Now build a car - no problem, but Oli don't know plumbing! So....can anyone tell me how to fix a leaking tap???? I need to know what tools/bits I need as well as I have no idea! Its one of our bathroom sink ones that started with a drip and is now a proper leak! They're the kind of 70's/80's throw back ones which aren't the traditional ones but aren't the fancy new ones....I can post a pic later if needed....I'm sure its pretty simple just a new washer but where do you start??? Big tool no. 1? Cheers in advance....Oli.

What you need is a tap reseating tool, available from b&q's etc or machine mart (£9.34) and a bag of tap washers. basically the tool recuts a new seat for the rubber washer, it comes with interchangable threads and cutters to fit most taps.

probably cheaper and easier to buy a new tap. Make sure you turn the water off at the stopcock before taking anything to bits, otherwise you WILL have a leak!

Could be that it just needs a new tap washer, this starts as a drip and gradually gets worse and worse.
They cost just pennies from any DIY store, you will need to be able to turn off your water supply to the the tap or you will get very wet. The tap stays where it is and comes apart in situ, the main inner part with the thread on will lift out easily enough and then you will see the old washer, it should show significant signs of wear, just swap it for the new one and put back together.
Its a doddle mate.

I'm no expert but it's not that hard as long as everything comes to pieces OK.

Turn off stop cock and run off water from the tap in question. (Turn off heating, immersion, etc.)

Remove tap top knob (screw or Allen grub screw)

Remove cover cap

Take out tap body (adjustable spanner)

Fit new washer (little screw or nut. Gently does it. They can be brittle)

Clean everything up and reassemble

Turn water back on


(Hope I've got this right)

Paul G


3 replies in the time it took me to type this.

I must learn to type quicker

[Edited on 16/12/06 by 907]

As paul says. Easy aslong as you can stop the water to the tap.

Taps arnt cheap and if you dont fancy having a go at fitting then its a plumbers job so a new washer is they way to go.

Depends. are they quarter turns or traditional?

u2u is easier! ( for me anyway!!)

OK thanks guys gonna fiddle tomorow. Oli.

Oli, Don't forget your wellies

Caber