How to Replace a Two-Handle Shower Faucet

How to Replace a Two-Handle Shower Faucet

Advanced
30 min
8 Steps
53 items

This guide provides comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for removing an old two-handle shower faucet and installing a new one. The process covers shutting off the water, accessing the valve within the wall, disconnecting the old valve, soldering the new valve into place, testing for leaks, and installing the new trim.

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Best for advanced DIYers and professionals with basic plumbing knowledge and familiarity with power tools. Requires First Alert General Purpose Fire Extinguisher 1-A:10-B:C - in Red FE1A10GOA and HDX Clear Indoor Safety Glasses (1-Pack) VS-9300, clear and 3M 8210 N95 Drywall Sanding Performance Disposable Respirator (2-Pack) 8210DA1-A.

Tools & Materials

Drop Cloth

Drop Cloth

Protects surfaces from unwanted spills.

BWE Double Handle 2-Spray Shower Faucet Round Wall Bar Shower Kit 2.5 GPM with High Pressure 2 Cross Handles in Brushed Gold B-98022-BG

BWE Double Handle 2-Spray Shower Faucet Round Wall Bar Shower Kit 2.5 GPM with High Pressure 2 Cross Handles in Brushed Gold B-98022-BG

Wall Mounted Classic Brushed Gold Exposed Shower Brass Pipe Shower Faucet Bathroom Combo Set with Vintage Double Cross Knobs Remodel your bathroom with this shower system. Featuring a refined style with

Klein Tools 1/4 in. Cabinet-Tip Flat Head Screwdriver with 10 in. Heavy-Duty Round Shank 605-10

Klein Tools 1/4 in. Cabinet-Tip Flat Head Screwdriver with 10 in. Heavy-Duty Round Shank 605-10

The Klein Tools 1/4-Inch (6 mm) Cabinet Tip Screwdriver 10-Inch (254 mm) with heavy-duty round-shank has a narrow cabinet tip that permits blade access where space is limited. It meets or exceeds applicable

Common Problems

Lost screws during faucet repair can halt your project and require replacement parts.

Solution: Keep all screws and small parts in a container so they don't get lost.

Small parts and screws can fall down the drain, causing them to be lost.

Solution: Place a towel or cloth over the drain to prevent screws or small parts from falling in.

Losing small screws and parts during faucet replacement can halt the project.

Solution: Keep all screws and small parts in a container to avoid losing them.

Use caution with the utility knife to avoid scratching the finish of the plate or the shower surround.

Solution: To avoid this issue: Be mindful of this warning and take appropriate precautions.

Lost screws down the drain during faucet repair.

Solution: Place a rag over the drain to catch any dropped screws.

Incorrectly connecting hot and cold water lines results in scalding or freezing water.

Solution: Ensure the hot inlet is connected to the hot supply line and the cold inlet to the cold supply. Most valves are marked 'H' and 'C'.

Do not overtighten threaded connections, as this can crack the valve body.

Solution: To avoid this issue: Be mindful of this warning and take appropriate precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this project truly 'intermediate,' and what specific skills do I need to successfully replace my two-handle shower faucet?

Yes, this project is rated intermediate primarily because it involves soldering copper pipes, which requires practice and a steady hand. You'll also need basic carpentry skills for opening and repairing the access hole, and a good understanding of how to properly shut off and drain your home's water supply. If you're new to soldering, practice on scrap copper pipe first to gain confidence before working on the live plumbing.

Always ensure proper ventilation to dissipate fumes, and keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby in case of accidental ignition. Clear the work area of all flammable materials like insulation, wood studs, and plastics before beginning to solder. Wear appropriate safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves, and never point the torch flame at anything other than the pipe connection you are working on.

To prevent leaks, ensure all pipe ends and fittings are clean, properly fluxed, and heated evenly for the solder to flow completely around each joint. After soldering, perform a thorough leak test by slowly turning the water back on and checking every new connection with a dry paper towel for at least 15-30 minutes. If you find a leak, turn off the water immediately, drain the line, and re-solder the faulty joint after inspecting it for imperfections.

This project, as detailed, requires soldering for a professional and durable connection, which necessitates a propane torch, lead-free solder wire, and flux paste. While alternatives like push-to-connect (e.g., SharkBite) or press-fit fittings exist and don't require a torch, they often cost more per fitting and require different specialized tools. Soldering is a reliable and common method for copper plumbing, offering a secure, long-lasting seal.

For someone new to plumbing and soldering, you should allocate a full day (6-8 hours) for the entire process, including preparing the access hole, removing the old valve, installing and soldering the new one, and thorough leak testing. Rushing the soldering or leak testing phases can lead to costly mistakes. Experienced DIYers might complete it in 4-6 hours, but always factor in extra time for unexpected issues.

The best approach is to cut an access hole in the drywall on the opposite side of the shower wall, if accessible and practical, to avoid damaging shower tiles. Use a utility knife to make precise, rectangular cuts slightly larger than needed for working space. For patching, cut a new piece of drywall to fit, secure it with wood blocking (like the included 2x4 stud) screwed to the existing studs, then apply joint compound, tape, sand, and paint for a seamless finish.

In addition to the new shower valve body and trim kit, you'll need to budget for essential plumbing materials like copper pipe (e.g., Type L), copper pressure slip couplings, lead-free solder wire, and lead-free solder flux paste. You should also account for inexpensive supplies for the wall repair, such as drywall, joint compound, tape, and paint. Expect material costs, excluding the faucet itself, to range from $50-$150 depending on your specific needs and what you already own.

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30 min | 8 Steps