How To Remove Shower Handle Without Screws

Stuck trying to remove a shower handle but can’t find any screws? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! 

Many shower handles use hidden mechanisms to detach.  

So before you throw in the towel and call a plumber, take a deep breath and read this post.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some simple steps on how to remove shower handle without screws. Plus, I’ll answer some FAQs at the end.

Find Out What The Handle Is

The first thing you should do is to thoroughly inspect the shower handle. 

There are two main possibilities for handles without visible screws:

• Set screw hidden beneath a cover: Some handles have a small cover hiding a set screw that needs to be loosened first.
• Pressure-fit handle: These handles are simply held in place by friction.

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Also see if there are any logos or brand names on the handle or or the escutcheon (trim plate) around the base. If there is, you can look up removal instructions online. 

Many manufacturers have video tutorials or guides for their products.

Gather The Tools

Before you start prying and prodding, make sure you have the right tools for the job.

You need a flathead screwdriver, a putty knife, and some safety gear like gloves and goggles. You might also want to grab a utility knife, a  pair of channel locks or pliers, and some penetrating oil.

You should as turn off the water supply

Locate the shut-off valve for your shower, usually near the wall behind the shower handle or under the sink below. 

Turn it clockwise until it stops completely to shut off the water supply.

Removing The Shower Handle

It’s time to get to work! 

Follow these steps to remove that shower handle without screws:

#1 Locate Attachment Points

First things first, you gotta find where that handle is attached. Look closely around the edges and corners for any potential attachment points.

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These little things might be hiding under caps or covers, so use your flathead screwdriver to gently pry them off. 

#2 Gently Pry with Flathead Screwdriver

After you’ve found those sneaky attachment points, grab your flathead screwdriver and gently slide it into any gaps or seams you see. 

Give it a little nudge and start prying the handle away from the wall. 

Remember, easy does it – we’re aiming to remove the handle, not wreck the tiles or the handle itself.  With a bit of finesse and patience, that handle will start to loosen up and come off smoothly.

#3 Wiggle and Lift the Handle

While you’re prying away with the screwdriver, give the handle a little wiggle action too. 

Move it back and forth gently to help loosen it up even more. Keep at it, going around the handle, prying and wiggling, prying and wiggling. 

You’ll start to feel it giving way, getting looser with each wiggle.

 It’s all about that persistence and gentle finesse – just keep at it, and before you know it, that handle will be ready to come off without a fuss. 

#4 Use Putty Knife to Completely Separate

You’ve pried and wiggled your way to a loosened handle, so now it’s time to bring in the putty knife for the final push. 

Carefully slide that putty knife between the handle and the wall, and start lifting the handle away from its hiding spot. Remember, slow and steady wins the race here – we don’t want any accidental slips or damages. 

With a gentle touch and a bit of patience, that handle will start to come off completely. 

Keep lifting and separating until it’s free and clear!

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Special Cases

While the steps above should work for most shower handles without visible screws, there are a couple of special cases to be aware of:

End Cap/Button Unscrews

Sometimes, that little end cap or button on the handle can be unscrewed, and it should have a set screw or other fastener underneath. 

If you think this might be the case, grab the channel locks or pliers and wrap them in some electrical tape for extra grip.

Then, try unscrewing that cap or button to see what’s beneath. Just be gentle, so you don’t damage anything, and see if you can uncover the secret to taking that handle off.

Entire Handle Unthreads

Sometimes, the whole handle can actually unscrew from the valve stem or mounting base. 

If all your prying and wiggling hasn’t done the trick, give this a shot.

Try turning the handle either clockwise or counterclockwise to see if it will start unscrewing from the base.

FAQs

How Do You Remove A Shower Wand?

To remove a shower wand, turn the shower arm counter-clockwise to detach the whole thing. If the shower wand is stuck, you can try using adjustable pliers or a wrench to grip and unscrew it.

Do Shower Handles Wear Out?

Yes, shower handles can wear out over time due to constant use, leading to issues like leaks, difficulty in turning the handle, and unexpected temperature changes.