How to fix a leaking tap

A leaking tap is a common plumbing occurrence in most households.There are several causes of a leaking tap, but most are simple to fix. It's an easy step-by-step job that can save you money and wasted water.

Safety

Always keep tools and materials away from children.
Read the instructions before beginning your project.
Consult your council or water authority for legal requirements.

Materials

12mm (1/2") washers are most commonly used inside the home
O-ring
Jumper valve
Reseating kit (if necessary)
Cloth, to protect chrome when loosening and tightening

Step 1. Washers

There are three washers that could be causing the tap to drip and may need replacing; the o-ring, the body washer and the jumper valve. These come in standard sizes, but to be sure that your replacement is correct take the worn washer into Bunnings.

Step 2. Replacing The Washer

1. Firstly make sure to turn off your water main in the house. Your water main will either be out on the street or in your front yard if you live in a house. If you live in a flat or townhouse the mains tap will probably be inside the bathroom or laundry.
2. Open the tap to release any water left in the pipe.
3. Place the plug in the basin to prevent any tap parts from disappearing into the drain.
4. Remove the tap's cover with a screwdriver on the handle to expose the screw. The screw is most likely under the hot or cold sign. Some taps will have screws positioned on the side.
5. Undo the screw and remove the handle.
6. If the tap is shrouded with a metal cover, unscrew by hand or use a wrench. Make sure to use a cloth over the cover to protect the chrome from scratching.
7. Use a spanner or wrench to unscrew the tap bonnet. Completely take out the headgear, you should now see the large body washer, the o-ring and the jumper valve.
8. The jumper valve will just fall out.
9. Replace the body washer, the o-ring and the jumper valve then refit bonnet & spindle - make sure not to over tighten the nuts.
10. Re-assemble the tap, close it and then open the water main.
11. Check that the leaking has ceased.

Step 3. Reseating A Tap

If your tap continues to leak after replacing the washers it will need to be reseated. Reseating resurfaces your tap, so that the washer has the tightest seal. The simplest way to do this is to purchase a reseating kit which generally comes with all of the washers and seals to simply reseat your tap.

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3 Steps to Create a Handicapped Roll in Shower with Style

Physical mobility challenges should not prevent someone from having a stylish bathroom – no matter how big your bathroom is! If you, or a loved one, is in a wheelchair it is now possible to remodel a bathroom and design a roll in shower which is both stylish and functional. Learn below 3 steps to make a roll in shower really look sharp.

Step 1 – Choose the right shower base – When many people think of a roll in shower, they envision a white institutional looking acrylic or fiberglass base like you would see in a hospital. With the development of glass reinforced plastic bases (which are made of the same materials which are used in aircraft) a tile or stone roll in shower can now provide a zero threshold entry for easy access with the high style of a spa shower. These base systems (which are usually tiled over) actually sit on the floor joists, can support heavy loads, can be cut to different sizes and shapes, and can even be used in conjunction with floor heating systems – so you’ll get the spa experience even with the functionality for wheelchair access!

Luxury roll in shower with a stationary shower screen

Roll in shower base set on joists during installation – before tile

Step 2 – Select the right glass enclosure or choose to design a one level “wet room” – If you’re more traditional you’ll probably want to choose a glass enclosure for the roll in shower while still providing an open entry of 32” to 36”. Three options to consider would be (1) a stationary shower screen, (2) a pivoting shower screen or (3) a curved glass block shower wall. Make sure to work with your bathroom contractor or designer to ensure there is enough space not only to get into the shower but to maneuver once you’re inside the space.

Stationary glass enclosure in a zero threshold shower

For a more open feeling another option is a single level “wet room.” A wet room is created by waterproofing the entire bathroom floor and partially up the walls to make one open space. Wet rooms have been used extensively in Europe and Asia where bathroom spaces are smaller. This concept can be an excellent way to create a roll in shower in small 5’ x 7’ bathrooms you find in many United States homes.

Step 3 – Use stylish accessories in the right places – In many handicapped showers accessories are not really options – but can be necessities to provide a safe and functioning shower for someone in a wheelchair and/or their caregiver. Today’s modern roll in shower can be equipped with items like decorative grab bars, body dryers, high end hand held showers, brazilian walnut or teak fold down seats and recessed soap and shampoo niches. It can be beneficial to consult with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (these are people who have specialized training in accessible and universal design) or an Occupational Therapist on both the selection and placement of these accessories.

AKW fold down seat in a barrier free shower