A Beginner's Guide to Replacing a Faucet Without Leaks
Replacing a faucet might seem like a job best left to a plumber, but with the right tools and a little preparation, it's a task many homeowners can handle themselves. Whether replacing an old, leaky faucet or simply giving a new look to your kitchen or bathroom, doing it yourself can save money and provide a sense of accomplishment, if done right. The key? Avoiding leaks from the start. Choose the right replacement faucet Before you begin, make sure you purchase a faucet that fits your sink configuration. Most sinks have one, two, or three holes. Count the holes in your current configuration and choose a faucet that matches. Many modern faucets come with optional base plates to cover the extra holes, which can offer more flexibility. Also, check that your water supply lines (hot and cold) are compatible with the new faucet. Otherwise, you may need adapters or new hoses, both of which are inexpensive and available at any hardware store. Turn off the water supply Under the sink, you...