Moen is upgrading their tub and shower valve system, and for most homeowners and all contractors, this is great news. M-CORE valves are easy to install and give you so much flexibility to upgrade down the road. Some people who may have concerns are homeowners with their Align showers built on the old Moentrol system. What happens if you need to replace your Align trim? Do you have to replace the valve, too? Or maybe you want an Align shower with M-CORE. Is that available? These are questions that need to be answered.
Frequently Asked Questions About Align + M-CORE
If you have a question that is not answered here, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Can I Upgrade Align Trim to the M-CORE Valve System?
Yes! But only with M-CORE Series 3. You can see all Align M-CORE trim options here. You can get Align valve trim, transfer trim, valve with transfer trim, as well as complete shower and tub and shower trim options. The designs aren't exactly the same, but they remain true to the spirit of the Align collection. On the left, we have old Align, and on the right, we have the new:
Is the New Trim Backwards Compatible?
No. If you want to install new Belfield trim in your shower, it will have to be on an M-CORE valve. The reason is it's a completely different connection and cartridge system.
Will Moen Still Make Align Trim for Moentrol Valves?
If you have the Align collection installed on the Moentrol valve system, you don't have to upgrade to M-CORE when you want to replace the trim. Align trim options will still be available for:
- Moentrol valve only
- Moentrol valve w/ transfer
- Moentrol transfer only
What's Different About the New Align Trim?
It looks very similar to the old trim, except the new Align designs are sleeker, have tighter edges, and do a better job of concealing hardware and the other parts of the valve that you don't want to see.
How Do I Know if My Align Shower Is Built on M-CORE Valves or Moentrol?
Although you may not know much about what you're looking at when you examine a valve, it's pretty easy to tell the difference. Both valves are made with brass bodies, but M-CORE (pictured on the left) has more of a polished sheen to it. Whereas, Moentrol (pictured on the right) has more matted brass color.
Note: the pictured valves are for valve and transfer assemblies, which allow you to divert water from the tub to the shower, and vice versa. If you don't have a tub, it's just a shower installation, then the valve configuration won't include the top part (diverter).
Buy Moen Align at PlumbersStock
As Moen describes it, From large, open master baths to minimalist powder rooms, Align faucets and accessories bring a refreshed modern look to your home with simple lines and contemporary style.
If you need anything from the Align collection or a Moentrol valve, we've got it here at PlumbersStock. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
