Changing a washer!

[Madgirl2]

A tap on the sink in my bathroom needs a new washer. I thought it would just be a simple case of removing the disc on the top of the tap, unscrewing the screw and replacing the washer. However, when I unscrew the screw, there is no washer just a sealed/welded metal casing. My dad had a look at it and reckons the whole tap needs to be taken out and the washer replaced from underneath. Surely tap manufacturers wouldn't make it that difficult would they? The taps are about 9 years old -a relatively modern design. Heeeeeeelp!

[buildersmate]

Never heard of such a design. Once the rotatable bit of the tap is off, every tap I've encountered has a hexagonal nut underneath which is unscrewed. It holds the tap spindle and forms the top part of the tap body. Once off, the washer is at the base of the spindle on the bit you have unscrewed. I don't see how a one-piece tap could ever be manufactured in machined metal. Are you quite sure?

[Madgirl2]

The design you describe is what I was expecting. Now I know I'm a girlie but I consider myself to be quite handy and there definitely seems to be no washer access from the top of the tap. My dad spent ages looking at this and came to the same conclusion as me. It is weird.

[Clanad]

It sounds like either a Compression or Cartridge type shut-off mechanism. Unfortunately, most of these cannot be repaired with a new washer since they don't use them. However, you should be able to take the cartridge assembly to your DIY store and secure a replacement. They do last longer, generally, than washer type faucets... Be sure to take the removed assembly with you since there are numerous different kinds, at least here in the U.S. Best of Luck!

[Catso]

Do they only take a small amount of turn from on to off IE not many turns?

[Lady_Mari]

From one handy girlie to another: If it is of the ceramic disc type ( eg. minimal turn) then there won't be a washer & a new tap will most likely be necessary.

[Pudcat]

Miine was the ceramic type of washer and Ibought it from B&Qs but the manafacturer is firm called Tapmate Ltd. It was still under gurantee and they sent me a new cartridge very promptly.
I Just had to quote the model and other relevant details. I fitted it in minutes after turning the water off first. One thing I had trouble with, was that I didn't realise that I had to undo the tap shroud before I could put a spanner on the retaining nut. after removing that it was childs ply.

[Madgirl2]

No just the usual amount of turns really. Thanks to everyone for their advice!