How to Replace Leaking Bathtub Diverter Spout

Fig.1 Gary removing 
bathtub spout

By Gary Boutin

Supplies and Tools:
Channel Lock wrench
White Teflon tape
Diverter valve

Some bathtubs have a tub spout with a metal knob on top to allow the water to be diverted to the shower head. Other spouts can have the valve close to the shower wall. With time the diverter gets clogged with water deposits and it can no longer close completely to allow the water to move freely to the shower head. This causes the water to drip from the spout and the shower. To correct this problem, the diverter must be removed and replaced. It sounds easy, but if you have an older model it can be difficult to match the pipes with the new diverter. 

This post shows the three steps needed to replace the damaged diverter valve.

Step 1: Fig.1 shows the handyman remove the old diverter valve from the bathtub. Fig.2 shows a Channel locks® pliers which is the perfect tool to remove the old diverter valve. Use the Channel locks® to twist off the diverter spout from the copper or galvanized pipe located on the shower wall.

Fig.2 Channel locks®

Step 2: Go to your favorite hardware store, purchase the same diverter valve that was removed from the tub area. Fig.3 shows is the finished diverter valve with a new wall ring.

Fig.3 New spout installed

Step 3: Now that the spout works correctly, caulk the edges of the spout and the shower wall.  It looks better. Use white silicone around the tub spout to hide any cracks, but latex caulking will work well too. Now you have a new tub diverter spout in your shower unit.

Update: DIY Advisor has New blogs check them today:

• Handyman Blog: DIY Advisor
• DIY Advisor Sitemap
• Food Blog: From Kiwis To Pistachios
• Food Blog Sitemap
• Tool Blog: DIY Advisor Toolbox
• Tool Blog Sitemap
• Artwork Blog: Light in Dark Artwork
• Artwork Blog Sitemap
• Class-A Tests: DIY Class-A Drivers License Tests
• Class-A Tests Sitemap: Class-A Sitemap
• DIY Poem: DIY Poem Meter Blog
• DIY Poem Sitemap: DIY Poem Sitemap

• Cookie Alert: European Union laws requires that you know that this blog uses cookies. If you are concerned about this please click here to see how Google uses this information.

Note: The DIY Advisor assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any jobs. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed contractor if in doubt about any steps on these posts. All names were changed to protect client's privacy. DIY Advisor. Reproduction of site content including photos without permission prohibited. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2011-