Repairs and problems
Shower controls stiff or seized
Likely causes
- Scale builds inside the cartridge in hard
- water areas and progressively stiffens the movement.
- Once a control is very stiff
- cartridge replacement is usually more reliable than attempting to free it.
Where this fits with our work
Before you commit
Scale builds inside the cartridge in hard water areas and progressively stiffens the movement.
Your questions answered
Can it be lubricated?
Only with an appropriate product on serviceable parts; most modern cartridges are sealed.
Is this a warning sign?
Yes, a seized valve can fail in an awkward position, sometimes with the water running.
Planning stiff shower controls?
Tell us the town or postcode and roughly what stage you are at. We'll tell you honestly whether it is a job we can take on.