I recently discovered that my bathtub faucet in a new home has a 2mm gap between it and the wall, which is sealed with silicone. When I pull the shower diverter, the faucet actually moves a bit. I reached out to the builder, and they told me that this situation is 'normal' and suggested just applying more silicone. I'm concerned that this is more of a temporary fix than a proper one, especially since the faucet and possibly the pipe are shifting. Shouldn't there be a bracket or something else securely holding the faucet in place instead of just relying on silicone? I'm eager to hear if others have faced this issue—should I challenge the builder's approach?
3 Answers
Nah, this isn't normal at all. A faucet should not rely solely on silicone. There should be a brass elbow or similar fitting mounted to a stud inside the wall to hold it in place. Sounds like the builder cut corners, and if the pipes are moving, it could lead to serious problems, including leaks. You should definitely stand your ground and insist on a proper repair. This isn't just about a wobbly faucet; it could lead to mold down the line.
You’re right to be concerned! The builder is definitely giving you a quick fix instead of a proper repair. The faucet should be secured to a bracket or pipe that’s anchored to the wall studs. If it’s shifting when you use the diverter, that could lead to leaks or other issues down the line. The only real fix is to open up the wall and properly secure everything. It may be a hassle, but it’s better than dealing with water damage later on.
Your concerns are completely valid! A faucet being secured just with silicone isn’t up to code. Over time, that movement can cause significant issues, like stressing the joints behind the wall and leading to leaks. The right fix might involve opening up the wall to add proper support. If the builder gives you too much grief, consider hiring a plumber to do it right and keep all your receipts!