In this video, This Old House plumbing and heating contractor Richard Trethewey explains how to troubleshoot a leaky shower.
Repair a Leaky Shower Head in 12 Steps
- Cover shower drain with rag to prevent dropped screws from falling down the drain.
- Remove handle from shower valve.
- Unscrew escutcheon plate from the shower valve.
- Inspect rear of escutcheon for water stains; check condition of gasket.
- Remove old gasket and apply plumber’s putty around back of escutcheon.
- Screw the escutcheon plate back onto the shower valve, then remove excess putty.
- Check all horizontal surfaces in shower stall, such as soap dishes and shelves, for cracks.
- Inspect seams between shower stall and walls; seal all cracks and holes with silicone caulk.
- Use a strap wrench to unscrew shower arm from wall.
- Clean threads on shower arm, then wrap the threads with Teflon tape.
- Thread shower arm back into wall.
- Turn on shower and test for leaks.
Tools
Tools & Materials
Screwdriver
Strap wrench