Leaking Shower

5 Ways to Fix a Leaking Shower

Guide to Fixing a Leaking Shower

Leaks of any kind need to be nipped in the bud, because – if left – they can cause serious damage to your home. With a leaking shower, it’s not always the case that you need a professional plumber to solve the problem if you catch it early.

We tend to associate leaks with dripping water, but there are other signs to watch out for:

  • A bathroom that smells ‘earthy’ is an indication of a concealed leak.
  • Dislodged tiles are a clear sign of water leakage.
  • Water stains on the wall or floor shouldn’t be ignored.
  • Mould, or mildew growth in your bathroom needs attention.

The first step in dealing with a leaking shower is to work out what’s causing the leak. The second step is to work out whether you can fix it, or if it’s a job for a plumber. In this blog the Simply Plumbing team offers a guide to dealing with your leaking shower effectively.

1. Fixing a Leaking Showerhead

A leaking showerhead can be dealt with quite easily. Usually, the problem is a build-up of limescale – which is a particular problem for a hard water county like Bedfordshire. To solve this issue, simply detach the showerhead and spray it with a limescale remover. You’ll need to leave it for 5-10 minutes and then scrub the shower nozzles. Rinse the head thoroughly and reconnect it.

 

2. Mixer Tap Problems

If you’ve cleared limescale from your showerhead, but it’s still dripping when the shower is off, the problem could be the mixer tap (if you have one). It may be that new seals are required, or a new flow cartridge.

If you’re an experienced DIYer you’ll be able to check the seal in your mixer tap. You’ll need to turn of the water supply (hot and cold), drain the water in the line, and remove the mixer spout. If the rubber seal in the neck of the mixer looks worn, replace it. If the shower head continues to drip – call a plumber.

 

3. Leaking Shower Hose

Shower hoses are subject to daily wear and tear, so a leaky shower hose is almost inevitable. Thankfully, they’re easy to change and doing so will improve the look and performance of your shower:

  • Step 1. Unscrew the showerhead from the hose. You’ll see a hose washer; keep it as it can be re-used.
  • Step 2. Unscrew the hose from the shower outlet. Remove the washer and keep hold of it.
  • Step 3. Attach the new hose, putting the two rubber washers in place. Do not screw the hose too tightly.
  • Step 4. Test the water flow. If there are any drips, you may need to tighten the fitting slightly.

4. Shower Supply Pipes

If your shower supply pipes are damaged, or were poorly installed, the pressure that provides us with a smooth water flow, will cause leakage instead. It is possible to check if this is the cause of your leak by turning off your water supply for a couple of hours. Take a water meter reading at the beginning of the period, and at the end. If it has moved this is a clear sign of a leak in the supply pipes.

 

If you need supply pipes repairs, you will need to call in a professional plumber.

 

5. Cracked Grouting

The grouting between your bathroom tiles keeps the surface waterproof. As it wears, though, grouting can crack, allowing water to seep behind the tiles. In order to solve this problem, the worn grouting needs to be removed and replaced. A layer of sealer will further protect walls and floors from shower water.

 

The same kind of problem can occur with the sealant around your shower tray. If it is looking worn, use a sharp knife to peel away the existing sealant and replace it.

About Simply Plumbing

Simply Plumbing provides a comprehensive range of local plumbing services in Luton and the South Bedfordshire region. We’re an established, independent plumbing business with a professional team who take pride in the high standard of their work. Whether you’re looking for help with a leaking shower, newbathroom fittings, or a shower replacement, just call us and we’ll respond straight away.

If you have a leaking shower, Simply Plumbing can fix it for you. Call us today for a prompt 24/7 solution – 01582 250030

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