How do I fix a dripping bathtub faucet in an older Vancouver home with a three-handle valve?

A dripping three-handle bathtub faucet typically needs new washers or O-rings in the valve stems, which is a manageable DIY repair for most homeowners. Three-handle tub valves (separate hot, cold, and diverter handles) were common in Vancouver homes built from the 1940s through 1970s and use compression-style valve stems that rely on rubber washers to create a watertight seal.

Start by shutting off the water supply — look for shut-off valves under the house, in the basement, or at the main water meter. If you can't locate individual fixture shut-offs, you may need to turn off water to the entire house. Remove the handle screws (often hidden under decorative caps that pop off) and pull the handles straight off. You'll see packing nuts that hold the valve stems in place.

Use an adjustable wrench to remove the packing nuts by turning counterclockwise. The valve stems should thread out easily once the nuts are removed. At the bottom of each stem, you'll find a rubber washer held by a brass screw — this washer is likely worn, cracked, or warped, allowing water to seep past when the valve is closed. Replace both the washer and the brass screw, as old screws often strip when tightened against new washers.

In older Vancouver homes, you may encounter galvanized steel supply lines that have corroded or mineral buildup that prevents valve stems from seating properly. If the valve seats (the metal surface the washer presses against) are pitted or rough, they'll need to be dressed smooth with a valve seat dresser tool, or the entire valve assembly may need replacement. Cast iron drain lines in pre-war Vancouver homes are usually fine for this repair, but if you're dealing with corroded galvanized supply lines, this might be an opportunity to consider upgrading to copper or PEX.

Take the old washers and stems to a plumbing supply store like Wolseley, Noble Trade, or a local hardware store to ensure you get exact replacements. Rubber washers come in different sizes and hardness ratings — using the wrong size or type will result in continued dripping. Apply a thin coat of plumber's grease to the new washers and O-rings before installation.

When to call a professional: If the valve stems are seized in place, the valve seats are severely damaged, or you discover the entire valve body is corroded, it's time for a licensed plumber. Older three-handle valves sometimes require complete replacement, which involves cutting into the wall and potentially updating plumbing to current BC Building Code standards. If your home still has original galvanized supply lines, a plumber can assess whether it makes sense to upgrade the entire bathroom plumbing while the wall is open.

Consider this an opportunity to upgrade — modern pressure-balanced or thermostatic mixing valves provide better temperature control and anti-scald protection required by current BC Building Code. If you're planning any bathroom renovation in the next few years, replacing the old three-handle valve with a modern single-handle system might make more sense than repeatedly repairing aging components.

Need help finding a bathroom contractor for a larger plumbing upgrade? Vancouver Bathrooms can match you with local professionals who specialize in older Vancouver homes and understand the unique challenges of pre-war and post-war plumbing systems.