Leaky tub and shower faucets are not on our list of favorite things to do. The good news is they’re a relatively quick fix that you can do yourself! With the right tools and Danco replacement parts, you can fix a leaky faucet yourself without hiring a plumber.

This DIY project calls for the following tools:

  • Wrench
  • Pliers & needle nose pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Danco Replacement part
  • Cleaner (remove mineral build-up)

Materials Needed

  • Danco Trim Kit
  • Shower cartridge or stem
  • Faucet Silicone Grease
  • Towel or rag for cleanup

Here are easy steps to repair a leaky tub/shower:

Turn off Water Supply

Before starting the project, turn off the main water supply and cover the drain to ensure no tools fall down.

Remove Handle Cap, Handle, and Faceplate

Once sealed off, remove the faceplate behind the handle. Use a screwdriver to remove the faceplate if it has threads. Once threads are removed, pry off the faceplate. Pull off or unscrew the metal sleeve which is found behind the faceplate.

Remove Locking Clip

If your shower has a locking clip, it will also need to be removed. The locking clip is located at the top of the shower valve. Pull it off with needle-nose pliers or pry off with a screwdriver.

Remove and Replace Cartridge

Place a wrench over the metal stem of the faucet and grip the bolt nut at the stem base. The nut will need to be unscrewed and set aside for later use. Next, loosen the cartridge, and remove and replace it with a new cartridge.

Replace and update your tub/shower faucet trim

Now, it is time to install the Trim Kit to give your tub/shower a new fresh look.

Danco has Tub/shower Trim Kits available for Moen in a variety of finishes such as Oil Rubbed Bronze, Chrome, Brushed Nickel (#10002), and Matte Black (#11083). Matte Black finishes are Coming soon in April 2022. Identical Trim kits for Delta-style faucets are also available in Oil Rubbed Bronze, Brushed Nickel, Chrome,  Matte Black, also coming soon in April. You can choose between a clear acrylic handle and finished metal trim providing rust resistance, durability, and high-performance reliability.

Each kit includes (1) clear acrylic handle and (1) metal handle, faceplate trim, screws, adapters, and an Allen wrench to replace and install your shower valve trim.

To begin replacing your trim kit, you may need to replace the locking clip if your shower valve has one. Next, replace the valve sleeve, faceplate, faucet handle, and cover. Power the water supply back on, uncover the drainage area and turn the water on to test.

Quick tip! Keep faucet grease handy! Danco Silicone Faucet Grease is waterproof and ideal for lubricating faucet stems, valves, and cartridges when repairing a leaky faucet. Plumbers Faucet and Valve Grease helps reduce friction, provides long-lasting lubrication, and helps hard-turning faucets work smoothly.

If the water is running smoothly with no sign of leaks, then your DIY project is complete!