Skip to main content

Reinstall Valve Faceplate — Install the New Faucet Valve

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 4 of 5

Helpful?

In this video

Place the faceplate back onto the valve body, aligning the screw holes. Insert the screws and use the screwdriver to tighten them until they are snug. This ensures a watertight seal between the faceplate and the valve body.

Goal: Secure Valve Assembly

  • The video only shows two screws being used for testing. For a permanent installation, use all four screws to prevent leaks.

Used in this video

  • Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Phillips Head)Tightening the screws to secure the faceplate
4.6K views103 minutes
This Old House

2.2M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What specific type of replacement valve should I buy for my bathtub faucet, and are the listed tools all I'll need?

You must purchase a replacement valve that is compatible with your specific bathtub faucet brand and model. Take a photo of your existing valve or faucet to a plumbing supply store for an exact match. The listed tools (adjustable wrenches, screwdriver) are essential, but also have penetrating oil and a utility knife on hand for stubborn parts.

What's the most critical safety step, and how can I avoid common beginner mistakes like leaks after installation?

The most critical safety step is ensuring both hot and cold water supplies are completely shut off before starting, then double-checking by trying to turn the faucet on. To avoid leaks, ensure the new valve is properly seated and the retaining nut is snug, but do not overtighten. Test for leaks slowly as you turn the water back on, inspecting carefully.

The project is rated 'beginner' but estimated at 3 hours. What makes it take that long, and what if screws or nuts are corroded?

While the steps are straightforward for a beginner, unexpected issues like corroded screws or a seized retaining nut can significantly extend the time. Using penetrating oil and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes can help loosen stubborn parts. Patience and having the right-sized adjustable wrench are key to success.

I'm struggling to remove the old valve even with a wrench and penetrating oil. Are there any alternative methods or tools I should try?

If the retaining nut or valve is extremely stubborn, you might need a specialized valve puller tool, which can often be rented or purchased at a hardware store. Ensure you're turning the nut counter-clockwise. If the new valve doesn't fit, double-check its compatibility with your faucet model, as slight variations can prevent proper seating.

Transcript
Hide

Looks perfectly fine. Put the face back on. From this purpose we only use two screws because just these are on us when we're testing things, but in your installation you should have four screws. Make sure these are nice and snug so there's a seal there.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.