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corvettecomet · Jan 14, 2011, 02:36 PM

Is there a pressure balancing valve assembly available that will fit into and existing tub/shower installation.The existing valve/faucet is 6 inches on center between the taps with the faucet in the middle. The problem we have is that we get the faucet temp set to desired shower temp and when we pull the diverter it is scalding hot water that comes out of the shower head. We do not want to have to redo our tile surround and are hoping to put a new balancing valve/faucet into the same opening. We have found that there are balancing valves out there but will not fit into the existing openings.

massplumber2008 · Jan 14, 2011, 03:03 PM

Hi CC...

That's why they make a shower remodeler/repair plate (see image), also called a "goof" plate, as it can be used to cover some mistakes that may occur during construction... ;)

The goof plate is sold at all home improvement stores that I know of or you can definitely find one at a local plumbing supply store.

Here, the old valve is removed and the new valve is installed and then the goof plate is installed under the new trim... works pretty great consideringyou won't need to install new tile... although old tile will need to be carefully chipped/removed according to the plate outline.

I attached a picture of a regular valve and then the same valve (different handle) with a goof plate under the trim... see other images.

Questions? Let me know...

Mark

corvettecomet · Jan 14, 2011, 03:28 PM

Thanks Mark. Does this plate allow for a faucet spout as well as the water controls in that one opening or does the faucet end up in a different location?

massplumber2008 · Jan 14, 2011, 03:35 PM

The spout would need to be added below the plate. If needed, you can always access the pipes from behind the wall... maybe. Here, if possible, you can cut an access hole in a wall/closet behind the tub/shower valve and then do the work through there. The access hole can be covered with a spring-loaded access panel if you don't want to do repairs to the wall (sold at home depot).

corvettecomet · Jan 14, 2011, 04:17 PM

Thanks again Mark. Not quite what I was hoping for though. I would really like to install the new balancing valve in the same cutout that the existing faucet and taps are in. I guess there is nothing on the market that will fit in there?

massplumber2008 · Jan 14, 2011, 04:34 PM

Not that I know of, but if you call your local plumbing supply house and speak with a salesperson they may be able to find you something that works with the goof plate... ;)

Good luck!

Mark