. Compare the filler's spout height and reach to the tub's rim height and wall thickness before you order.

Hand showers and flow

Most fillers include a hand shower, which makes rinsing the tub and your hair much easier. A higher flow fills a deep soaking tub faster; make sure your water heater can keep up.

Plan the rough-in early

Floor-mount fillers need a rough-in valve and blocking under the floor. Decide on the tub and filler together, before framing and flooring. See freestanding vs alcove tubs and our freestanding tub ideas.

Common questions

What kind of faucet does a freestanding tub need?

A floor-mount or wall-mount tub filler, since most freestanding tubs have no deck for a faucet.

How far should a tub filler be from the tub?

Close enough that the spout lands water inside the rim. Check the filler reach against the tub rim before ordering.

Can I add a floor-mount filler later?

Only by opening the floor, so it is best planned before flooring goes in.