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Remove Old Faucet Trim — Remove the Old Shower Knob

Beginner

Part of project

Shower Knob Repair & Replacement: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 2 of 4

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In this video

Begin by prying off the decorative cap from the center of the old clear acrylic knob using a flathead screwdriver. With the cap removed, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen and remove the screw holding the knob in place. Pull the knob off. Next, pull the chrome sleeve straight off the valve. Finally, unscrew the two long mounting screws holding the chrome faceplate (escutcheon) to the wall. If the plate is stuck, you may need to carefully cut the old caulk around it. Remove the faceplate.

Goal: Disassemble and remove all old trim components

  • The chrome sleeve and faceplate may be held on by old caulk. A utility knife or putty knife can be used to carefully break the seal if they are stuck.

Used in this video

  • Flathead Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver) — Prying off the decorative cap on the old knob.
  • Phillips Head Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver) — Removing the screw that holds the knob and the two long screws that hold the faceplate.
  • Putty Knife (Tool Type: Putty Knife) · optional — Cutting old caulk to help remove the faceplate.
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FAQs

Why is it so important to turn off the water supply before starting, and what if I can't find the shut-off valve?

Turning off the water supply is crucial to prevent flooding and serious water damage during the repair. If you can't find local shut-off valves near your shower, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire home, usually found near your water meter or hot water heater.

What should I do if the screws on my old shower knob are stripped or stuck, making them difficult to remove?

If screws are stripped, try placing a wide rubber band flat over the screw head to provide extra grip for your screwdriver. For stuck screws, a little penetrating oil applied and left to sit for a few minutes can help loosen them. In more stubborn cases, a screw extractor kit may be necessary.

How long does this shower knob repair project typically take for a beginner, and what's the average cost?

For a beginner, this project usually takes about 30-60 minutes, assuming you have all the necessary tools and the new knob on hand. The cost largely depends on the new shower knob, which can range from $15 for a basic model to $50+ for more decorative or brand-specific replacements.

Do I need the exact 'Milwaukee 8 in. x 3/8 in. Slotted Flat Head Screwdriver' mentioned, or will any flathead work?

You do not need that exact brand or model of screwdriver. Any standard flathead screwdriver with a tip width of approximately 3/8 inch and a Phillips head screwdriver of appropriate size for your knob's screws will work. The Milwaukee tool is simply an example of a suitable option.

Transcript
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Okay, so if you got the old Delta knob here like this is chrome and everything this is how you switch over to a Non-chrome one maybe like a nice brush nickel such stainless one. So you pop this off of the flathead screwdriver This on the screws with the Phillips And then this knob will pop off I already unscrewed everything for video and And Then this should just this park will just pull off it should it might be caulked, but that's it just pull it should come off And you unscrew these two very long screws here I'm screw those and then you'll have to get the cock off around this is not too hard and this should just pop off You can see kind of the insulation on the back saw war and everything Then you have this do not remove this brass bonnet unless you have the water turned off

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