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when replacing the fixtiures in a shower/tub do you have to do any actual plumbing?

or does a new universal replacement type just mount in the same plumbing left when you remove the old parts.does the stem length on the new have to match the old length so the handles are not recessed too much (or stick out to far).the house was built in the late 60s and when i tried to replace some parts, the stem(speakman brand)was the longest one in the cataloge and wasnt stocked at home depot .now i bought a new set (5 pcs) and dont want to tear out ,or cut up the tub surround or try to get at the plumbing from the back. HELP

Public Comments

  1. You can just by replacement shower heads and faucets at Lowe's or Home Depot. Just turn off the water, follow the instructions on the package and install. Then turn the water back on.
  2. Now you know why good builders build an access panel on the wall that's on the other side of the tub/shower controls. If you're going from separate hot and cold taps to a single-handle water control, you will have to open the wall because you'll be cutting out the old plumbing and soldering in new mixing valves, nipples, etc., specific to your new set. If you're not good at "sweating copper," get a LICENSED plumber to do the job; the last thing you want is a leak inside the wall that you just sealed back up (now's the time to make an access panel!). We've had more than one call from people who did their own plumbing and then discovered puddles in a downstairs room. Be sure that he/she does a thorough pressure-test before they leave.
  3. most diverters are soldier joints. even the ones w/ you can screw a female adaptor over, you still have to soldier the adaptor. sorry, chances are slim.