Water droplets in the shower can irritate anyone, especially during a hot shower. These drops also create rust and unpleasant stains in the shower. Fortunately, we’ve found tips for stopping a leaky shower faucet.

It’d be advisable first to understand the possible cause of leaky shower faucets so that you can act towards prevention rather than stopping. You’ll require replacing your valve’s cartridge for those with a single-handle shower faucet. For a two-handle shower faucet, replace the washer from the leaking side. Although, you may need to consult a plumber if your DIY tricks fail.

Here are some ways on how to stop a leaky shower faucet:

Plant a New Cartridge in a Single-Handed Faucet

Not all leaking shower faucets require a replacement. Some may be repairable depending on the rate of leakages and damage. After identifying the type of shower valve you own and the extent of damage, it’ll be much easier to replace it since various shower valves require extra attention. Sometimes it may be challenging to determine the shower valve until you extract the cartridge or stem from the valve.

Most importantly, ensure to have the necessary tools and replacements at hand to fasten the process. We advocate for quality shower faucet parts if you want your system to last longer with fewer defects.

Turn off the Water Supply

This trick begins with turning off the water after starting the installation. It may be positioned in your basement or bathroom. After locating the valve, turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water.

Sometimes, you may find that panels for your water are in the next room or your closet. Always look further before commencing. Once you’re sure there’s no water escaping through the valve, you can now extract the stem or cartridge.

Remove the Shower Handle

Unscrewing the locking screw under the cap is relatively easy. You will need a solid screwdriver to bring the screw off safely. Remove the handle using pulling and wriggling movements. You can use a faucet puller or screwdriver to remove complex handles.

Bring Out the Trim and Sleeve

Shift the sleeve and trim on the faucet stem, then thread out the faucet stem from the valve body using a plumber’s deep socket. Arrange the tools on the faucet stem’s nut, then rotate it anticlockwise. Be sure to apply enough grease for more effortless movement of the nuts. Once that’s done, loosen the stem and remove it from the valve body.

For Single-Handle Showers

When it comes to single-handed showers, you will most likely require to change the washers and springs. You can insert a small screwdriver through the center hole to remove the washer and spring and replace them with new ones.

For Double or Triple Handle Shower Faucets

This involves re-assembling the unit and replacing the defective seals and washers. Remember to turn off the water supply first before starting the operation. Here, a faucet washer kit comes to the rescue as it has new washers and O-rings at hand.

Replace the Damaged Parts

Replace all the seals, O-rings, the flat washer, and the faucet washer at the end of the stem. Worn-out or rusty shower handles should also be replaced to avoid future leaks.

It’d be advisable to ensure the parts you want to replace perfectly align with the current ones in size and sometimes type. A small O-ring will not fit in place of a large O-ring and vice versa.

After that, reverse the process to replace the faucet stem in the valve body. Lubricating is usually crucial to allow more effortless movement of the parts.

Tighten the faucet stem temporarily, re-install the handle, and then slowly turn on the water supply to test the valve. If there are no more drips, finalize the re-assembling process and seal the trim to the wall.
However, not all leaky shower faucets require to be replaced. Replacement is advisable when water and rust corrode the spout and valve to no repair.

A tip: Buy an all-in-one shower faucet kit with several accessories at a lower price than getting each item on its own. These kits are available in several hardware, malls, plumbing shops, and other stores.

Fix Your Leaky Shower Faucet Today

Leaking shower faucets are a real nuisance and even worse in escalating water bills. With the above DIY procedures, you’re ready to stop that leakage from your shower faucet.

However, if the leakage persists, even after trying to stop it severally, it’d be advisable to consult an expert in that field. This will save you both time and money. It will also save you the hassle of buying repair accessories regularly.

Unlike the inferior shower accessories, purchasing quality ones will also go a long way in preventing possible leaks. After going through this blog, you can now fix your leaking shower faucets.