QA

How To Replace Tub Shower Valve

Can I replace a shower valve myself?

Shower valves can get damaged, you have to get a replacement immediately to prevent water from leaking out completely. A plumber can do a quick fix, but taking some easy steps to replace the shower valve yourself isn’t a bad idea. It is a way to save money and gain useful skills at the same time.

How much does it cost to replace a tub shower valve?

According to data from Porch, you can expect to pay around $310 for a valve and stem replacement, or slightly more if you replace the whole unit. Fees for replacing the whole shower valve can be as high as $540, with this price including the cost of the unit and labor.

Can you replace shower valve without removing tile?

Does the Repair Require Tile Replacement? This may require some cutting or removal of the tile around the shower valve opening to access the leak. While your plumber will take great care to cut or remove only enough tile as necessary, you could face some minor tile repair depending on the size of the opening.

Is it easy to replace shower fixtures?

Even if you’re not very experienced with bath or plumbing projects, many of the steps necessary for replacing an old or damaged shower faucet are relatively simple.

What are the different types of shower valves?

In a nutshell, there are three different types of shower valves on the market: pressure balancing shower valve, thermostatic shower valve and diverter shower valve.

What kind of shower valve do I have?

If you want to know how to identify the shower valve manufacturer, check behind the shower handle at the center of the trim plate for the manufacturer’s symbol or brand name. You will see one of the following shower faucet logos: K: the manufacturer is Kohler. M: the manufacturer is Moen.

Can you change shower faucet without replacing the valve?

The cover & handle, shower head and faucet head are all easily replaced. The faucet head usually has a compression with a hex head screw from the underneath or pipe threaded on to the water supply. So the answer is yes it can be replaced without replacing the valve.

How long does a shower cartridge last?

Today, they’re an important part of every home. They have a seemingly minimal effect on style, they can substantially affect a kitchen area or bathroom’s total style. Kitchen and bathroom faucets can last 15 to 20 years.

Do you have to replace valve when replacing shower faucet?

Simply replace the visible trim for an brand new appearance Change out tub/shower control handles and spouts to achieve a brand new look, without redoing the valve plumbing.

Are shower valve cartridges universal?

Cartridges aren’t interchangeable among different faucets, so if you decide you need a replacement, you need to know its part number so you can order it from your plumbing supplier or online. That number is usually available on the manufacturer’s website in the online version of the owner’s manual for your faucet.

What is the difference between a shower valve and cartridge?

Conventional shower stem valves consist of a metal body concealed behind the shower stall’s wall. Cartridge shower faucet assemblies might consist of one or two handles. A single-handle cartridge faucet opens and closes water flow with an up and down motion, and regulates temperature with a left or right motion.

Do you need access to shower valve?

Most modern tub and shower valves can fail, but even so, once they are properly soldered to the water pipes, the plumbing code allows you to cover them. If you have such a device that isn’t part of the tub and shower valve proper, then the door must provide access to the device.

How do you replace a tub faucet with no wall access?

How to Replace Tub Faucets With No Wall Access Turn off the water valves at the main incoming water pipe. Remove the cap on the faucet handle and loosen the screw underneath with an Allen wrench. Pry out the clip around the cartridge with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Install a new cartridge inside the faucet head.

How do I know what shower cartridge I have?

Use a caliper or ruler and measure the cartridge. Do this by measuring from the base to the tip (from seat to splines). Pay attention to the length tier of your cartridge (Lengths range from 1–12). Next, identify the broach pattern with the broach chart (see page B-5).

What shower valve is best?

Our Top Picks Best Overall. hansgrohe iBox Universal Leak Preventing Valve. Best Bang For The Buck. GROHE Grohsafe Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve. Upgrade Pick. U by Moen Shower Digital Thermostatic Valve. Best Shower Arm Diverter. MINGOR Brass Shower Arm Diverter Valve. Best For Outdoor Showers. Best Vintage.

How do I choose a shower valve?

How to Choose the Perfect Shower Faucet (5 Expert Tips) Choose the Right Shower Valves. First, you’ll want to consider the shower valves, which is the plumbing part that controls the water flow of the shower tap. Pick the Configuration and Type. Check the Water Pressure. Consider Accessories. Find Something in Your Budget.

How do you replace a single handle shower valve?

How to Replace Single Handle Shower Faucet Turn off the water to the shower. Remove handle and escutcheon plate to expose shower valve. Loosen locking nut with pliers and pull old cartridge from center of valve. Put new rubber seat with spring onto end of pencil and push into the valve.

How do you know if your shower valve is bad?

Signs You Could Have a Faulty Shower Valve Trouble Turning the Handle. Do you have difficulty turning on your shower? Unexpected Temperature Changes. Loss of Water Pressure. Shower Head Leaks.