Two questions about this pic - mortar and spigot

[vinny186]

I need to patch a few holes in the mortar from wasps so i won't need more than a cups worth. Can i buy it in small quantities?

The spigot handle broke off but i've come across another handle for that type of spigot. This might be a dumb question but if I want to remove the broken handle I'll need to unscrew the screw that holds it in place. Will I need to shut off the water first? There isn't a local shut off so I'd have to shut off the main which isn't a big deal but I just want to know what I'm dealing with.

 

[Snoonyb]

Thanks, I was going to suggest a closer image, however, is there any exposed shaft behind the handle?

Apply several treatments, to the rusted hex-drive, with PB-Blaster.

 

[vinny186]

Yes, there is shaft after the handle and when I unscrew the circular "cap" I can see the copper pipe. Anyone know the purpose of the cap?

 

[Steve123]

Don't plug weep holes in the bottom course of bricks.

 

[user 4883]

Yes, there is shaft after the handle and when I unscrew the circular "cap" I can see the copper pipe. Anyone know the purpose of the cap?

this is/was a frost free spigot with anti-siphon (as required by code for outdoor spigots), cap keeps debris out of the anti-siphon/backflow preventer while allowing for an air gap.
These screws are hard to get out without stripping the head. Once you do get it out, it's hard to find a replacement (I've been looking for about a month now).
If it were me, I'd replace the whole unit.
P.S.- no need to turn the water off to remove the handle screw.

 

[vinny186]

Thanks for all the info! Kok328, I was at HD today and pulled out a screw from a new spigot - it wasn't easy, and tried to match it in the special fastener section but had no luck. For some reason the other end of this spigot is behind a wall so I'm going to do what I can to just replace the handle.

 

[Eddie_T]

If you can get your screw out w/o breaking it find a nut that fits the threads. Then find a screw to fit the nut.

 

[BuzzLOL]

Usually there's a display that helps you identify what size and thread a screw, bolt, or nut is... just screw it in or on the selections...
I also recently saw the auto parts store has something similar for brake and fuel lines and their various nuts... about 20 different choices... I had no idea there were so many now...

 

[cdestuck]

Just get a tube of mortar caulking. Easy

 

[vinny186]

Yep, got the mortar caulk - didn't know they sold it that way lol