how to repair a tub spout

How to fix a dripping tub spout?

1. Turn off the water. Find the primary water valve in your home and turn it off. ...
2. Remove the faucet handle. Grab your screwdriver and loosen the screws in the central handle. ...
3. Assess the damage. ...
4. Replace the handle. ...
5. Replace the washer. ...
6. Replace the spout seat. ...
7. Replace the spout stem. ...
8. Replace the spout. ...
9. Put it all back together. ...
10. Turn on the water supply and test. ...

Full Answer

How to remove and replace a bathtub spout?

Remove the Old Spout

• The spout is attached to a pipe via friction and a set screw, or by threads.
• Check under the spout where it meets the shower wall to see if there’s a set screw. The set screw will require either a hex key or screwdriver.
• If a screw exists, loosen it and slide the spout off the pipe. ...

How do I remove my bathtub spout?

• When removing a slip-on spout, remove the set-screw at the bottom of the spout. Use an Allen wrench or appropriate screwdriver based on the type of screw.
• Pull the spout from the wall with both hands.
• When removing a threaded spout, place the jaws of locking pliers or a pipe wrench around the spout and tighten until secure. ...

How do you stop your tub faucet from dripping?

• Clear any rust, wax or caulk from around the base.
• Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the bolts that hold it together. ...
• Remove the stem and install a new one in the fitting using new bolts. ...
• If the bathtub faucet is still dripping after replacing the handle, washer and stem, you may need to replace the entire bathtub spout.

How to remove a rusted tub spout?

• You can use sea salt or iodized table salt, but it needs to be fine in order to effectively soak up the lemon juice and form a paste.
• If your bathtub has a shelf with rust on it, you can use lemon juice and salt to remove it from there.
• If you don’t have lemons or lemon juice, you can use lime or lime juice!

How do you fix a tub spout?

0:248:47Replacing a Tub Faucet: Bathtub Spout Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf there's no set screw it is a threaded model. And if there is a set screw it's a slip-on. ThisMoreIf there's no set screw it is a threaded model. And if there is a set screw it's a slip-on. This will let you know which model you'll need to purchase for your replacement.

How do you fix a tub diverter spout?

1:077:29Tub Spout Diverter Repair or Replace? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut you might be able to just take a pair of pliers. And another pair of pliers. And hold the postMoreBut you might be able to just take a pair of pliers. And another pair of pliers. And hold the post while you unscrew. This probably the second easiest way is just to take a hacksaw blade.

Why does bathtub spout leak?

A cracked or worn washer in the stem is a common source of a dripping bathtub faucet. Each time the water is turned on the washer is pushed against the valve. This repeated friction over time causes the washer to wear out. The tub faucet stem or cartridge itself may be the cause of the leak.

Can a shower diverter be fixed?

Once you've determined that your shower diverter is broken, don't delay in repairing it. Though it might be an easy task to put off, a broken shower diverter wastes water and creates a poor shower experience. Repairing a shower diverter is a home improvement project that you can complete in just one day.

Are bathtub spouts universal?

There is no specific reason bathtub faucets are not universal besides the fact that different contractors install different types of bathtub spouts when building the bathroom. So, ultimately, it all depends on how your bathtub is built.

How do you replace a diverter valve?

First, find the correct spigot to replace your old version.Unscrew the set screw. See how the spigot is attached to the wall. ... Unscrew spigot from the wall. Be careful! ... Wash Supply Pipe. Make sure that you clean off any bits of gunk from the supply pipe. ... Replace new spout on the copper pipe. ... Test it and make sure it works!

Should I caulk around tub spout?

Bathtub faucets should always be caulked to avoid potential water damage. It can be a quick, easy, and inexpensive task.

How much does it cost to fix a leaky bathtub faucet?

It costs an average of $350 to replace or repair a bathtub faucet, with a typical range of $300 to $400. However, it may cost you as much as $1,000 to replace a faucet entirely or as little as $25 to do a simple repair.

How do I stop my shower diverter from leaking?

Shower Diverter Valve Leaking: How to Fix ItTurn the Water Supply Line Off. Always begin the job involving toilets, showers, and kitchens by turning off the water supply first. ... Seal the Drain Properly. ... Remove the Spout Correctly. ... Find a Replacement Using the Right Model.

How do you fix a shower diverter pull up?

0:143:21Repair Leaking Tub Spout Diverter Pull in Shower Mode - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'llMoreAnd pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'll take a look inside the tub spout in a little bit but first let's check out the washer.

How much does it cost to replace a shower diverter?

Replacing a shower diverter valve costs $225 to $575, including materials and labor. A shower diverter valve switches the flow of water between the bathtub spout or shower head and is typically controlled by a small handle located on the center trim plate or near the tub spout.

What is a universal tub spout?

Universal tub spout with diverter kit (if needed) The diverter tub spout in your bath/shower assembly makes bathing or showering very convenient. If for some unforseen reason you find that your diverter tub spout stops working properly, you should consider repairing it yourself before calling in a plumber. Following these directions will help you ...

Do you turn off the water when repairing a tub diverter?

Things to Consider. When repairing the diverter assembly in a tub it is not necessary to turn off the water to the home because the diverter is located on the dry side of the plumbing fixtures in the tub. Do not turn on the water faucets in the tub while you have the faucet removed and the diverter exposed.

Can you turn on the water faucet in a tub?

Do not turn on the water faucets in the tub while you have the faucet removed and the diverter exposed. If you do you will cause water to spout from the pipe into your home instead of through the intended water path.