Water leaks, whether small or large, can cause significant damage to your home, from mould growth and damp walls to structural damage. Additionally, a continuous leak can increase your water bills, wasting both water and money. This article will walk you through some common causes of a leaking shower and give you practical tips on how to fix a leaking shower.
Signs That Your Shower Is Leaking
If you’re not 100% sure if your shower is leaking or not, here are several warning signs to look for:
- Water Pooling Around the Base of the Shower:
If you notice puddles of water forming around your shower tray, especially after use, it’s a clear indication that water is escaping from where it shouldn’t. - Water Stains on the Ceiling Below the Bathroom:
If the shower is located on an upper floor, leaks can manifest as water stains on the ceiling below. These stains may appear discoloured and grow larger over time. - Loose Tiles or Damp Walls Near the Shower:
Water that seeps behind tiles or into walls can loosen them over time. If tiles near your shower feel loose or you notice damp spots on nearby walls, it could signal a leak. - Mould Growth in Unexpected Areas:
Mould thrives in damp environments, so if you start seeing mould growth in areas outside your shower, like on walls, ceilings, or floors, this could be a sign of excess moisture due to a leak. - Higher Than Normal Water Bills:
A sudden increase in your water bill, without an obvious reason, might be due to a leak. Even a slow, unnoticed drip from your shower can significantly impact your water usage over time.
Common Causes of a Leaking Shower
Worn-out or Damaged Seals and Grout
Over time, the seals and grout around your shower tray and walls can deteriorate or crack, allowing water to escape. As water seeps through these gaps, it can cause damage to your bathroom’s flooring and walls, potentially leading to mould and rot if not fixed.
Failed Waterproofing
All Aussie showers are waterproofed before they are installed. Over time, this membrane can break down or fail, allowing water to seep underneath the tiles. Once water gets through, it can cause significant damage to the wood or plasterboard surrounding the shower. Failed waterproofing often leads to unseen water damage, which can compromise the structural integrity of your bathroom. This is one of the most common reasons for a leaking shower.
Loose or Damaged Shower Head
A poorly secured or damaged shower head can lead to a constant drip, even when the shower is turned off. This might seem like a minor issue, but over time, the amount of wasted water adds up and can increase your water bills.
Faulty Shower Valve
If your shower valve isn’t functioning correctly, it can cause leaks behind the wall. These leaks are particularly troublesome because they aren’t always immediately visible, potentially leading to hidden water damage.
Leaking Pipes
Older or damaged pipes that supply water to your shower can cause concealed leaks. These leaks may not be immediately visible but can cause significant structural damage to your bathroom and home over time. Detecting and fixing pipe leaks often requires a professional plumber.
Cracked Shower Tray
A cracked or damaged shower tray can lead to water seeping through to the floor below. Over time, these cracks can worsen, making the leak more severe. Regularly inspecting your shower tray for cracks and damage can help catch these issues early and prevent water damage to your bathroom flooring.
Fixing your a leaking shower
Resealing the Shower
To fix the silicone or caulking around the edges of the shower tray and walls from wearing out or cracking, remove the old sealant with a scraper and reapply a new layer of silicone or waterproof caulk around the shower tray, corners, and any visible gaps. Ensure that the area is dry before applying the new sealant and give it ample time to cure.
Failed Waterproofing
If the waterproofing in your shower has failed, there are two options:
- Rip Out and Replace Shower: This involves removing the entire shower area, installing a new waterproof membrane, and retiling.
- Shower Resealing: A more affordable solution, where a company reseals the shower without a full renovation. However, this is often a band aid solution to buy a little extra time but won’t be as long lasting as a full replacement.
Replacing the Showerhead
Start by tightening any loose connections. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, inspect the showerhead for wear and tear. Replacing a faulty shower head is straightforward and can stop further leaks. Check our step by step guide on How to change your shower head
Fixing the Shower Valve
A faulty shower valve, which controls water flow, can lead to hidden leaks behind the wall, which can cause serious damage if left untreated. Fixing or replacing a malfunctioning valve often requires professional assistance. If you suspect this might be the cause of your leaking shower, it’s best to call a plumber to assess the valve and carry out necessary repairs or replacements.
Repairing Cracks in the Shower Tray
For small cracks, you may be able to use a shower tray repair kit that contains waterproof resin to fill in and seal the crack. However, for larger or multiple cracks, the shower tray might need to be replaced entirely. In such cases, professional help is recommended to ensure the new tray is installed properly and to avoid further damage.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY solutions can tackle minor shower leaks, more complex problems—e.g. leaks behind walls, faulty shower valves, or damaged pipes—should always be handled by a licensed plumber. DCM Plumbing has the latest thermal imaging camera technology to help detect those hidden leaks and the skills and expertise to fix it.
DCM Plumbing ensures the problem is properly diagnosed and fixed at the source, preventing costly repairs down the line. If you notice persistent leaks, water stains, or increasing water bills, it’s important to act fast to avoid long-term damage. Our team can quickly identify and resolve the issue, giving you peace of mind. Contact us today!
