Understanding the Two Installation Types

A wall mount claw foot faucet and a tub mount faucet serve similar functions, but they are not the same. The main difference lies in where and how they are installed. Wall mount faucets attach directly to a vertical wall surface, while tub mount faucets install onto the rim or deck of the claw foot tub itself. Because claw foot tubs are freestanding, the mounting type determines plumbing layout, installation height, and water supply positioning.

Installation Surface and Structural Requirements

Wall mount claw foot faucets require a solid vertical surface behind the bathtub. This surface must contain the necessary plumbing lines, properly spaced and reinforced. The faucet body attaches to in-wall fittings that must be precisely aligned. By contrast, tub mount faucets attach to the tub’s rim or a built-in platform. These faucets rely on the tub’s structure for support, and the water supply lines rise from the floor rather than the wall.

Plumbing Configuration Differences

The plumbing arrangement for each installation method varies:

• Wall mount faucets use in-wall plumbing with fixed spacing and require accurate rough-in before any tile or wall finishing.

• Tub mount faucets connect to freestanding or exposed supply lines that rise vertically alongside the tub.

Because claw foot tubs sit away from the wall, tub mount faucets are often chosen when wall plumbing is not available or when the homeowner prefers exposed pipes for a traditional aesthetic.

Height and Reach Considerations

Wall mounted claw foot faucets are positioned based on the tub’s height and the desired water fall point. They must be installed at a height that prevents excessive splash while providing enough clearance for comfortable filling. Tub mounted faucets, however, come pre-designed to reach into the tub based on standard rim dimensions. The spout reach and height on tub-mounted designs are fixed to match common claw foot tub rim measurements.

Style and Design Differences

Although both faucet types can have vintage or classic styling, tub mount faucets often include features such as integrated handheld shower attachments, riser pipes, and decorative exposed supply lines. Wall mounted faucets tend to have cleaner lines and rely on concealed plumbing, creating a more minimal appearance. The choice depends on whether the design preference leans toward exposed hardware or a cleaner wall-focused setup.

Compatibility With Claw Foot Tubs

Not every claw foot tub can use either mounting style. Some tubs are designed specifically for deck or rim mounting, while others require wall mounting because they lack a sufficient flat rim for faucet installation. Before selecting a faucet, installers measure the tub’s rim width, placement, and distance from the nearest wall to confirm which mounting type is suitable.

Installation Complexity and Cost

Wall mounted installations usually require more labor due to in-wall plumbing, reinforcement, and finishing work. Tub mounted faucets are simpler to install because the plumbing remains exposed and more accessible. However, exposed supply lines must be aligned neatly and leveled for an attractive appearance.