Have you ever noticed that unsightly hole in the wall where the pipes come through? That’s where an escutcheon comes into play. An escutcheon, also known as a flange or cover plate, is a decorative piece that hides the hole and adds a touch of elegance to your plumbing fixtures. In this article, we will guide you through the process of replacing an escutcheon to improve the aesthetics of your plumbing system.
Why Replace an Escutcheon?
You may wonder why it’s necessary to replace an escutcheon if it’s just a decorative piece. Well, while its primary function is to enhance the appearance of your plumbing fixtures, a worn-out or rusty escutcheon can diminish its effectiveness. With a wide range of shapes, sizes, and finishes available, you’ll easily find the perfect escutcheon to match your project. Replacing an escutcheon is also a straightforward task, making it a simple and effective way to upgrade your plumbing’s look.
Easy Removal for Most Escutcheons
Removing most escutcheons is a breeze. For example, the shower arm escutcheon simply slips over the shower arm and snugly fits against the wall. To replace it, you just need to remove the shower head, slide off the old escutcheon, replace it with the new one, and reattach the shower head.
Dealing with Hard-to-Reach Escutcheons
What about the escutcheons that are harder to access, such as those secured by shut-off valves under sinks or behind toilets? The process is similar, but it requires a few extra steps.
First, shut off the water supply to your house and drain the water from the lines by turning on a few faucets until they run dry. Make sure to have towels or a dish pan handy to catch any water that may escape.
Next, remove the valve in front of the decorative escutcheon. If the valve is threaded, you can easily remove it with pliers. Be sure to use a soft cloth to protect the valve from damage.
On the other hand, if the valve is soldered, it may present a challenge unless you have plumbing experience. In this case, you can use sturdy shears or tin snips to cut away the old escutcheon.
If you removed the shut-off valve, simply slide the new escutcheon onto the pipe and reattach the valve in the same way you removed it. However, if you cut off the old escutcheon, you have the option to carefully cut a new one to match the angle or use a hinged escutcheon for convenience.
Once the new escutcheon is in place, turn the water back on, inspect your work, and admire the beautiful upgrade you’ve achieved.
Conclusion
Replacing an escutcheon is a simple yet impactful way to enhance the appearance of your plumbing fixtures. By following these steps, you can easily remove the old escutcheon and replace it with a shiny new one. Don’t settle for an ugly hole in the wall when you can add a touch of elegance to your home. Upgrade your plumbing’s look and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!
Need help measuring an escutcheon? Watch this quick video to guide you through the process: Video Link
