Outside Tap Cost Guide & Money-Saving Tips
Whether your new tap is for the garden or your front drive, learn all about faucet installation costs so you can be sure you are getting good value for money.
In this price guide, we will cover the following:
- Is An Outdoor Tap Worth the Cost?
- Labour Cost to Install an Outdoor Water Tap
- How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Outdoor Tap?
- Different Types of Outdoor Taps and Their Costs
- Cost-Saving Tips for Outdoor Faucet Installation
- Find Outdoor Tap Installers Near You on MyBuilder
- FAQ Common Questions
Is An Outdoor Tap Worth the Cost?
You may not just want an outdoor tap, but you might need it. This is because it’s essential for outdoor cleaning or gardening tasks. However, even if you’re definitely going to buy one, it’s important to know your options first.
The benefits include easy access to outdoor water, increased property value, and improved efficiency. In the UK you can expect to pay £50 to £200 depending on the complexity of the installation, material costs, and labour charges.
The table below summarises different types of outdoor taps and their installation costs:
| Tap Type | Cost (Price Range) |
|---|---|
| Standard Tap | £50 - £100 |
| Frost-Free Tap | £100 - £150 |
| Mixer Tap | £150 - £200 |
By choosing the right type of outdoor tap, you not only ensure consistent water access but you can make every task easier and faster.
Labour Cost to Install an Outdoor Water Tap
In more complex cases, calling in a professional plumber is the most practical choice for your outside tap installation. Homes with intricate plumbing systems or unusual layouts can easily run into costly issues if handled incorrectly.
Likewise, when major pipe rerouting is required, a plumber brings the know-how and specialised tools needed to ensure a safe, efficient, and long-lasting installation.
When considering costs, installation fees by plumbing professionals range from £50 to £100 outside central cities and £75 to £150 within them, depending on the job's complexity. In contrast, a DIY project might only cost around £80 for materials and fittings.
MyBuilder Tip: If you notice signs of water leakage or weak water pressure from your faucet, it may indicate underlying issues that require professional assessment costs. Hiring a professional helps ensure the job is done properly the first time and can prevent potentially costly repairs later.
To get a service more tailored to your needs, simply post your job on MyBuilder and connect with a tradesperson near you.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Outdoor Tap?
Outdoor faucets, over time, can become prone to wear and tear, requiring a replacement to maintain efficient water flow and prevent leaks. Dripping, reduced water pressure, and rusting are common reasons why you may wish to replace an old tap.
On average, UK homeowners can expect to pay £60 – £120 for a straightforward replacement, including labour and materials.
Cost Breakdown:
New tap unit: Standard outdoor taps start from £6 – £15, while frost-resistant or designer taps can cost £30 – £60.
Labour: A plumber will usually charge £50 – £100 for the job, depending on location and call-out minimums. In London and the South East, plumber costs can be slightly higher.
You can get in touch with a plumber near you easily on MyBuilder. Simply post your job and they will be in contact from the comfort of your phone.
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Different Types of Outdoor Taps and Their Costs
When choosing an outdoor tap, there are several types to consider, each with distinct features and benefits. Understanding these types and their associated costs can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.
Standard Outdoor Taps: Standard outdoor taps are the most common type found in UK gardens. They deliver cold water and are simple in design and function.
- Benefits: Low cost, easy to install and maintain, versatile for garden activities like watering plants or washing cars.
- Costs: Typically range from £10 to £30 depending on the material and design.
Frost-Free Outdoor Taps: Frost-free outdoor taps prevent water from freezing inside the tap during the winter, reducing the risk of burst pipes.
- Benefits: Protect against freezing and bursting, have a longer lifespan, and require minimal maintenance in cold weather.
- Costs: Typically range from £20 to £60 depending on the complexity and brand.
Mixer Taps for Outdoor Use: Mixer taps allow you to blend hot and cold water, making them ideal for cleaning that requires warm water.
- Benefits: Versatile temperature control for washing pets or delicate plants, multipurpose use.
- Costs: Typically range from £30 to £80 depending on the design and material quality.
Cost-Saving Tips for Outdoor Faucet Installation
Adding an outdoor faucet is a practical way to make life easier in the garden, and with a few clever tricks, you can keep costs down while still getting the convenience you need.
Cost-saving tips for new outdoor taps:
- Source materials from local suppliers to potentially lower material costs.
- Schedule installation during off-peak seasons when labour costs might be lower.
- Compare multiple quotes from different plumbers to find a good price.
- Consider a basic tap model if aesthetics are not a priority.
- Use existing nearby water connections to minimise installation complexity.
- Handle minor tasks, like trench digging, yourself to reduce labour charges.
Find Outdoor Tap Installers Near You on MyBuilder
Whether you’re looking to install a new outdoor tap or replace an old one, finding the right plumber doesn’t have to be difficult. With MyBuilder, you can quickly connect with verified tradespeople in your area.
Don't wait, find your plumber now on MyBuilder and get this job completed with confidence.
FAQ: Common Questions Readers Ask About Outdoor Tap Installation
What factors influence the cost to install an outdoor tap?
Several factors can affect the cost of installing an outdoor tap, including the location of the tap relative to existing plumbing, the type of tap being installed, and the difficulty of access to the site.
Other considerations include whether backflow prevention devices are required and the fee charged by plumbers, which can vary based on regional rates in the UK.
What are the potential benefits of having an outdoor water faucet?
An outdoor water faucet provides multiple benefits, including easy access to water for gardening, cleaning, or filling a pool. It enhances convenience for activities like car washing or patio cleaning. Additionally, an efficient outdoor tap setup can help conserve indoor water usage, potentially leading to savings on water bills.
Can replacing an outdoor faucet reduce future maintenance costs?
Yes, replacing an outdated or faulty outdoor faucet with a new, high-quality model can reduce your future maintenance. Newer models tend to be more durable and efficient, so you won’t need to prepare for replacement as frequently.
What practical tips can help lower the cost to install an outside water tap?
You can often keep costs down by fitting the tap close to your existing plumbing, which reduces extra pipework. A simple tap design is usually sufficient if you don’t need advanced features, and it will save you money too.
What are the steps involved in the installation of an outdoor tap?
Installing an outdoor tap usually starts with choosing the right location and turning off the water supply. If needed, a hole is drilled through the wall to run the pipework, which is then connected to your existing indoor plumbing. Sealant is applied to prevent any leaks, and the tap is fixed securely to the wall. Once everything is in place, the system is tested to make sure it works correctly, with any final adjustments made.
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