How to Replace Outdoor Faucet Spigot?

Have you noticed your outdoor faucet dripping nonstop, even when it’s turned off? Or maybe your garden hose doesn’t get enough water pressure anymore? These are common signs your outdoor spigot or hose bib needs to be replaced.

The good news? You don’t need to be a plumber to fix it. With a few basic tools and a little guidance, replacing an outdoor faucet spigot is a job most homeowners can handle on their own. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky tap, freeze damage, or just an old rusty fixture, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

We’ll keep it simple, and explain the tools and safety tips you need. So grab your wrench, and let’s get started—your new, drip-free outdoor faucet is just a few turns away.

Tools and Materials Needed to replace outdoor faucet spigot:

• New outdoor faucet/spigot (match thread size, often ½-inch in US)

• Adjustable wrenches or pipe wrench (for unscrewing)

• Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) to seal threads

• Bucket or towels (to catch water)

• (If needed) Drill or small chisel (to remove spigot set in concrete/stucco)

• Optional: Silicone caulk or concrete patch (to fill around the new faucet)

1. Shut Off Water Supply and Drain the Faucet

Before removing the spigot, turn off the water supply. Most homes have a main shut-off valve or a local stop valve for outdoor taps. In the USA/Canada this is often a valve in the basement or crawlspace.. Turn the valve clockwise to close it. Then open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water in the line.

Keep the faucet open so water in the pipe can escape – this avoids a mess when you unscrew the spigot. (In cold climates, make sure any frost-proof shutoff valves are also closed before winter.)

2. Remove the Old Outdoor Spigot

With the water off and faucet drained, remove the old spigot. Most outdoor faucets simply screw onto a threaded pipe. Use a large adjustable wrench or basin wrench to grip the faucet or the packing nut at its base. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the spigot from the wall.

If the faucet is stuck (due to rust or being set in concrete/stucco), you may need to gently chip away surrounding masonry or drill small holes in the wall around the faucet. Be careful not to drill into the faucet itself – aim next to it to loosen the surrounding material. Once free, pull the old spigot out of the pipe end.

3. Clean Pipe Threads and Install the New Spigot

Now prepare the threaded pipe stub for the new faucet. Clean any debris or old tape off the pipe threads. Wrap the male threads with plumber’s (Teflon) tape in a clockwise direction – two to three wraps is usually enough. This helps seal the connection and prevent leaks.

Next, screw the new spigot into place. Hand-tighten it until snug, making sure the faucet handle is positioned upright. Then use your wrench to finish tightening – turn clockwise until the spigot feels firm against the wall. Do not over-tighten, as this can strip the threads. The new outdoor faucet should sit flush with the wall. Properly applying tape and tightening the faucet prevents leaks when the water is turned back on. (If your replacement spigot has a separate packing nut, tighten it firmly as well.)

4. Turn Water Back On and Check for Leaks

With the new spigot installed, restore the water. Turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to let water flow back into the line. Close any inside faucets opened earlier, then go outside and open the new spigot fully. Check carefully for drips around the base or handle. If water seeps out, tighten the spigot a bit more or reapply tape. It’s normal to see a steady stream of water (or a few drips) briefly as air clears from the pipe. Once the water is running clear and the faucet is fully open, make sure no water is leaking where the spigot meets the wall.

Also check the faucet for any leaks at the hose connection. Attach a garden hose and turn it on to test the threads. If you notice any small leaks, simply tighten the faucet slightly or add more Teflon tape to the pipe threads. A properly installed outdoor faucet spigot should hold tight without any drips.

5. Patch Wall and Protect Your New Spigot

Finish by sealing around the faucet. Fill any gaps in stucco or concrete with patching cement or caulk to prevent moisture from entering the wall. If your spigot uses a decorative flange or escutcheon plate, press it into place for a neat look.

