Dealing with a leaking shower can be a hassle, especially if you need help fixing it.
However, repairing a leaking shower immediately is important to prevent any damage from water leak.
Fixing a leaking shower or finding the leak’s origin may be more challenging than you think. Further, a leaking shower can cost you time, money and stress.
Keep reading this article to discover the common causes of shower leaks and how to identify a shower leak. Further, we will discuss how to fix a shower leak, tips for preventing shower leaks and cost of repairing a leaking shower.
What is a leaking shower?
A leaking shower occurs when water escapes through the walls of the shower, either through cracks or other openings.
A variety of issues can cause this. These can be a faulty shower valve, a crack in the tile grout, a broken sealant, or a problem with the plumbing system. In any case, repairing the problem as soon as possible is important to avoid further damage.
What are the common causes of a shower leak?
1. Faulty shower valve
This is one of the most common reasons that could lead to a shower leak. The shower valve can get damaged over the years due to continuous use. This type of leak can be due to corroded parts in the valve, worn-out inner seals, or clogged hard water deposits.
2. Leaking shower head
Do you see water leaking from your shower head even if it is off? Then it could be a problem with the rubber washers that act as a seal between the shower head and hose. With time, these washers can get damaged, which leads to shower leaking.
3. Worn out Seals
Over time, the seals around the shower drain or faucet handles can wear down, letting water seep through and cause a leak.
4. Waterproofing failure
Waterproofing is crucial to prevent water from seeping through the floor and walls. If there’s a fault in waterproofing, shower water can seep through and damage the floor and walls.
5. Cracked tile grout
Over time, the grout or caulking that seals the spaces between tiles or between the shower and the wall can crack or wear away. This would let water seep through, which can damage the floor and the walls.
6. Problem with the plumbing system
Shower leaks can be caused by pipes, broken valves or fixtures, wrong installation, or using the wrong materials. These problems can cause water damage, mold, and other problems that can be expensive. It’s important to fix plumbing problems immediately to stop further damage and ensure your shower works well.
In some cases, a leaking shower can be caused by a combination of these issues. Repairing a leaking shower immediately is crucial so that your home doesn’t get damaged and you don’t have to pay for repairs.
How to identify a shower leak
- Water stains: Look for water or discolouration on the ceiling or walls near the shower. This can signify that the shower enclosure or plumbing is letting water out.
- Musty smell: If your bathroom smells musty or moldy, it could be a sign of water damage or mold growth, which a leaking shower could cause.
- Dripping or pooling water: This can be a clear sign of a leak if you see water dripping or pooling in or around the shower.
- Damaged grout or caulking: Look for cracks or damage in the grout or caulking around the tiles or shower enclosure. If the grout or caulk is broken, water can get through and cause a leak.
Tips for preventing shower leaks
- Check the shower every so often. Look for signs of wear and tear, or leaks in the shower enclosure, tiles, grout, caulking, and plumbing. Fix problems right away to keep them from getting worse.
- Install a shower liner between the shower curtain and the tile or wall to keep water from getting through.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: Don’t use harsh cleaners or chemicals on the tiles or shower enclosure, as these can damage the grout or caulking and cause leaks.
- Clean the shower head. It would help prevent mineral buildup, which can clog the holes and send water in the wrong direction.
- Use a professional plumber. When installing or fixing the shower or plumbing, use a professional plumber with the right experience and license. This would help to ensure the job is done right and prevent leaks in the future.
- Check the water pressure. Leaks can be caused by high water pressure, which puts extra stress on the pipes. Consider installing a pressure regulator to prevent excessive pressure.
Cost of repairing a leaking shower
In Australia, the cost of fixing a leaky shower can vary greatly depending on various factors. These are: how bad the leak is, how much damage it has caused, and where the leak is. Here are some rough estimates of how much repairing a leaking shower would cost:
It’s important to remember that these are just rough estimates. The real cost of fixing a leaking shower can vary greatly depending on the situation.
DIY or professional help for repairing a leaking shower
Once you have identified the cause of the leak, you can begin to repair it. In most cases, a simple repair is all that is needed. If you want to repair a leaking shower yourself, it is essential to ensure you have the right tools and knowledge.
In most cases, you can do a simple repair, like changing the shower head, without the help of a professional (depending on where you live). However, if the cause of the leak is more complex, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional plumber.
Conclusion
Dealing with a leaking shower can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. By following this guide, you can easily identify whether your shower is leaking and get help to repair it.
Make sure to inspect your shower on a regular basis. Replace any broken or worn-out parts, and repair any leaks as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Hiring a professional plumber to attend to a shower leak is always better.
If you are looking for skilled plumbers in your area, visit i4Tradies today.
We have listed various professional plumbers covering several location across Australia.
You can easily contact them and get quotations for your job. Then you can select the best offer that matches your budget. So what are you waiting for? Get on with repairing a leaking shower today.
