How to Secure Loose Pipes

Steps:

1. Remove the shower valve handle.

2. Unscrew the cover plates from the shower valve.

3. While standing in the shower, drill ¼-inch holes through the wall behind the shower valve.

4. Cut open the wall behind the shower valve using a drywall saw.

5. Cut a 1×4 to fit behind the type of water pipes in your shower.

6. Screw the 1×4 to the studs on either side of the shower valve.

7. Secure the water pipes to the 1×4 blocking with copper clips.

8. Cover the hole cut in the back wall with a plastic access panel.

9. Apply silicone caulk to the backside of the wall plate, and screw it in place.

10. Place a bead of plumber’s putty around the valve cover and reattach it.

11. Replace shower valve handle and remove excess putty from around the valve cover.

Fitting the Blocking: If your blocking piece is too long to fit between the studs, cut each of the corners off at an angle. This allows you to maneuver it up inside the wall cavity and then tip it into position. Pre-drill the blocking before toenailing it to the studs so the wood doesn’t split.

Pro Tip: When dealing with copper pipes that expand and create noise, a This Old House plumber explained that mechanical expansion joints—which move back and forth to absorb expansion—are one option, but cautioned: “We don’t use these often anymore because inside here there’s a gasket that can dry up. If it does, it could leak into the floor.” Simpler fixes like pipe straps and cushioned hangers are usually all you need for loose pipes.

Why It Matters: Richard, This Old House’s plumbing expert, explains the urgency of fixing a loose shower valve: “If this valve is moving this much, those pipes are moving and that’s not good.” Loose pipes behind the wall can lead to water getting inside the wall cavity, causing hidden damage over time.

Pro Tip: Richard, This Old House’s master plumber, recommends placing a rag over the drain before removing any hardware: “I like to use a rag to make sure nothing drops down the drain.” A lost screw or index cap down the drain can turn a simple repair into a much bigger job.