The Complete Overview of External Tower Bathtub Drains

External tower bathtub drains have been around for decades, especially in older homes and buildings constructed prior to World War II. These unique drains feature a vertical tower structure outside the tub that serves as both a stopper and overflow. While they may seem outdated compared to modern bath drain systems, external tower drains have their benefits. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about selecting, installing, maintaining, and repairing external tower bathtub drains.

We'll discuss what exactly external tower drains are, why you might want to use one, important considerations before installing, how to properly replace an old or damaged unit, and tips for keeping your tower drain working properly for years to come. Whether you're renovating a historic home or just looking to add a decorative flair to your bathroom, this overview will provide key information so you can make the most informed decision.

What Are External Tower Bathtub Drains?

An external tower bathtub drain gets its name from the vertical tower design that stands outside the tub. The tower structure features an open pipe that serves as the actual drain. At the base of the pipe, underneath the bathtub, is a standard horizontal drain with a p-trap that connects to the waste water plumbing pipes.

On the interior side of the bathtub is a flat or domed strainer plate with small perforations that allow water to flow down into the drain pipe while catching debris and hair. Some tower drains have an additional opening here for the stopper mechanism. The strainer plate can usually be removed for easy cleaning.

Key Components of an External Tower Drain

Here are the key components that make up a tower bathtub drain assembly:

• Exterior tower pipe - The visible vertical pipe that carries water down into the horizontal drain.
• Interior strainer plate - The flat or dome-shaped strainer with small holes to catch debris.
• Stopper seal (optional) - A rubber seal on the interior side that creates a water-tight seal when closed.
• Horizontal drain lines - Connects to the tower pipe and features a standard p-trap.
• Overflow pipe - Located higher up to prevent overflow.

How an External Tower Drain Works

As water goes down the tower pipe, it enters the horizontal arm of a p-trap drain line underneath the tub which then flows into the building's waste water pipes. An overflow connection higher up the tower pipe prevents the tub from overfilling. When open, the tower pipe serves as the main drain. Some drains also have an overflow drain separate from the tower.

The key benefit of this style of drain is airflow. Unlike modern pop-up style tub drains which rely on mechanical means to release water, the open tower pipe promotes continuous airflow through the drain system. This helps prevent odor buildup and drying out of p-traps. They also reduce the risk of overflows by providing a highly visible indicator.

Considerations Before Installing

While tower drains have their advantages, they also come with some important considerations. Here's what to think about before installing an external tower bathtub drain:

• Can take up valuable floor space around the tub
• The exposed pipe may not fit modern bathroom aesthetics
• Requires careful planning around windows and plumbing lines
• Special replacement parts can be difficult to source
• Installation may be complicated depending on existing tub drain setup

You'll also want to measure carefully to choose the right drain height. Tower drains come in a range of different heights from 13" to 28". Make sure you select one that properly matches your bathtub's height and overflow position.

Choosing the Right External Tower Tub Drain

Tower drains are sold today from specialty manufacturers that focus on vintage and antique-style plumbing fixtures. Here's what to look for when shopping for an external tower bathtub drain for your project:

Materials

External tower drains can be made from different materials like:

• Solid brass - Highest quality option with great looks and longevity
• Enameled steel - Colorful and affordable enameled coatings over steel
• Plastic - Lightweight but prone to chips and scratches

Brass is generally preferred for its durability and decorative appeal. Plastic may be suitable for temporary fixes. The enamel coating applied to some steel drains provides an attractive colored finish.

Design Styles

From simple tubes to intricately patterned towers, you can find many different exterior drain designs to match your desired look such as:

• Plain straight tower pipes
• Fluted column designs
• Ornate shapes and patterns

Dimensions

Be sure to measure the height from the top of your existing tub to the bathroom floor. Typical external tower drain sizes include:

• 13-inch
• 17-inch
• 21-inch
• 28-inch

Many drains can be cut down if they end up slightly too tall. The tower pipe diameter can range from 1 1/4" to 2" across. Check your current drain outlet size for the best fit.

Drain Performance Factors

When selecting a replacement external tower drain, also consider:

• Flow rate - Measure your existing drain hole size to choose a matching or better flow rate.
• Stopper mechanism - Replace missing or broken stopper seals for better tub filling control.
• Hair catchers - Many units now include modern debris catching strainer baskets.

How to Install an External Tower Bathtub Drain

Installing a new tower drain or replacing an existing antique drain requires careful planning and precision. Here are the key steps involved:

1. Turn Off Water Supply Lines

Start by locating the shut-off valves for the bathtub's hot and cold water supply lines. Turn them clockwise fully to prevent leaks during drain work.

2. Remove Old Drain Components

Take out the strainer plate from inside the tub. Unscrew any fasteners securing the tower pipe to the tub and surrounding flooring. Detach the p-trap or horizontal drain arm as needed to fully remove the old drain.

3. Clean Out the Drain Hole

Use a utility knife to scrape and remove any old plumber's putty, sealant, or gunk around the drain hole. Ensure the hole and threaded area is clean for the new drain to seal properly.

4. Dry Fit the New Drain

Test fitting all the new drain components before permanently attaching with sealant is an important step. Start with the horizontal drain lines reconnected to existing plumbing. Then insert new tower pipe into the drain hole opening both inside and outside the tub.

5. Apply Plumber's Putty

Once test fitting is complete, wipe the underside of the exterior drain flange clean and apply plumber's putty around the flange. Slowly insert the drain back into the hole, pressing the flange putty firmly into place against the tub.

6. Tighten Flange Bolts

From inside the tub, slide the rubber gasket and strainer plate into place over the drain tailpiece. Add a thin layer of putty here as well. Secure using the flange bolts and tighten both hand tight and with a wrench.

If replacing both drains, now is the best time to reconnect the overflow pipe by fitting it onto the overflow outlet on the new drain assembly.