Skip to main content
Stesso
Project

Disassemble Handle and Faceplate — Remove the Old Shower Handle Screw(s)

Beginner

Part of project

How to Replace a Shower Knob or Handle: A DIY Guide · Step 2 of 5

Helpful?

In this video

First, ensure the main water is off. If there is caulk around the faceplate, carefully score it with a utility knife. Locate the set screw on the underside of the shower handle and use the correct size Allen wrench to loosen it by turning counter-clockwise. Pull the handle straight off. Next, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the decorative faceplate to the wall. Set the handle, faceplate, and screws aside.

Goal: Remove faucet handle and faceplate to access the valve body.

  • Make sure the main water is shut off to the shower.
  • Score any existing caulk around the faceplate before prying it off to avoid damaging the wall or tile.

Used in this video

  • Allen Wrench (Tool Type: Allen Wrench) — To loosen the set screw on the shower handle.
  • Screwdriver (Handle Type: Phillips, Tool Type: Screwdriver) — To remove the two Phillips head screws securing the faceplate.
  • Utility Knife (Tool Type: Utility knife) · optional — To score old caulk around the faceplate for easier removal.
30.3K views3265-10 minutes
This Old House

2.2M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What's the most important safety precaution to take before replacing my shower handle?

Always ensure the water supply to your shower is completely turned off before starting. This prevents accidental flooding and potential water damage. If individual shut-off valves for your shower are unavailable, you must turn off the main water supply to your entire home.

Do I need any special tools beyond basic screwdrivers for this shower handle replacement project?

While a flat-head screwdriver is usually sufficient for removing decorative caps and screws, a handle puller tool can be incredibly useful. If your old handle is stuck due to corrosion or mineral buildup, a puller will help remove it without damaging the valve stem or the handle itself.

How long should this project take for a beginner, and what's the typical cost for a new shower handle?

For a beginner, this project typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, assuming no major issues like heavily corroded parts. The cost for a new shower handle can vary widely, from $20 for basic models to $100+ for higher-end or brand-specific designs, depending on your existing faucet's requirements.

My new shower handle doesn't seem to fit correctly, or it's wobbly after installation. What should I check?

Shower handles are not universal; they often need to be compatible with your existing faucet brand and valve stem type. Double-check your new handle's compatibility with your shower's make and model. Ensure the handle is fully seated onto the valve stem and that the set screw is tightened securely, but avoid over-tightening which can strip threads.

Transcript
Hide

All right. First off, you guys cover plate on there right there. Take a razor blade, score that off. Okay. Once you got that off, make sure you turn off your water also. That's your main. So make sure there's no water coming out of there when this thing is turned on. And then you need an Allen wrench right here inside of this little hole on the handle. There's an Allen wrench that was actually the first thing I had to do counterclockwise. Pop this out. Once you got that out, I was able to unscrew the two screws, which are just a Phillips head right here. They're stainless steel. Remove those. Got the cover plate off.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.