How To Replace Shower Valve From The Front? (Explained) -

Access to the plumbing is not always straightforward in a shower.

You might have a situation where the back wall is inaccessible. When this happens, it’s time to find a way to replace the shower valve from the front.

To replace a shower valve from the front, turn off the water supply, assemble the shower valve, check its size, and use a remodel plate. This plate helps fit the valve into the existing setup without removing anything.

It’s a simple fix and one that will work for any shower. Just make sure to buy a shower remodel plate that’s durable and aesthetically pleasing.

The market is flooded with different options that are worthwhile.

This article will take a look at the main steps on how to replace a shower valve from the front.

Table of Contents

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Steps To Replace Shower Valve From The Front

1. Turn Off The Water Supply

The first step will be to turn off the water supply.

Your goal has to be to make sure water is not pouring through the faucet or valve when you begin removing it.

This becomes a serious concern as water will floor the tub and bathroom if you are not careful.

Look to turn off the main water supply to avoid damage.

2. Assemble Valve & Check Its Size

Your next step is to assemble the shower valve before installation.

The reason for doing this is due to how you’re installing the new valve. It is not going to be installed from the back, which means it has to be the right size.

If it is not, you are going to deal with leaking and/or the valve not working at all.

Assemble the shower valve and then see if it attaches to the front. If it will fit with a remodel plate, you can move to the next step.

If not, you will have to find a way to determine what the right size is for your specific shower.

3. Use a Remodel Plate

The best and easiest solution to replace a shower valve from the front is to use a remodel plate.

This plate is specifically made for shower valve replacements.

Since each shower valve is unique, the sizing can be off. This also becomes difficult when you are installing the shower valve after everything is completed.

Even professionals struggle with this, which is why a remodel plate becomes useful.

The remodel plate goes on the front and allows you to hook the new shower valve into place without taking anything out.

This is good when you want to replace a shower valve on a wall with no access to the pipes.

4. Test The Water Flow

Once everything is secure, you will now want to check the water flow.

Use the shower valve after the water has been turned back on. Is it coming through nicely? Is the temperature fine?

These are the most important details to look for.

You should also pay attention to the temperature controls associated with the valve. It has to be perfect and fine-tuned to match your needs.

5. Consider Safety Concerns Beforehand

The last detail to think about is the safety concern associated with changing a shower valve with no access.

There is an increased likelihood of a fire breaking out.

This is especially risky when the water valve is turned off. This means you won’t have quick access to water when the fire breaks out.

In most cases, it is highly recommended to consult with a plumber. They will have the right tools to manage such a job.

If you are going to do it, the best course of action is to use a remodel plate.

Can You Replace Shower Valve Without Removing Tile?

To replace a shower valve without removing the tile, it’s best to use a remodel plate. This goes on the front of the tile and helps connect the new shower valve into place. To do this, turn off the water supply, measure the valve, and then install the remodel plate.

This will ensure the shower valve sticks in place and functions as required.

Can I Replace A Shower Valve Myself?

You can replace a shower valve by yourself. To do this, use a remodel plate. The remodel plate will go on the wall and hold the new valve in place. This saves you a lot of trouble but it’s important to find an aesthetically pleasing plate.

Final Thoughts

These are the best steps to replace a shower valve from the front.

To replace a shower valve from the front, turn off the water supply, assemble the new shower valve, check the sizing, and then install a robust remodel plate. This will hold the shower valve once it’s set up.

After you are done, turn on the water valve and see if the new addition works.

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