Faucet Replacement Planning Guide

Plan before buying a faucet — hole count, shutoffs, corrosion, and when to call a plumber.

Faucets look simple from the top, but the important details are often underneath the sink. Planning first can prevent buying the wrong faucet.

Before buying a faucet, check these

→Number of holes in the sink or counter

→Spacing between holes (4-inch centerset or 8-inch widespread)

→Faucet type and style you want

→Supply line connection type under the sink

→Whether shutoff valves turn and are accessible

→Amount of space in the under-sink cabinet

→Sink or counter material — stone, porcelain, and thin materials need care

→Whether old faucet connections are corroded or stuck

→Whether any existing leaks need to be addressed first

Common faucet styles

Single-hole

One hole for the faucet body. Common in modern bathrooms and kitchens.

Centerset

Two or three holes, 4-inch spacing. Very common in bathroom sinks.

Widespread

Three separate holes, 8-inch or more spacing. More installation complexity.

Wall-mounted

Mounted on the wall above the sink. Often requires professional installation — hidden supply lines inside the wall.

Pull-down / pull-out sprayer

Kitchen faucet with integrated spray hose. Check under-sink clearance for hose weight.

Wall-mounted faucets often require a professional plumber due to hidden wall supply lines.

Safe planning questions

?Can the shutoff valves be turned off? Are they accessible?
?Is there visible corrosion on the supply lines or drain fittings?
?Is there enough under-sink space for a new faucet body and lines?
?Do the supply lines look old, brittle, or cracked?
?Is the sink or countertop material fragile?
?Does the product require plumber's putty or a gasket? (Check product instructions.)
?Are there local permit or building management rules that apply?

When to stop and call a plumber

✗Shutoff valve does not turn or is stuck

✗Old connections are heavily corroded

✗Pipe moves or leaks when you touch it

✗Wall-mounted faucet installation

✗Any active leak that needs to be addressed

✗Apartment or building with plumbing rules

✗Mold or water damage under the sink

✗Unsure about connection types or fittings

Faucet Planning Helper

Answer what you can see safely without moving or disassembling anything.

Faucet location

Sink hole count

Hole spacing

Shutoff valves visible under the sink?

Shutoff valves turn easily?

Visible corrosion on fittings or pipes?

Apartment or shared building?

Notes (optional)

Faucet Replacement Planning Checklist

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Counted existing sink holes and hole spacing before shopping

Verified shutoff valves are accessible and turn easily

Checked for visible corrosion on existing connections

Measured under-sink cabinet depth for new faucet body clearance

Noted supply line connection type

Checked whether counter or sink material is fragile

Confirmed faucet style matches hole count and spacing

Read faucet product instructions before purchasing

Did not attempt installation without accessible working shutoffs

Called a plumber for stuck valves, corrosion, or active leaks

Did not force stuck fittings or overtighten connections

Confirmed apartment or building rules before making plumbing changes

This guide is planning guidance only. Plumbing conditions vary. Stop and call qualified help for stuck shutoffs, active leaks, corrosion, water damage, wall-mounted faucets, shared building rules, or any uncertainty.

Know When to Call a Pro

Call a plumber for stuck valves, active leaks, corroded connections, old brittle pipes, water damage, wall-mounted faucets, or if you are unsure about the plumbing.

See full safety guide →