How to Install a Shower Head

It's a two-minute job that leaks 30% of the time because of one missing step: fresh thread tape.

Common causes

• Old thread tape not removed
• Cross-threaded on install
• Cracked shower arm inside the wall
• Corroded threads on the arm

Step-by-step

1. 01Unscrew the old head — turn counter-clockwise from the shower arm
2. 02Clean the arm threads with a rag
3. 03Wrap fresh Teflon tape 3–4 times clockwise around the threads
4. 04Hand-tighten the new head, then snug 1/4 turn with a wrench and a cloth

When to call Northbridge

• Shower arm cracked at the wall
• Leaks continue after re-taping
• Wall tile is loose around the arm
• You want a body spray or rainfall head added