From a dripping showerhead to a valve leaking inside the wall, shower and tub problems range from a quick cartridge swap to work behind the tile. We fix shower and tub plumbing and install new valves, trim and drains, including as part of a bathroom remodel.
Shower and tub problems we fix
- Dripping showerheads and tub spouts
- Handles that are stiff, loose or spin without stopping the water
- Sudden temperature swings, or no hot water at one shower only
- Low pressure at the shower (often a scaled showerhead or cartridge)
- Slow tub and shower drains (usually hair)
- Leaks at the tub overflow or drain shoe
- Water stains on the ceiling below a bathroom
Shower and tub installation
When you’re remodeling, it’s the best time to replace an old valve: the wall is open, and a modern pressure-balancing or thermostatic valve protects against scalding swings. We install new valves, shower and tub drains, and trim, and coordinate with your tile installer on rough-in height and depth. In older homes we also check the drain under the tub, since older drain piping often needs attention when it’s finally accessible.
What affects cost
- Cartridge repair vs. valve replacement
- Access from the front, from an adjoining closet, or through tile
- Valve brand and parts availability
- Drain and overflow work
Local notes
- Permits: Prairie Village lists remodels and “repipe/re-plumb/move drain location” as permit projects, while fixtures going back in the same location don’t need a permit. Source. Fairway treats tub and shower fixture and valve replacement as repair/maintenance. Source.
- Hard water: mineral scale clogs showerheads and wears valve cartridges. WaterOne’s 2026 report lists 135 ppm average total hardness. Source.
Shower & Tub Plumbing: common questions
Why does my shower suddenly go hot or cold?
Older two-handle and single-handle valves without pressure balancing can't compensate when someone flushes a toilet or runs a faucet. Replacing or upgrading the valve cartridge, or the valve itself, usually fixes it.
My shower drips after I turn it off. Can that be fixed without opening the wall?
Usually. A drip is most often a worn cartridge or seals, which we replace from the front through the trim. If the valve body itself is leaking inside the wall, that needs access.
Is there a leak if the ceiling under my shower is stained?
Possibly. It could be the valve, the drain connection, the overflow on a tub, or failed grout and caulk letting water behind the tile. We test each to find which, so you don't tear out more than you need to.
Does a new shower valve need a permit?
Replacing a fixture in the same location generally doesn't in Prairie Village or Fairway. Moving a drain, re-plumbing a bathroom or remodeling does; Prairie Village lists remodels and moving drain locations as permit projects.
Related services
Leak Detection & Repair
Hidden leaks behind walls, under floors and in supply lines, found and fixed.
Drain Cleaning
Kitchen, bathroom, laundry, floor drains and main sewer lines that are slow or backing up.
Faucet & Sink Repair and Installation
Dripping, leaking or low-flow faucets fixed; new kitchen and bath faucets and sinks installed.
Toilet Repair & Replacement
Running, leaking, clogged or rocking toilets repaired, or replaced and installed right.
Shower & Tub Plumbing near you
We handle shower & tub plumbing in Prairie Village and nearby: Fairway, Leawood, Lenexa, Merriam, Mission, Overland Park, Roeland Park, Shawnee, and Westwood. See all service areas.