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Plumbingaka: sillcockaka: outdoor faucetaka: spigotaka: bibb

Hose Bib

In Plain English

An outdoor spigot with a threaded end where you connect a garden hose.

Definition

An outdoor faucet with a threaded outlet designed for connecting garden hoses, typically mounted on an exterior wall. Hose bibs require backflow prevention to protect the potable water supply and are often specified as frost-free (anti-siphon) types in cold climates. The freeze-protected version has a long stem that holds the shutoff valve inside the heated building.

Why It Matters in Bidding

Hose bibs are a small line item that triggers code requirements estimators forget to price: backflow preventers, frost-free length, and dedicated penetrations through the building envelope. On larger jobs the count adds up, and substituting a standard bib for a required frost-free anti-siphon model invites a failed inspection and a callback during cold-weather punch list.

Example

Reviewing the plumbing schedule on a retail bid, the estimator counts twelve frost-free hose bibs with vacuum breakers and adds wall-penetration labor that the original takeoff missed.

Related Terms

Backflow PreventerCross-ConnectionValveSupply Line

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Plumbing codes require a backflow preventer, typically an atmospheric or hose-connection vacuum breaker, on every hose bib to protect the potable supply from contamination. Estimators should confirm whether the bib has an integral vacuum breaker or needs an added device, since that affects both material cost and inspection compliance.
In any climate where pipes can freeze. Frost-free (freeze-proof) bibs place the shutoff valve inside the heated wall via a long stem, preventing burst pipes. They cost more and require coordinating stem length to wall thickness, so verify the spec and detail before pricing rather than substituting cheaper standard bibs.
Count each location from the floor plans and exterior elevations, then match to the plumbing fixture schedule for type, height, and backflow device. Include the supply rough-in, wall penetration, and any sleeve or escutcheon. On multi-building sites, verify each structure separately so none are missed in the rollup.

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