The Best Freestanding Tub Faucets - Picks by Bob Vila

Oct 22, 2024

By Bob Beacham

Updated on Apr 14, 2023 3:56 PM EDT

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Stand-alone tubs are hugely popular, and they demand equally stylish freestanding tub faucets to complete a coordinated bathroom look. However, appearance is just one aspect of putting together that perfect bathing experience. Buying on looks alone could be an expensive mistake.

Materials, performance, functionality, and fitting are all vital aspects that you’ll want to consider when choosing the right tub filler. Unfortunately, important technical information can sometimes be hard to find, and the jargon can be confusing. This comprehensive article covers not only the wide variety of models available but also discusses the features that separate the best freestanding tub faucets from those that should be avoided.

The choice of faucets suitable for use with a freestanding bathtub is vast, and we spent many hours researching different manufacturers and retailers to ensure we had a clear picture not only of the range available but how they are made and how they perform.

Style is a key element, and our picks offer something for every bathroom decor. They include traditional taps, more modern levers, and shower heads. We sought top examples of each. Cost is always important, but while we looked at several affordable freestanding tub faucets, our main focus was on quality and reliability.

The following bathtub faucet types satisfy a diverse range of needs in terms of taste, performance, and budget. Shoppers should be able to quickly find the right model for any freestanding bathtub.

While there is not one best freestanding tub faucet for everyone—as personal taste obviously has a major impact—the Wowkk Waterfall faucet offers a variety of features that can satisfy a wide range of needs.

The underlying material is heavy-duty brass, which then has one of five finishes applied, thus offering solutions for a variety of decor. Its attractive waterfall spout swivels 360 degrees to allow for just-right positioning. At 35 inches tall, it offers 34 inches of tub spout height above tub, letting the water flow easily into any freestanding tub. Its flow rate is 6 gallons per minute (GPM), with 2.5 GPM for the shower head. A simple button allows you to switch between the two, and a single lever controls temperature and flow. The faucet valve has a ceramic cartridge that is renowned for producing a smoother action and having better durability than plastic, rubber, or metal alternatives.

Get the Wowkk freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

The Senlesen tub-filler design reflects a modern aesthetic. The 360-degree spout looks particularly elegant and slender and offers a 6 GPM flow rate while the shower head is rated at 2.5 GPM. Construction is brass, and six finishes are offered. A sleek single lever controls temperature and flow along with an easy-to-use water-diverter knob. The cartridge is a reliable ceramic model. With a spout exit height of 31.5 inches, this bathtub faucet coordinates best with shallower tubs. Finishes are applied using the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, which produces a protective layer much like electroplating but without harmful chemicals.

On the downside, there have been occasional problems with the handle or knob breaking, but the manufacturer appears to be aware of the issue and is willing to rectify it for customers.

Get the Senlesen freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

When it comes to high-quality freestanding bathroom faucets, few brands have a reputation that can rival Delta. This Trinsic tub filler is a fine example. Although components are imported, each is assembled in the U.S. with great attention to detail.

The high-arc design provides a tub faucet height with plenty of clearance for even the tallest tubs. The flow rate of the faucet itself is an impressive 10 GPM. The shower head meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense criteria at just 1.75 GPM. WaterSense shower heads use no more than 2.0 GPM and are certified to use at least 20 percent less water than other models. The extending hose can stretch out to 82 inches for all-around access. An auto-resetting diverter means owners never have to worry about turning off the shower, while overall ease of use helps it meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance standards. However, the necessary rough-in valve kit is not included in the price.

Get the Delta freestanding tub faucet at The Home Depot, Amazon (in black), or Wayfair.

The thing that sets the AKDY one-handle faucet apart is its unique spout design that creates a sweeping curtain of water. For those looking to make a statement in their bathroom, this would certainly be an attractive feature. The wide, flat top of this faucet also provides a convenient spot for shampoo or gel while bathing.

Beneath the bright chrome surface, the structure is durable corrosion-resistant brass. Other elements, like the single control lever and diverter knob, are simple, functional, and convenient.

The only drawback of the AKDY freestanding faucet is the flow rate, which at 3.6 GPM could be a little slow for large tubs, particularly in households with low water pressure. Although the GPM of the shower head is not given, it must be 2.5 GPM or less to comply with federal requirements.

Get the AKDY freestanding tub faucet at The Home Depot or Wayfair.

