How to Install Your New Overflow Plate

Whether you went with polished chrome or brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or polished brass, it’s going to look amazing in your tub.

Let’s get started.

Tools You’ll Need

Grab the following:

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Needlenose pliers
• Overflow washer
• Old toothbrush in soapy water (for cleaning out gunk)
• Silicone caulk
• Sponge

Step 1: Out with the Old…

Start by either covering your bathtub drain or closing it so as not to lose any screws. Unscrew the overflow plate and remove it.

Behind the overflow plate may be a bracket. If there is one, hold onto it with one hand and remove the screws with the screwdriver.

Step 2: Check If the Gasket Needs to Be Replaced

The rubber ring around the hole is there to prevent water from getting behind the surface of the tub. If your own overflow plate has been there for a while, this may need to be replaced. Simply work until you can grab one part of the gasket, then pull the whole ring out.

Step 3: De-gunkify

It’s the hard truth, folks: drains get gunky. If you remove your overflow plate and notice a bunch of black or green goo hanging about, grab that old toothbrush and get to work scrubbing it off.

Step 4: Replace the Gasket

Hold the new gasket in your hand. Notice how one side is thicker than the other? That side faces downwards, towards the drain. Begin working it into place.

Don’t get frustrated — it’s hard to put in a new gasket. Start by squeezing one part of it in, then work your way around it.

Step 5: …In with the New!

You’re almost there! Take your new overflow plate and examine the edges. You’ll notice that about half of it doesn’t have an edge. That side needs to face downward, towards the drain.

All of Kingston Brass’ overflow plates come with two screws. This simplifies installation by allowing you to screw directly onto the drainpipe with the two screws provided.

Step 6: (Optional) Use Caulk to Form a Seal

If you want to make sure water doesn’t get through the top of the drain plate, you can put a thin bead of silicone around the top to seal it off. This will prevent it from rusting prematurely. It’s recommended that you use a clear, 100% silicone caulk.

And you’re done!

Shop Overflow Plates at Kingston Brass

Enjoy the timeless pop of color that is your new overflow plate. Check out our other tub accessories to find matching styles for more eye-catching additions!