How much does it cost to fix a leaky shower faucet?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Faucets are an important part of your shower, controlling the flow of water. However, they can break and wear down, and leaks are one of the most common issues. It is easy to spot a leaky faucet because water drips uncontrollably. This can be a frustrating issue because it leads to wasted water and possible water damage. Homeowners should seek rapid repairs for leaky shower faucets as soon as possible to avoid further issues.

The national cost average is $75 to $200 for leaky shower faucet repairs, with most homeowners paying $150 to repair the washers in a leaking compression faucet. This project’s low cost is $50 to clear calcium buildup on a facet. The high cost is $350 to replace a broken faucet valve.

Cost to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet

Cost to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet by Type of Faucet

Various shower faucets are available, from compression faucets to diverter faucets. The type can directly impact the cost to fix the leak because some faucets are easier to work with and simpler to repair than others. The table below shows common faucet types and the average repair costs for each.

Compression Faucet Repair

The average cost to repair a leak in a compression faucet is between $50 and $200. Compression faucets are one of the oldest varieties and most commonly found in older homes. They are easy to spot because they have different handles for hot and cold water. They are one of the cheapest types to own and repair, but they are also highly prone to leaking from washer erosion.

Two-Handle Faucet Repair

Homeowners pay between $55 and $215 to repair a leaky two-handle faucet. A two-handle faucet is one with two handles, and each handle has a separate role. Washer erosion can occur in these shower faucets, and leaks become more likely as the washers wear down. A plumber may need to replace the damaged washers.

Diverter Faucet Repair

The average price for professional leak repairs for diverter faucets ranges from $60 to $250. A diverter faucet is usually found in shower-tub units. The diverter faucet controls where the water comes out - from the bath spout or shower head. The main issue with these faucets is the diverter, and the valve inside can break, so it may need patching or replacing.

Cartridge Faucet Repair

Homeowners pay between $65 and $220 to have a leaky cartridge faucet professionally repaired. Cartridge faucets contain cartridges to control the water flow. These cartridges can wear and may require repair when leaks occur. It is also common for cartridge faucets to need O-ring replacements. An O-ring prevents water from splashing everywhere.

One-Handle Faucet Repair

Expect to pay between $65 and $220 to repair a one-handle faucet. These faucets are easy to identify because they have one handle. One-handed faucets can have problems with O-rings that may cause leaks. To repair this problem and stop the leak, the O-rings may need to be replaced.

Cost to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet by Type of Repair

Several parts of a shower may be to blame when it is leaking. Leaks can be caused by issues with washers, cartridges, and valves. The cost of your leaky shower repair may depend on what is causing the problem and how much work is needed to fix it. The table below shows common types of leaky shower repair and the average costs for each.

Faucet Washer Repair

Expect to pay between $50 and $100 to professionally repair your faucet’s washers. Washers are small and simple parts, but they are significant in preventing leaks. They are made of rubber and provide a seal to stop leaks. They may erode and wear down, so water starts slipping through the cracks. Damaged washers often must be replaced, but a skilled plumber might be able to repair them, saving money.

Shower Head Repair

Homeowners pay between $50 and $150 for professional shower head repairs. Shower heads can also cause leaks in the shower. They may get worn down, and the fittings connecting them to the hose may become loose, so water might start dripping around the edges of these areas. Damaged heads may require patching and readjustment or the application of new seals.

Corroded Faucet

The average repair costs for corroded faucets range from $50 to $200. Corrosion builds on and around shower faucets because they are exposed to the elements and chemical products. This can lead to discolored patches developing around the faucets, making them unattractive and interfering with water quality. If the corrosion is left to develop, it could lead to holes or cracks in the faucet that allow a leak. Plumbers may be able to use certain cleaning products to remove the corrosion.

Faucet Handle Repair

Homeowners pay from $50 to $200 for professional shower faucet handle repairs. A damaged handle may cause a leak because water might start seeping from around the handle. Fortunately, handles are simple and inexpensive to repair, but it depends on the model you are dealing with and the damage’s extent. Lengthy repairs for high-end handles cost more than readjusting or tightening a budget handle. A common issue that arises with handles is they may get cracked, and a plumber can usually patch the damage with epoxy.

Faucet Cartridge Repair

Expect to pay between $65 and $220 for professional cartridge repairs. Cartridge faucets are used to control the water flow and temperature. These pieces may get corroded or worn, allowing water to leak, and they often must be replaced. However, it may be possible to repair them, and a professional plumber might be able to replace the O-rings or adjust the threads to resolve the problem.

Faucet Diverter Repair

Repairing a shower diverter costs an average of $75 to $150. The diverter controls the flow of water in tub-shower combo units. There are various diverter types. Some have levers that turn to adjust the flow, while others have knobs or buttons. All units can wear and corrode, leading to leaks, so your diverter may need cleaning or adjusting to start working again.

