Take the time to explore the many options available, whether you are remodeling your bathroom, building a new one, or simply replacing shower fixtures.There is a wide variety of shower faucets.With the exception of a few incredibly complicated set-ups, even a relative novice can replace shower faucets.
Step 1: You can pick out a new faucet at the bathroom showroom.
If you are replacing an existing faucet, choose the style already in place to make installation easier.You can purchase replacement parts if you know what you need.If you don't, you should take the old parts with you to the hardware store so you can match the new components.Many shower components are pre-packaged so you can have everything you need.Single-handled shower faucets have a tee connection to both hot and cold water supplies and control water temperature and water flow with just 1 handle.There are two control for hot and cold water in a double-handled shower faucet.There is an additional handle for the bathtub in 3-handled shower faucets.The strength of the water flow is determined by the third handle and whether it goes to the tub or shower.
Step 2: The other tools and equipment need to be assembled.
There are a number of tools and materials that are needed to complete this project.
Step 3: The main water supply needs to be turned off.
Turn the water off when you locate the shut-off valve.You don't need to shut off the water for the whole house if you have individual bathroom shut-offs in place.The shut-off valve should be at the water meter.You will need to find your pressure tank if your home is on a private well.Older tanks may be any color, while newer tanks are usually blue.The shut-off valve is located on the main outlet pipe.Turn this valve clockwise until it closes.This will stop the water from flowing into the house.Once you have shut off the water supply, you can open the shower faucet valves to let some water out of the pipes.
Step 4: A canvas drop cloth can be used to cover the tub and shower floor.
It's important to drop some cloth to protect the bathtub if you're going to be cutting through it.Make sure the shower area is clean and dry, then use a painter's drop cloth or other protective covering to protect it from scratches and chips.
Step 5: The handles need to be removed.
The small caps on the handles can be pried up with a flat-headed screwdriver.The caps are usually marked with a C or H.The handles will be released with a screw under the cap.Pull the handles off of the valve stems by removing the retaining screws.It may take a little more effort to loosen the screws if they are rusted.To break through the rust, use penetrating oil.
Step 6: The spout needs to be removed.
Pull towards you at the same time as you twist counterclockwise to remove the old spout.There is a screw that needs to be removed before you can take it off.When removing old fixture, pliers or a pipe wrench may be helpful.You should use what works best for you.The diverter handle on some faucets has an arrow on it.Use a flat head screwdriver or a butter knife to pry the cap from the handle to reveal the retaining screw.To open the valve completely, you'll need to turn the handle clockwise.While removing the screw, this keeps the valve from turning.
Step 7: The flange needs to be removed.
The chrome flanges are about three inches long on most two-handle and three- handle faucets.To remove it, grasp it and turn it counterclockwise.The white nylon threaded sleeve may not come off as you remove it.Simply grasp the sleeve with your hand or a pair of pliers and turn it clockwise to remove it.A large round plate is attached to a single-handled faucet with caulking or screws.The plate can be removed by cutting the caulking with a utility knife after removing the handle.Pull the plate from the wall.
Step 8: The valve assembly needs to be removed.
You can use a wrench or pliers to remove them if they are near the wall.Until they come loose, turn themcounterclockwise.If you want to remove debris from the water inlet pipes, use a damp cloth or toothbrush.
Step 9: If necessary, make cuts where the new heads go.
Measure and mark the spots where you will be installing a shower head and a brand new faucet.The shower head height is 72 to 78 inches and the shower faucets are usually installed at a height of 45 to 48 inches.After making your measurements, drill holes using tile drill-bits of the appropriate size, depending on the size of your shower components, and remove the wall to access the pipe for proper installation.After cutting the shower walls, use bleach or white vinegar water to clean them.If you mix bleach and vinegar, it will release a noxious gas.Water should not be allowed behind the wall.Before installing the new fixtures, dry it thoroughly.
Step 10: Before installation, open and check the valve assembly.
Before installing the new valve assembly, take all of them and open them.Turn the stems clockwise.When the valve is installed, it needs to be opened to seat the pipe components.Set the diverter valve aside so that it can be installed last.The process of installing a new faucet will need to be done in reverse.It shouldn't be difficult if you bought the same kit as the one you removed.
Step 11: The valves should be taped.
Remove the end of the tape from the roll.Hold the threaded base in one hand and point at the other.Place the end of the tape over the threads and wrap it around them with your thumb.Pull against the threads.Place the loose end over the taped threads.The tape will fit to the threads.For the new valve components, repeat this process.The tighter a seal is created, the more water won't leak.
Step 12: The valve needs to be installed.
Put the new valve in the pipe and turn it clockwise with your fingers.There should be some resistance after that.Start again if the valve does not seat in the threaded pipe.Don't force a seated valve.It will cause a serious leak.This step should be repeated for all valves.The valves should be tightened with a wrench or pliers.If you over-tighten, you risk damaging the valve or the water pipes.
Step 13: The sleeve needs to be installed.
Take the threaded white nylon sleeve, slip it over each valve stem, and twist it into a threaded interior of the valve base.If you use pliers or a pipe wrench, it will damage the threads.Wrap a cloth rag around the sleeve with your hand and twist it into place.
Step 14: The flange needs to be installed.
The nylon sleeve should be snug against the shower wall when the chrome flange is twisted onto it.The valve stem should be placed over the faucet handle.To tighten the retaining screw, hold the handle firmly.Don't tighten to avoid stripping the threads.Place the handle in the shut-off position when you turn it clockwise.These steps should be repeated for each of the valves.
Step 15: The retaining screw cover needs to be installed on each handle.
The diverter cap is pointing down if the covers are put on the left side.
Step 16: There are gaps in the shower wall where hardware meets the wall.
Allow to dry and caulk the fixture where they touch the walls.You shouldn't use a freshly caulked shower for more than 24 hours.
Step 17: Check the water supply for leaks.
Take your water supply and turn it on.When you test your shower faucets, don't be surprised by the initial sputtering of the water.The air is leaving the line because of the water pressure.The sputtering should stop in a few seconds.