Q: The shower handles in our 24-year-old home are getting harder and harder to pull out to turn the water on! What should we do?

A: Of course, it is difficult to diagnose your problem without seeing it. However, it sounds like the valve stem is worn and needs to be replaced. Some manufactures have repair kits you can purchase to take care of this problem. Others such as Moen (which I suspect is your type) have replacement cartridges available. Normally it's a waste of time to try and lubricate your old part. I wouldn't even try.

If your make and model is a common type, any plumbing or home improvement store should have the part. Most people who rate themselves as average or better at home improvements can handle this job.

If you damage the valve body in the process of the repair, the complete valve has to be removed and replaced. This is a job for a qualified licensed plumbing firm.

If you need to contact any other type of home improvement specialist, visit our site at: http://www.servicemagic.com, enter your request, and let us match you with the ideal service professional in your area.

Good luck!

Vince McDonald McDonald Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Sacramento, CA www.mcdonaldphac.com (916) 456-4738