Faucet Valve Repair

Homeowners pay $75 to $250 for faucet valve repairs. Valves play a key role in the shower, controlling the water flow. However, they may get damaged or wear, leading to gaps and openings that may cause leaks. Plumbers may need to tighten them or apply Teflon tape to repair them. They may also patch more serious damages like cracks.

Leaky Shower Faucet Repair Cost by Type of Replacement

In many cases, leaky shower faucets are caused by broken or damaged parts. It is also often the case these parts cannot be repaired and need replacing. The cost of your faucet repairs may be highly influenced by the type of replacement part or parts you require. The table below shows common replacement parts for broken faucets and showers and the average costs for each.

Faucet Cartridge Replacement

Expect to pay between $100 and $250 to replace a shower faucet cartridge. Cartridges are not expensive components, but the labor required to replace them can add up because the faucet must be removed and opened to access and remove the old faucet.

Faucet Washer Replacement

Expect to pay between $100 and $250 to replace faucet washers. This is a common repair job for shower faucets because washers do not last forever and naturally erode and wear. Washers are inexpensive for material costs, but you must pay the labor fees to have them fitted and remove the old ones.

Shower Head Replacement

Replacing a shower head due to a leak costs $100 to $250. The price mostly depends on the head type. Inexpensive handheld shower head options cost $100 to $150 installed, while high-end rain shower heads are closer to $150 to $250 installed.

Faucet Diverter Replacement

Expect to pay between $150 and $300 to replace a shower diverter. Diverters leak due to issues with interior components, wear, or become damaged from an accident. The old diverter must be removed and a new one fitted.

Faucet Handle Replacement

It costs between $150 to $350 to have shower faucet handles replaced. Handles are to blame when leaks occur, and you may notice water dripping from around or behind the handle. It may need replacing in this case. The price depends on the handle type, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious and expensive handles with elegant designs.

Faucet Valve Replacement

The cost for faucet valve replacement averages $150 to $350. Faulty valves are often the cause of leaky shower faucets, and the valve must be replaced if it is cracked or damaged beyond repair. The exact price depends on the valve type, and certain shower valves are more expensive than others.

Labor Costs to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet

When you are dealing with plumbing, hire a professional. Many times the problem turns out to be bigger than you thought and could cost more long-term. Usually, the faucet must be removed and taken apart when fixing leaky faucets to determine what is wrong and make the necessary adjustments and repairs. This requires skill and experience, which is why it is strongly recommended to hire a professional unless you have plumbing experience.

Plumbers usually charge for their services by the hour, ranging from $50 to $200. The rates for plumbers vary from state to state, and more experienced plumbers may charge more. Many also have a call-out fee or minimum charge of around $50 to $100. Some also charge extra if you live far away and they have to travel long distances to get to your home.

Repair vs Replace a Leaky Shower Faucet

In some cases, homeowners may hesitate between having their faucets repaired or replaced. The average cost of repair is between $75 and $200, while replacements cost between $150 and $350. So, it might be a better option to replace your faucets if the price of your repairs is high. This is especially relevant if you have very old faucets due for replacement or the damage is serious, such as valve breaks or serious corrosion buildup. You may also want to get new faucets to upgrade your bathroom’s aesthetics, but it is important to find models that fit with the theme, and replacements usually take longer than repairs.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Aerator

When repairing an existing faucet, you can install an aerator to reduce the water flow for more energy efficiency. The cost for an aerator is $5 to $10 plus installation. If you opt for professional installation, the total cost averages $50 to $100.

Replace Caulking

Replacing caulking goes a long way toward making the shower and faucets look new. This is an inexpensive way to dress your shower area. Expect to pay $100 to $150 to remove the old caulk and install new caulk​.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Type of leak. Try to pinpoint the type of leak you have. This can make certain the plumber has the parts necessary to fix the problem in one visit.
• Permit. You do not need a permit to repair a leaky shower faucet. However, a permit might be required if the job becomes bigger. Your plumber can advise you on whether a permit is necessary for the work. The average cost for a permit is $75.
• License. If you are using a licensed and insured plumber, you can rest assured they are trained in shower faucet repair. However, if you hire a handyman, you may be working with someone who does not have the training or knowledge necessary for the job. Check out the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association and the National Kitchen and Bath Association to find someone you know can do a good job.
• Warranty. If your faucets are not that old, check the warranty because it may cover repairs.
• DIY. DIY may be cheaper but leaves you with the mess, cleanup, and no warranty. In addition, problems that crop up may be outside the scope of your ability. It is best to work with a professional plumber for leaky faucet repairs.
• Plumbing. Inspect the plumbing-related items in your house before making the appointment. It is less expensive to get everything done in one visit. If you also have a running toilet or need to fix a dripping tub faucet, now is the time.
• Age. The age of your leaking shower faucet can be a factor. For an older faucet, parts may be more expensive, and you may need multiple parts.