The trim kit is the part you see and the rough-in valve is the part that installs in the wall and connects to your hot and cold water lines. Both items are required for a functioning fixture.

What is a rough-in valve for a shower?

The rough-in valve is the heart of system. This is the part of your shower system, in-wall faucet or deck mounted tub filler that lives behind the wall, precisely controlling water temperature and volume.

Do I need rough-in valve?

A Rough Valve is a REQUIRED PART OF EVERY SHOWER. Regardless of the shower trim kit style, the valve fixture basically does the same thing. It mixes hot and cold water to create warm water suitable for your shower. Most shower rough-in valves have 4 ports.

What is a shower valve kit?

Thermostatic valves are designed to maintain both water pressure and temperature. A thermostatic shower valve often includes a volume control feature that allows users to set the amount of water coming from each water outlet.

How do you know what shower cartridge you need?

Use a caliper or ruler and measure the cartridge. Do this by measuring from the base to the tip (from seat to splines). Pay attention to the length tier of your cartridge (Lengths range from 1–12). Next, identify the broach pattern with the broach chart (see page B-5).

What is the difference between a rough in valve and a diverter valve?

It is important to know that rough-in valves do not work as a volume control, meaning they don’t change the water flow. Shower valves are always required for any shower set-up and diverter valves are an add-on used to direct the flow of water from your shower valve to the shower head or hand shower.

Can you use a shower tub valve for shower only?

Can a tub and shower faucet be used just for a shower? Most tub and shower combination faucets can be installed in a shower without using the tub spout. If you do not wish to use the tub function, you can plug the outlet for the tub spout on the valve and not install the spout on the tub wall.

Do showers need shut off valves?

There usually is not a shutoff valve for just the shower. The toilet has it’s own shutoff, and sinks have their own shutoffs under the sink. But tub and showers typically do not have their own shutoffs. You’ll usually see a copper line come off the hot water heater and run off towards the kitchen and baths.

What is the rough in height for a shower valve?

Shower Valve Height A height of 28 inches, or 2 feet 4 inches, is standard for valves in bathtub shower units. For shower stalls, install the valve at the standard height of 48 inches, or 4 feet. Install faucets at the same height as the valve, equidistant from the valve.

What are the different types of shower valves?

The two main varieties of shower valves depending on their functionality are Manual Mixer Valve and Thermostatically Controlled Valve. Most shower valves – other than the basic ones – come with the diverter option. You can flick the diverter switch to turn on the taps or permit water into the shower head.

How much would a plumber charge to replace a shower valve?

If you need a plumber to install your shower valve, you can expect to pay between $375 and $575 for the service. Most plumbers will be able to complete the job in two hours or less. You also have the option of replacing the valve yourself. This can typically be done for about $135.

How long do shower valves last?

The valves are easy to move against pressure. Control the volume from off to full on by leaving them set to the same temperature. The system costs about $30 to replace, but they last for 20 to 30 years.