Skip to main content
Stesso
Project

Seal the Shower Arm Threads — Clean the Shower Arm Threads

Beginner

Part of project

Rain Shower Head Installation: Low Water Pressure Solution · Step 3 of 5

Helpful?

In this video

With the shower arm removed, the technician prepares it for a proper, leak-free installation. First, he wraps the threads of the shower arm clockwise with several layers of Teflon tape. After the tape is applied, he liberally coats the taped threads with a pipe thread sealant, in this case, 'Big Blue' pipe dope. This dual-sealant method ensures a robust, watertight connection.

Goal: Apply sealant to the shower arm threads to prevent future leaks

  • Wrap Teflon tape in the same direction you will be tightening the pipe (clockwise). This prevents the tape from unraveling during installation.
  • Using both Teflon tape and pipe dope is an excellent practice for connections behind a wall, as it provides extra insurance against leaks and makes future disassembly easier.
21.5K views3783 minutes
Lowe's Home Improvement

1.3M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

How does installing a new rain shower head specifically address low water pressure?

While a new rain shower head itself doesn't increase your home's overall water pressure, many modern rain heads are designed with wider spray patterns that can make low pressure feel more substantial. Additionally, some rain shower heads have removable flow restrictors that, when carefully removed (and if permitted by local codes), can significantly improve water flow for a better shower experience.

Besides an adjustable wrench, are there other essential tools or materials I'll need for a leak-free installation?

Yes, Teflon tape (also known as plumber's tape) is crucial for creating a watertight seal. You'll wrap it clockwise around the shower arm threads 3-5 times before installing the new shower head. A soft cloth or old towel is also helpful for cleaning threads and protecting your new fixture.

Why is it so important to turn off the main water supply before starting, and how do I do it safely?

Turning off the main water supply is vital to prevent flooding and ensure you can work safely without water spraying during the installation. Locate your home's main water shut-off valve, typically in the basement, utility closet, or near your water meter, and turn it clockwise until the water flow stops completely.

What happens if I overtighten the new rain shower head, and how can I avoid it?

Overtightening can strip the threads on your existing shower arm or the new shower head, leading to persistent leaks or costly damage requiring professional repair. To avoid this, hand-tighten the shower head until it's snug, then use an adjustable wrench for just an additional quarter to half turn, stopping as soon as it feels secure.

Transcript
Hide

She's butt naked. I've never screwed this shower head on. I had to put it between my legs and then give it the old man handle. I had to blow up on it. So this is the part that went into the wall. There's nothing on it. Got to have Teflon on my guys. Plummers who installed it. So we'll just give it a few wraps. Big blue. Oh my gosh, she's doing both. Oh my gosh, she's doing both. I got to leave a nasty comment. That's going to seal it up. It's going to lock it up. It's going to glue. You're never going to be able to get that out. Even though it says for sealing and lubricating threaded connections on plastic and metal pipe. It's okay, super text.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.