Shower Valve Replacement

We got a call from one of our customers in Plainsboro NJ about a plumbing issue in their shower. Their problem was that their diverter cartridge in the shower became so seized up that the handle wouldn't turn at all anymore. A diverter valve is something that can unfortunately go bad over time, generally due to a high volume of usage. Having hard water is also something that can be a contributing factor in a diverter cartridge going bad more quickly.

This particular diverter wouldn’t even turn on anymore. Calcium in the water gets left behind and builds up over time, eventually causing the valve to seize and no longer be operational. As a result, this Plainsboro homeowner decided he wanted it replaced.

The reason we had to go with a reapairtrim is because there is another shower directly on the opposite side of this wall, which meant the only way for us to gain access to the old valve and install the new one was to carefully grind out the tile. Before doing any grinding we first had to use the template included with the Moen diverter repair plate that we provided and use it to make an outline on the tile. This helps ensure we don’t end up with an opening too big to cover. Once the hole was made, we were then able to cut out and remove the old diverter.

Our next step was then to install the new Moen diverter. The piping was tight and the pipes had no play, but we were able to get the propress fitting in and make the repair. Once the water was turned back on and we were positive there were no leaks it was time to install the repair trim kit.

Lastly we created a water-tight seal by applying silicone around the new diverter trim and tub spout where they meet the tile. Once the homeowner allowed the silicone to dry over night his shower valve replacement was completed and ready for use!