Those who have chosen a traditional claw-foot, lion’s paw, or ball-and-claw bathtub will certainly want to consider something like this vintage stand-alone tub faucet from Gotonovo. The “telephone cradle” for the shower head is a delightful touch, as are the white inserts in the knobs.

Although this model has classic elegance, it’s all modern manufacturing below the surface to ensure smooth operation and long-term durability. Solid brass is used for construction with a hard-wearing finish in a choice of three colors. The double-cross knobs have ceramic cartridges for smooth operation and easy temperature control.

A flow rate of just 1.41 GPM is lower than would normally be expected, but claw-foot and similar tubs are usually of modest size, so it should be adequate for the purpose.

Get the Gotonovo freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

For some people, the key to relaxation is a large tub full of piping-hot water. In these cases, a faucet with a high flow rate is a necessity; otherwise, there’s a danger the water will cool faster than the tub can be filled. With an impressive 11.9 GPM, the LLGG stand-alone tub faucet meets this requirement with ease. The shower head meets legal requirements with a flow rate of 2.5 GPM.

As expected, the main construction is brass. There is a choice of five hard-wearing electroplated finishes. A single lever controls flow and temperature with a clearly marked diverter. The faucet cartridge is a reliable ceramic unit. There have been a few reports of leaks, though faulty installation could be to blame.

Get the LLGG freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

If a bathroom already has a shower space or cubicle, then having one on a freestanding tub faucet might be unnecessary. This Aolemi single-function model provides a solution that is both neat and affordable.

With a flow rate of 6 GPM, it will fill the tub as quickly as most rivals. The faucet can rotate 360 degrees, and the lever is smart yet simple, providing both temperature and flow control. Construction is brass, with a choice of three durable finishes.

With no shower head or diverter, the assembly should be a little easier. The lack of complexity is also reflected in the price. Reviews reveal that most owners are happy with their purchase, but some have reported faults in hoses or connections.

Get the Aolemi freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

The majority of freestanding tub faucets have a single-lever design and a diverter to switch between the faucet and shower head. Many find these easy to use, but if the diverter is left in the shower position, it can result in water being sprayed all over the bathroom floor. Some diverter knobs are also quite small, and those with limited dexterity may struggle to operate them.

The sleek, modern Artiqua tub filler is unusual in that it has independent controls for both the faucet and shower head. Extended handles make them easy to use, and it’s always clear where the water is coming from. The main construction is brass with a choice of four popular finishes. The 360-degree high-arc spout sits 41.73 inches above the floor, thus accommodating even the deepest soaking tubs. A flow rate of 6 GPM means the water won’t get cold before the tub is filled.

Get the Artiqua freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

Some tubs, particularly claw-foot and similar models, have sides that slope quite steeply. This can be a problem with freestanding tub faucets that don’t have sufficient reach for water to fall normally. A short spout can also be jarring visually.

The five-handle Kingston Brass tub faucet overcomes this with a reach of over 9 inches. The highly decorative design perfectly complements traditional tubs. The brand is known for its high production standards, and the solid-brass construction is offered in eight different finishes. Its flow rate is also excellent at 7 GPM together with an eco-friendly 1.8-GPM shower head.

In the unlikely event that there are leaks above floor level, stop valves allow repairs to be made without lifting the base or floor. However, this feature and the two-hole configuration do make initial installation a little more complicated than most.

Get the Kingston Brass freestanding tub faucet at Amazon or Wayfair.

The Rozin freestanding tub faucet will appeal to those on a budget, or perhaps looking to save money on guest accommodation. The waterfall faucet is very popular, as is the straightforward single-handle operation. A diverter switches easily from the faucet to the shower. The former has an impressive flow rate of 11.9 GPM, while the latter is a common 2.5 GPM.

The Rozin freestanding tub filler comes in a choice of three finishes and either cylindrical or vintage shower heads. These features allow it to be matched to different tub styles and a variety of bathroom decor.

While the body of both styles is made of brass, both shower heads are ABS plastic, which may feel less sturdy in hand. Additionally, some users have found the flow rate doesn’t seem to meet expectations.

Get the Rozin freestanding tub faucet at Amazon.

Physical appearance and finish are what draw most people to a particular freestanding tub faucet, but there are a number of issues that should then be checked before making a final purchase. Each of the following affects durability, performance, ease of use, and overall cost. When added together, they have a major impact on how satisfying the faucet is to live with every day.

