Leaky bath faucets are often due to old stem assemblies that are worn down or corroded. Luckily, replacing the assembly is an easy fix and can stop the leak for good. Here, our bath experts walk you through how to fix a leaky bath faucet.

1. First, turn off the water supply to your faucet and open up the valves to drain any excess water.
2. Next, locate the screw on the faucet handle. (It may be underneath an insert.)
3. Use your screwdriver to remove the screw and wiggle the handle to pull it off.
4. After that, unscrew the escutcheon to reveal the stem assembly.
5. If the stem’s hex nut is exposed, use a pair of pliers to loosen it and remove the stem. If it’s not, slide a bath socket wrench onto the stem and turn it to loosen the stem.
6. Next, remove the old stem.
7. In the new stem assembly, place the new washer ring onto the new stem.
8. Spread some plumbing lubricant onto the stem’s threads, then insert the stem into the wall.
9. After that, use your pliers to tighten the new stem.
10. Remove the threaded tube from the old stem and place it on your new one so you can reattach the escutcheon.
11. Slide the escutcheon onto the stem and tighten it down.
12. For a waterproof seal, spread a thin layer of caulk between the escutcheon and the wall.
13. After that, replace your handle assembly and the faucet handle.
14. Finally, replace the screw on the faucet handle and replace the insert, if necessary.