How to replace shower taps?

[beemerx65]

hi all. I have a 90’s bathroom that unfortunately the tap seats have finally gave way. As I haven’t got the budget or the time to fully renovate. He suggested to me that he could fit a mixer tap but I would have to replace about 6 tiles. Would I need to re waterproof that area before I fit new tiles

 

[EricL]

Hello @beemerx65 

If the waterproofing membrane behind the tile is compromised, it will be necessary to remove all the tiles and reapply a new waterproofing membrane. These membranes are applied as a single homogenous layer; it can't be patched as the old and new waterproofing don't bond together. As a possible option, I propose looking at the backwall of this area where the taps are. Is it in the cupboard or linen closet? Is it accessible, because if it is, it would be better to plumb that spot from the plasterboard area.

This will have the effect of minimal disruption to the water proofing membrane of the shower area. The existing tiles can be replaced, and a new hole can be drilled for a shower mixer or if the existing hole is big enough you could even use that spot for the shower mixer. I would also like to suggest looking at the  HydroSeal Tap Seat Replacement Kit, this kit allows you to install new seats for your shower mixer taps. Another product I recommend is the Quoss Reno Transformer Freestyle Shower Mixer. This allows you to upgrade your shower taps to a mixer without having to re-tile or remove your existing shower taps. It can be installed even if the seat is damaged. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[beemerx65]

Thanks Eric. Unfortunately it is a single brick internal wall.  Hos long could it last ? The tap seat has actually collapsed and a bit is missing. Out of curiosity would one of the cubicles ( ready made with the floor be a cheaper cost to Reno the bathroom or maybe mr wet wall sheets ? All advice appreciated to reno the bathroom 

[EricL]

Hello @beemerx65 

If your plumber is really careful you might be able to repair it using your original plan. 

Technically the shower set with an acrylic liner is an enclosed space, but I would recommend checking the rules and regulations of your local council in regards to installation before you purchase the kit. Using the wet wall art also falls into the same category, so it would be best to be sure before moving forward. 

To answer your question, the shower set, and wall art sheets are affordable, but its the installation cost that is the unknown quantity. I propose getting a few quotes from a couple of installers in order to give you a ballpark figure of the ongoing rate for shower installations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[MitchellMc]

Hi @beemerx65,

I just wanted to double-check that it was a plumber who provided the information about the seat being damaged. They can certainly wear down and crack, but it would be unusual for one to collapse; certainly not out of the realm of possibility though.

You could try the HydroSeal Tap Seat Replacement Kit, though these are typically used to repair unevenly worn seats or seats with minor cracks.

Mitchell

[beemerx65]

Hi Mitchell

yes it was checked by a plumber. He showed me it sadly there was about a 5mm gap in the seat from it breaking 🙄

cheers 

[EricL]

Hi @beemerx65 

Thanks for letting us know. Please make sure to post an update once you've decided on a course of action. I'm sure our members will be keen to follow your repair quest. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric