Install Shower Fixtures
The final step that brings your shower to life. Installing trim, showerhead, and accessories is the rewarding finish after all your tile work.
Quick Summary
Shower Fixture Components
Valve Trim
The decorative plate and handle(s) that cover the rough valve in the wall. Must match the valve brand.
Shower Arm & Flange
The pipe extending from the wall that holds the showerhead. Flange covers the wall opening.
Showerhead
Fixed, rain, or handheld options. Connects to shower arm with threaded fitting.
Tub Spout
If you have a tub/shower combo. Either slip-fit (set screw) or threaded connection.
Tools & Materials
Tools
- • Adjustable pliers (wrapped in tape)
- • Screwdriver (Phillips and flat)
- • Allen wrench set
- • Pipe wrench (for stubborn fittings)
- • Level
Materials
- • Teflon tape (plumber's tape)
- • Silicone caulk (clear or matching)
- • Trim kit for your valve
- • Showerhead and arm
- • Tub spout (if needed)
Step-by-Step Installation
Install Valve Trim
- Ensure water is on and valve has been tested during rough inspection
- Remove protective cap from valve (installed during rough phase)
- Install trim plate using included screws or clips
- Attach handle to valve stem per instructions
- Tighten set screw (usually requires Allen wrench)
- Test handle operation before proceeding
Important: Trim must match your valve brand. Delta trim won't fit Moen valves, etc. Verify compatibility before purchasing.
Install Shower Arm
- Wrap threads of shower arm with Teflon tape (3-5 wraps clockwise)
- Thread shower arm into wall fitting by hand
- Use wrapped pliers to tighten (about 1/4 turn past hand-tight)
- Position arm so it angles slightly downward
- Slide flange over arm and push against tile
- Apply small bead of silicone behind flange if desired
Attach Showerhead
- Wrap threads of shower arm outlet with Teflon tape
- Hand-thread showerhead onto arm
- Tighten 1/4 turn with wrapped pliers (don't over-tighten!)
- Point showerhead toward drain
- Turn on water to test—check for leaks at connections
Pro tip: If showerhead leaks, don't just tighten more. Remove it, add more Teflon tape, and reinstall.
Install Tub Spout (If Applicable)
Slip-fit (set screw) type:
- Slide spout over copper pipe stub
- Align spout level
- Tighten set screw on bottom of spout
Threaded type:
- Apply Teflon tape to pipe threads
- Thread spout onto pipe by hand
- Tighten until snug against wall
Check: Ensure diverter (if present) is working—pull knob should redirect water from tub to shower.
Test Everything
- Turn on water and run shower for several minutes
- Check for leaks at all connections
- Test hot/cold mixing at different positions
- Verify diverter operation (tub to shower)
- Check showerhead spray pattern and pressure
- Verify anti-scald works (if equipped)