Step 2 · Gain Access to the Valve
To access the valve, you must create an opening in the wall. First, remove the old handles and trim plate (escutcheon). Use a stud finder to locate the studs on either side of the valve. Mark a rectangular cutting area around the valve that is large enough to work in, typically about 12x12 inches. If working with tile, use an angle grinder with a diamond blade to carefully cut along your marked lines. Go slow to avoid cracking adjacent tiles. Once the tile and underlying backer board are cut, use a pry bar to gently remove the section and expose the old valve and surrounding pipes.