Do sink taps have a standard size nut?

TequilaMockingBird

I've a few wobbly taps. The plastic nuts seem to have cracked and I was wondering if I could replace them myself, but I can't see online what size nuts to get. Or do I need to buy new taps?

jack of all

You most likely need a couple of 1/2" tap back nuts, like these:

http://www.screwfix.com/p/bsp-flanged-backnuts-pack-of-2/66268

The 1/2" refers to the pipe diameter (nominal size)- this would be the case with wash basin taps, bath taps would be 3/4". The plastic ones tend to become brittle after a few years, especially on the hot feed. If using brass tap nuts use a rubber/ plastic washer underneath the flange and don't overtighten or you could crack the basin! Also the seal/ washer provided (the large one that slips over the tap tail) with most taps tends to be quite thin, a good plumbers merchant can supply thicker ones which will grip the tap and prevent it moving in the basin tap hole. I don't know the proper name for this seal/ washer.

TequilaMockingBird

Brilliant, thanks so much. Don't suppose you know the size for a kitchen sink mixer tap and a toilet flush handle? My house is falling apart!

jack of all

A monobloc mixer tap is normally secured with a 11mm nut as far as I can remember, with a threaded stud screwed into the tap body. You'd need a deep socket or preferably a box spanner like this to get at a tap already in place:

http://www.axminster.co.uk/monument-mono-tap-back-nut-box-spanners

I don't know about the toilet handle, but if the nut is gone there's a good chance the handle is pretty worn out anyway so you might be better off replacing it.....

TequilaMockingBird

You're very good to take the time to reply. Much appreciated. I'll have a go, and then no doubt call a plumber.