The most common cause of leaking showers is building movement, causing the weakening and cracking of grout, and damaging the waterproof membrane under the tiles. This usually occurs between the floor and wall joints of the shower recess.
A small hole for an inspection camera in the untile section or the wall behind the shower will tell if the pipe for the shower is leaking.
Leaking Water Pipe—Broken or loose pipes are a leading cause of shower leaks. If access is possible, take a look at the water valve behind the walls. Are the connecting pipes damaged?
Shower tiles can cause leaks if the shower was not constructed properly. There is supposed to be a rubber pan under the tile to prevent leakage in the event water gets behind the tile. If the shower pan is installed correctly, any water that gets behind the tiles will go to the drain.
One of the tell-tale signs of a water leak coming from a shower valve behind the wall is water stains. If you have an upstairs bathroom, you may notice dried water stains on the ceiling below the shower. Most times shower valve leaks behind the wall are very slow.
Tile flooring is designed to handle water, but it's not completely waterproof. Over time, grout can wither away and cracks can form, creating the perfect entrance for those accidental spills to seep into. Water that gets under your tile can lead to all sorts of problems, including mold growth.
The plumber introduces a high-visibility colored dye in the system where they suspect a leak, then observes the flow and watches for the dye to leak from plumbing connections. If the leak is obscured, the dye test can lead the plumber to the source of the leak.
This usually occurs between the floor and wall joints of the shower recess. Up to 90% of showers built onto a stud wall will eventually leak because a gap will occur between the tiled wall and the shower recess floor.
The average cost to fix a shower leak behind the wall is between $200 and $1,000. This wide price range is because some leaks are easy to fix if you spot them early. Others may cause more damage and are in hard-to-access areas, leading to high costs to access the area and deal with any water damage.
If you have a minor leak, you can try fixing it yourself by using a sealant or replacing the showerhead. However, if the leak is significant or you are unsure of how to fix it, it's best to hire a professional plumber. They will ensure that the leak is fixed correctly and prevent further damage or safety hazards.
A clogged drain can cause water to pool at the base of your shower. If the seal around the drain is compromised, water may seep through and leak into the ceiling below.
Not only is a dripping shower head annoying, but it can also waste water and cause damage to your home. If the leak comes from your shower valve, water could get behind your bathroom walls, causing dry rot, mould, and structural issues.
Without using the showerhead, fill the shower up to the top of the shower floor pan. Use buckets, a hose, or a different water source. Now, wait for 15 to 20 minutes, then see if the leak appears. You might see water or watermarks on the ceiling below or when you look in the basement or crawl space.
The most common area where leaks will occur is in the areas where grout has been used to bind or seal the material chosen for the install. This issue is mostly caused by a building moving over time and this shift will generate cracks in the grout.
Check where the grout is cracked or missing, as this could be a sign that water is seeping through and causing damage. Bulging or warping of the tiles can be an indication that water has penetrated the surface and is causing the tiles to shift. Soft or spongy areas on the floor near the shower.
The Bathroom. Most water leaks are found in the bathroom, as all water supply lines eventually lead here. In fact, a leaking shower alone can waste more than 500 gallons of water annually! Flapper Leak: The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank.
Look for water stains, damp spots, or peeling paint on ceilings, walls, or floors. These signs may indicate a nearby leak, and by following the path of the water damage, you can narrow down the possible source. Examine Faucets and Fixtures: Leaky faucets and fixtures are common culprits of water leaks.
One of the most common causes of a leaking shower bases is cracked tile grout and damaged sealants. As seasons change, houses naturally expand and contract. Over time, the grout between your tiles will begin to suffer. In some cases, the use of cheaper sealants, such as silicon, are the source of the problem.
Shower Failure occurs in 75% of Tiled Showers..
Locating a water leak under a tiled floor requires careful observation and inspection. Look for signs such as damp or discoloured tiles, warping, or musty odours. If you suspect a leak, it's advisable to contact a professional plumber for a thorough assessment and accurate detection.