Test The Shower Door
Simply splash water all around the door. When you see water seeping out, start the repair by caulking shower door frames on the inside. The splash leak is just water getting past shower doors or shower curtains. This is the most common bathroom leak type possible.
The problem with the water splash leaks is that most people believe they are not serious. The truth is that such leaks end up causing major damage since water goes wherever it can. If it reaches the area under the shower, tub or flooring, costly repairs are needed.
If water keeps splashing, vinyl tiles or flooring loosen. Plywood subfloors delaminate and can rot. This requires a highly expensive, huge replacement project.
Signs There Are Problems
- Flaking or peeling paint.
- Wood finish that is chalky-looking close to your shower.
- Loose tiles or curling vinyl flooring close to your tub.
- Mold spots on floors or walls close to the shower or tub.
- Water stains appearing on ceilings.
- When a curtain is used, standing water might be present on the bathroom floor after showering.
How To Locate Shower/Tub Leak Source
- When there is a shower door installed, splash water around, as mentioned above. The leaks normally appear after around 5 minutes.
- Look for caulk gaps in the area where tubs or showers meet flooring.
- When doors have rubber door sweeps or gaskets, look for the presence of gaps.
How Can You Fix These Leaks?
- Sliding doors have to properly overlap when they are closed. Inner doors should be closer to the faucet.
- When you use shower curtains, completely close them as you take a shower. If possible, add splash guards.
- When frames are leaking, seal them with caulk. Make sure that caulk is forced into gaps and that you cover the entire area of the shower. Also, do wipe away excess caulk as soon as possible. Wait for the caulk to dry and then look for leaks again.
- When old caulk around floors have gaps, crape everything out and run new beads.
- Replace worn door sweeps or gaskets. The old one can be taken to the plumbing supply store or a local home center in order to find matching replacements.
If you tried to fix the leak and you did not manage to, simply contact an experienced plumber. He/she can easily get the job done right.