Why Don't Baths Come with Pre-Drilled Tap Holes?

If you've ever bought a bath and wondered why it doesn’t come with tap holes, you're not alone. It’s actually pretty common, and there’s a good reason for it. Manufacturers leave baths undrilled so they can work with different bathroom setups. Not everyone wants taps in the same place—some prefer them at the end, others in the middle, and some don’t want taps on the bath at all, opting for wall-mounted or freestanding ones instead.

Leaving the bath without holes gives you (or your plumber) the freedom to position the taps exactly where they suit your space best. Whether you're working with an awkward layout or just have a specific style in mind, having that flexibility is a big advantage. Plus, different types of taps need different hole sizes and placements, so it makes sense to drill them once you know exactly what you're working with.

Choosing the Right Tap Placement

Deciding where to put your taps isn’t just about looks—it’s about practicality too. The placement can affect how easy the taps are to use, how the water flows, and even how comfortable it is to lean back and relax in the bath.

If you’re planning to install a bath against a wall, taps are usually placed at one end, which keeps things simple and neat. But if you’re going for a more modern, freestanding style, you might prefer taps in the centre, making it easier for two people to share the bath without anyone knocking elbows.

Another thing to think about is your plumbing setup. If you're replacing an old bath, it's often easier to put the taps in the same spot to avoid extra pipework. But if you're starting from scratch, you’ve got the chance to position them wherever makes the most sense for your space.

Whichever option you go for, it's always best to decide on tap placement before drilling to avoid any costly mistakes. Once those holes are in, there's no going back.

What to Expect When Your Plumber Drills the Holes

Getting tap holes drilled into your bath might sound a bit daunting, but it’s a straightforward job for a professional plumber. They’ve got the right tools and know exactly how to do it without damaging the bath. It’s not something you’d want to try yourself unless you’re really confident, as one wrong move could crack the surface or leave you with uneven holes that might not fit the taps properly.

The plumber will usually start by measuring and marking exactly where the holes need to go based on your chosen taps. They'll then use a specialist drill bit designed for the bath material—whether it’s acrylic, steel, or something else. It’s all done carefully to avoid splintering or cracking, and once the holes are in, they’ll test everything to make sure the taps fit snugly and align properly with your plumbing.

The whole process doesn’t take long, and once it's done, your bath is ready to go. No mess, no stress—just a neat, professional finish.

Common Concerns and FAQs

A lot of people worry about drilling into a brand-new bath, and it’s understandable. Here are some common questions we get:

• What if the bath cracks?: This is a big concern, but with the right tools and technique, the risk is really low. Professional plumbers know how to drill cleanly without causing any damage. They’ll use masking tape to prevent slipping and take their time to get it right.

• Do I need to buy the taps first?: Yes, it’s always best to have your taps before drilling. Different taps need different hole sizes and spacing, so knowing exactly what you’re fitting helps avoid mistakes. If you're unsure, we can always help you choose the right ones.

• How long does it take?: Not long at all. Once everything’s measured up, drilling the holes usually takes just a few minutes per hole. The plumber will likely spend more time double-checking everything than actually drilling.

If you've got any other questions, it's always worth asking before installation to make sure you're happy with everything before the work starts.

The Benefits of a Custom-Drilled Bath

Having your bath drilled for taps after purchase might seem like an extra step, but it actually comes with a lot of benefits. For one, it means you’re not stuck with a pre-set design that might not work for your space. Whether you want the taps at one end, in the middle, or not on the bath at all, custom drilling gives you that choice.

It’s also a great option if you’re working with an existing plumbing setup. Sometimes, pipework can limit where taps can go, so having the flexibility to drill holes exactly where you need them can save a lot of hassle (and money) on extra plumbing work.

Another big advantage is that it keeps your options open when choosing taps. Pre-drilled baths often come with holes spaced to fit specific tap styles, which might not suit what you want. With a blank bath, you can choose from a wider range of taps without worrying if they'll fit.

Getting your bath drilled by a professional means you get exactly what you want, without being restricted by factory-set designs.

Step-by-Step Overview of the Drilling Process

If you're curious about how the drilling process works, here's a quick rundown of what happens once your plumber gets started:

• Marking the Placement: The plumber will carefully measure and mark the exact spot for the holes based on the taps you’ve chosen. This ensures they’re positioned correctly and evenly.

• Prepping the Surface: A bit of masking tape is often applied to the drilling area to help prevent slipping and reduce the risk of cracking, especially on acrylic baths.

• Drilling the Holes: Using a specialised hole saw or drill bit suited for the bath material, the plumber will drill through the surface with steady, even pressure to avoid any damage.

• Cleaning Up: Once the holes are made, they’ll be smoothed out to remove any rough edges, ensuring the taps sit flush against the bath surface.

• Fitting the Taps: Finally, the taps will be installed and securely fixed, with everything checked to make sure it’s watertight and aligned properly with your plumbing.

The whole process is quick, but precision is key to getting a clean finish and ensuring everything works as it should.

Tips for Homeowners Preparing for Installation

If you're getting a new bath and need tap holes drilled, a little preparation can help make the process smooth and stress-free. Here are a few things to keep in mind before the plumber arrives:

1. Have Your Taps Ready

It’s important to have the taps on hand before drilling starts. This way, the plumber can measure accurately and make sure the holes are the right size and spacing. If you’re still deciding on taps, it’s worth choosing them first to avoid any issues later.

2. Plan Your Tap Position

Think about where you want the taps to go. Consider practical things like how easy they’ll be to reach, how they’ll look in your bathroom, and whether they fit with your existing plumbing. If you're unsure, your plumber can offer advice based on what works best.

3. Clear the Area

Make sure the space around the bath is clear and accessible. This makes it easier for the plumber to work without obstacles and ensures there’s enough room to position tools and move around comfortably.

4. Ask Questions Beforehand

If you’ve got any concerns—like how long it will take or whether your bath material needs special care—ask your plumber before they start. It’s always better to be clear on the process so there are no surprises.

Being prepared means the installation can be done quickly and efficiently, leaving you with a bath that’s ready to use without any hassle.

Final Thoughts and Why It Matters

Buying a bath without pre-drilled tap holes might seem like a small detail, but it actually gives you more flexibility and control over your bathroom design. Whether you're working around existing plumbing or aiming for a specific look, having the taps drilled to suit your space ensures everything fits just right.

At Bathroom Supplies Online, we’re here to make the process as easy as possible. We can help you choose the right bath and taps. When you order from us, you can be confident that your plumber will have everything they need to get the job done properly.

If you're ready to find the perfect bath for your home, take a look at our range today or get in touch if you have any questions.