In most cases, the main material used for the body of the freestanding faucet is brass. It doesn’t rust, is easy to form into a variety of shapes, and is a good base for most finishes. Stainless steel, which is also highly corrosion-resistant and stronger than brass, is often used for hoses.

Finishes are usually electroplated. This method produces a coating that is resistant to wear or staining and is easy to clean. A freestanding tub faucet in brushed nickel is a popular finish option, as are brushed gold and chrome. Those looking for something more subtle might prefer oil-rubbed bronze or matte black. An increasingly popular finishing process is PVD (physical vapor deposition), which also creates a wear-resistant coating but uses a vacuum process that doesn’t require hazardous chemicals, and thus is more environmentally friendly.

The flow rate of freestanding tub faucets is something that’s often overlooked yet has a tremendous impact on performance. Figures are provided in gallons per minute (GPM), which is how fast a particular model will fill a tub. Many freestanding tubs are quite deep, so a soaking tub faucet, for example, needs to have a strong flow rate or the water will begin to cool before the tub is full enough to enjoy.

A flow rate of 6 GPM is common for most quality freestanding tub faucets. This would fill a standard 42-gallon tub in around 7 minutes. The best flow rate among our top picks is 11.9 GPM, thus capable of filling that same tub in a very rapid 3.5 minutes.

The flow rate of shower heads is restricted by federal law to a maximum of 2.5 GPM, though some eco-friendly models aimed at maximum water conservation are lower than this.

To turn on and control the flow of water, a floor-mount tub filler typically comes with either a pair of traditional “double-cross” handles or a single mixer lever. The first type is used to individually control the hot and cold feeds. The second controls both the strength of the flow and the temperature at the same time. A stand-alone tub faucet with a shower head fitted usually has a simple two-way diverter to change the flow from the faucet to the shower head. It may have a separate mixer lever, though these are less common.

No one type of handle is better than the other; it’s very much a matter of personal preference. However, those with dexterity issues or reduced strength may find levers easier to move.

To provide adequate stability, freestanding tub faucets need to be bolted to the floor. The most common type of mount is tripod shaped. Three bolts need to be inserted in the floor to hold this. For concrete floors, this is not a problem. However, wood floorboards may not be thick enough to accommodate these, so a beam needs to be located. The tripod is then dropped over these bolts, and nuts are used to secure it. It is also necessary to connect hot and cold water supplies at this point. These are then hidden by a decorative cover or base.

While none of the work is particularly complex, it’s unlikely that existing pipework will coincide with the desired freestanding tub faucet placement. People who are not confident of their DIY abilities may want to call in a plumber for the job.

It’s a good idea to decide on the type of tub before choosing the freestanding tub faucet. The height of the tub, the angle of the sides, and the thickness of the rim will impact the faucet height and the spout reach that are necessary. Installation instructions are usually provided but, depending on the country of manufacture, may be unclear. The following general tips should help avoid problems:

If you’re considering purchasing a freestanding tub faucet, you may still have a few questions about what type to buy and what kind of materials to look for. Look for answers to these questions below.

It may be possible, but generally, it is not recommended. The way a sink faucet sits on the sink is not usually the same as on a tub, and the mounting screws or brackets may be different. The flow rate of a kitchen faucet is unlikely to exceed 2.5 GPM, which is too slow for many tubs. Given the huge variety of bathtub faucets available, many at very reasonable prices, trying to use a sink faucet doesn’t seem worth the problems that are likely to be encountered.

Plastic faucets are usually the cheapest option. Like brass and stainless steel, they don’t corrode, but durability is the big issue. Plastic faucets simply aren’t very strong and are normally used for utility areas or outdoors—not for a tub. However, many good-quality tub faucets do have plastic components inside, often used as part of valve mechanisms and to hold ceramic cartridges. These are perfectly acceptable.

It may be possible to fit either a wall-mount faucet or a deck-mount faucet for freestanding tub use, but things like tub construction and whether or not it can be placed close enough to a wall will have a major impact. The big advantage a freestanding tub faucet has over other faucet types is that they can be fitted in the optimal position for the tub and overall bathroom layout without having to make compromises.

Researcher and product specialist Bob Beacham has been writing consumer-advice articles for national publications for more than a decade. He covers a wide variety of home and garden subjects and is known for providing information that is thorough yet easy to understand.

Contributing Writer

Bob Beacham is an engineer by trade and has spent 35 years working on everything from auto parts to oil rigs. He is also an avid DIY enthusiast. Bob started writing for the Bob Vila team in 2020 and covers tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement projects.

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