Finally, protect the new faucet from freezing (especially in Canada, northern USA or cold UK winters). If you have an interior shutoff valve for the spigot, close it and open the faucet during winter to drain any water. Cover the spigot with an insulated cap or wrap to keep it from freezing in extreme cold. Regular maintenance and winterizing can extend the life of your outdoor faucet.

Congratulations – your outdoor faucet spigot has been replaced. Now you can use your garden hose without leaks or worry about drips when it’s shut off. Keeping an eye on the faucet each spring and fall for any cracks or corrosion will help prevent future problems. A tight, leak-free outdoor faucet not only saves water but also spares you from muddy walls and unwanted water bills

When to Call a Professional Plumber?

While replacing an outdoor faucet spigot is a task many homeowners can handle, there are times when it’s better—and safer—to leave it to a licensed plumber. If you run into any of the following issues, it’s a good idea to take help of professional plumber:

1. The Faucet is Soldered or Glued

If the existing spigot is not threaded and appears to be soldered (common with copper pipes) or glued (in PVC systems), special tools and skills are required to safely remove and replace it.

2. Water Shut-Off Problems

If you’re unable to locate or turn off the main water supply, or if the shut-off valve itself is stuck or leaking, it’s best to get professional help to avoid flooding or pipe damage.

3. Leaking Inside the Wall

If you notice water dripping inside your wall or basement after installing the new spigot, you may be dealing with a cracked pipe or a failed joint. This can lead to structural water damage if not handled properly.

4. Pipe is Damaged or Corroded

Old or corroded pipes may break when you try to unscrew the faucet. If the threads are worn out or the pipe is fragile, a plumber can safely replace or repair the pipe section without causing more damage.

5. Freezing or Bursting History

If your outdoor faucet has frozen and burst in the past, a plumber can install a frost-proof spigot or reroute the pipe to better protect it in the future.

FAQs

Q1. How do I know if my outdoor faucet needs replacing?
A leaking spigot, low water pressure, visible rust, or a faucet that won’t fully shut off are common signs. If it’s more than 10–15 years old or shows signs of freeze damage, replacement is a good idea.

Q2. Can I replace an outdoor faucet spigot myself?
Yes, if the pipe isn’t damaged and the spigot is threaded, it’s usually a simple DIY job. Just shut off the water, unscrew the old spigot, apply plumber’s tape, and screw on the new one.

Q3. Do I need special tools to change an outdoor faucet?
Not really. You’ll need an adjustable wrench, plumber’s tape (Teflon tape), and possibly a bucket and rags. If the faucet is stuck, a pipe wrench or penetrating oil might help.

Q4. What type of spigot should I buy as a replacement?
Choose a spigot that matches the existing thread size (usually ½ inch or ¾ inch) and consider frost-proof types if you live in a colder climate (USA, Canada, UK winters).

Q5. How do I stop my outdoor faucet from leaking after replacement?
Ensure the pipe threads are clean, use fresh plumber’s tape, and tighten the new spigot securely (but don’t over-tighten). If it still leaks, check for cracks in the pipe or fittings.

Q6. Do I have to turn off the main water supply?
Yes. Shut off the main water valve or the valve that controls outdoor faucets before removing the spigot. This prevents flooding or water spray when you unscrew the old one.

Q7. How long does it take to replace an outdoor spigot?
Most replacements take about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on accessibility and how easily the old faucet comes off.

Q8. Is plumber’s tape necessary when installing a new spigot?
Yes. Teflon tape helps seal the threaded connection and prevents leaks. Wrap it around the male threads (clockwise) 2–3 times before installing the new faucet.

Q9. Can cold weather damage my outdoor spigot?
Yes. Water left in the pipe can freeze and crack the spigot or pipe. Use frost-free faucets or winterize by shutting off the interior valve and draining the line.

Q10. When should I call a plumber instead of doing it myself?
Call a plumber if the spigot is soldered, if the pipe is damaged or leaking inside the wall, or if you can’t shut off the water supply safely.