Wall-mount faucet guide

A wall-mount faucet frees the counter and makes cleaning easy. It suits vessel sinks, farmhouse kitchens and clawfoot tubs, but it has to be planned before the wall is closed.

Where they work best

• Vessel sinks: a wall faucet avoids an extra-tall deck faucet and looks custom.
• Kitchens: a bridge or wall faucet over a farmhouse sink, and pot fillers over the range. See our pot filler guide.
• Tubs: classic wall-mount clawfoot tub faucets.

Spout reach

The water should land near the drain, not on the back of the bowl. Measure from the finished wall to the center of the drain and choose a spout reach close to that number.

Spout height

Set the spout a few inches above the rim of a vessel sink so hands fit underneath without splashing. The manufacturer's specification sheet gives a recommended height; follow it.

The rough-in valve

Most wall faucets need a valve inside the wall, set to the right depth for your wall finish. Tile thickness matters. Order the valve and trim together and give the valve to your plumber before drywall.

Cleaning and repair

No faucet base on the counter means nothing to scrub around. Cartridges are replaced from the front, so repairs rarely need the wall opened. See vessel sinks and faucet hole configurations.

Common questions

Are wall-mount faucets a good idea?

Yes, especially with vessel sinks and farmhouse sinks, as long as the valve is planned before the wall is finished.

How high should a wall-mount faucet be above a vessel sink?

A few inches above the rim. Follow the recommended height on the faucet specification sheet.

Can I add a wall-mount faucet to an existing bathroom?

Yes, but the wall has to be opened to install the valve and supply lines.