Clawfoot Tub Water Line Shut-Off Valve Installation

Determine whether you need straight or angle stops. Clawfoot tub source pipes usually come up from the floor, requiring straight stops. Slide a bell escutcheon over the 1/2-inch male IPS (iron pipe size) cold and hot water pipes. Ensure that the escutcheons fit flat against the floor while providing enough access above the bell to the threaded pipe onto which the stops will be installed.

Apply plumber's tape to the threads on both the hot and cold IPS pipes. Use an adjustable wrench to install the shut-off valve onto the pipe, turning clockwise to tighten. Tighten until the valve is tight and the handle is in an accessible position. Repeat this for the other valve.

Apply plumber's tape to the threads of the supply tubes. Hand-tighten the supply pipe into the top of the shut-off valve. Hold the valve with an adjustable wrench to keep it from turning, while tightening the supply tube clockwise with a strap wrench into the valve. Turn the tube until the pipe is tight. The strap wrench will prevent scratches to the decorative supply tube. Repeat this for the other supply pipe. Connect the supply lines to the tub faucet.