Can you replace just the shower faucet?

Author: Alvena Fay  |  Last update: Friday, July 4, 2025

You can replace the faucet only without changing the plumbing behind the wall, but options may be limited where style is concerned.

Can you replace a shower valve without removing tile in the shower?

The general answer is yes you can; however, I would not recommend doing so, when you are working in the area of the shower valve. You would want to remove the trim(knobs and flanges), in order to tile behind it. When removing these, there is a risk of breaking something.

Are shower faucets interchangeable?

You can identify the manufacturer of the shower valve you have by removing and checking the cartridge for the brand name. Do not try to mix and match with manufacturers when it comes to shower faucet and valve parts. The different brands' faucet and valve types and sizes are not interchangeable.

Can I replace the shower handle without replacing the valve?

As long as there is no damage to the valve stem yes you can install a new handle. If its a moen tap and the valve stem is damaged or not working you can go to any store that sells moen products with the valvestem cartridge and they will replace it free of charge. but you must bring the old one to them.

Can you replace just a bathroom faucet?

It is definitely one of those tasks that are a lot easier than they look! To replace your bathroom sink faucet you just need to disconnect the water lines, remove the old faucet, assemble the new faucet, install the new faucet, and reconnect the water lines! It also requires very few tools and materials.

How I install a Moen Chateau remodel kit

Can I replace my shower faucet myself?

If your new shower faucet is compatible with the existing shower faucet, the process is relatively straightforward. However, if your new shower faucet is not compatible with the existing shower faucet, then you will need to replace the shower valve as well as some of the plumbing parts in the wall.

Can you change a faucet without a plumber?

You can do a faucet replacement if you have the right tools and knowledge of plumbing for your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, tub/shower, hose bib, or utility sink. However, for homeowners without experience, a task that might take a licensed plumber an hour or two to complete can easily balloon into a half day.

Do I need a plumber to replace a shower valve?

If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. Removing your old valve and installing a new one can take time, but with patience, a novice handyman can do it without the help of a plumber.

Is it easy to replace a shower handle?

The amount of time it takes you to replace your shower knob will depend on your skill level and if your existing knob is hard to remove. Generally, it should only take you 30 minutes or so to get the job done, although it may take you a little longer. All in all, it's a quick project that has tons of visual impact.

What are the three 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.

Do you need to turn off water to change shower faucet?

Turn off the water supply.

Are two handle shower faucets illegal?

The Uniform Plumbing Code and International Building Code, in accordance with ASSE 1016, require that all tub/shower faucets now be of the pressure balance or the thermostatic mixing valve type. Two and three valve handles are not. The purpose for this is to prevent serious harm from hot water scalding.

How much is a shower valve?

A basic shower valve kit costs under $30, whereas fancy units cost $100 or more.

How much does a plumber charge to replace a shower valve?

Labor cost for plumber to replace shower valve

Plumbing companies charge $100 to $300 for labor alone to replace a shower valve or $225 to $575 for the valve with installation. Replacing a shower valve takes 1.5 to 3 hours on average, depending on type and accessibility.

How do I know if my shower valve is broken?

Fluctuations In Water Pressure or Temperature

Plumbing repair becomes necessary when homeowners start noticing unexpected cold or hot water blasts or the water pressure goes up and down. In both cases, these symptoms indicate a problem with the valve that requires correcting.

Can I replace a shower cartridge myself?

Use the Puller Tool to Remove the Old Shower Cartridge

Locate your shower cartridge pulling tool. If your model is older, you can simply remove it with pliers. Hook the puller tool onto the edges of the cartridge and slowly turn until it loosens. Note the position of the cartridge before you begin unscrewing it.

Can you replace a shower faucet without replacing the valve?

Yes, you can change your shower faucet without changing out the valve. In fact, you likely don't have to replace the valve unless you're switching to an entirely different style of shower faucet.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a shower valve?

It takes around two hours to install a shower valve, assuming there's already a shower installed.

Do you have to remove tile to replace shower valve?

It may require the plumber to cut through the tile to access the valve. The plumber will take care to only cut what is necessary to get the valve fixed. The size of the repair depends on the size of the hole needed. Depending on how much space the plumber needs to work will dictate how much tile needs to be repaired.

How long do shower faucets last?

You can figure out the lifespan of your faucet by researching the model number through its manufacturer. However, most faucets generally last about 15 years if maintained and cleaned properly. Any old faucet should be replaced. You may also need to check any piping to ensure there aren't any other plumbing problems.

How much will a plumber charge to change a faucet?

For a basic kitchen sink faucet installation by a pro plumber or a qualified handyperson, you can expect the installation cost to be anywhere from $119 for faucet installation through Home Depot, $92 for faucet installation through Lowe's to $400+ on a complex project.

Do you have to shut off water to replace a faucet?

Before you can start work on the faucet, you need to turn off the hot and cold water supply to the sink, which can be done by reaching underneath the sink and turning the valves clockwise. If there are no stop valves, you need to shut off the water to the entire house.

Can a handyman replace a faucet?

A handyman's responsibilities typically include a broad range of repair and maintenance tasks around the home or business premises. These can include fixing leaky faucets, painting, minor electrical repairs, assembling furniture, carpentry, and garden maintenance.

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