You would often initially notice a leaking shower drain as water damage on the wall or ceiling in the room below. This problem can occur due to a variety of reasons, with the most obvious being a crack in the drain that requires to be fixed to stop the leak. Here are the steps that you can take to repair a leaking shower drain:
1. Make Sure That The Leak Is Really Coming From The Drain.
To affirm that the leak is coming from the shower drain and not from a broken seal between the floor and the bathtub, you can use a funnel and try to pour a small amount of water directly down the drain. If you do not find any typical signs of leakage, then you can fill the tub to try and look for leaks again. By running these tests, you will be able to identify the source of the problem.
2. Make An Access Panel To The Drain.
Go to your bathroom and locate the pipes that are leading to the shower. The most common place that you will find them is under the flooring or above the ceiling of the room below the bathroom. Before you start cutting or disassembling anything, first place a metal pan or drop cloth on the floor to catch any water and spills that may pour or leak during the process. Then, cut a panel using a drywall saw in order to create access to the pipe. Carefully remove the piece in order for it to be placed back in the exact area after you complete repairing the shower drain. Depending on the design of your home, you might have to go through a closet or attic to be able to access the plumbing system.
3. Remove The Component That Is Causing The Leak.
Try to find the source of the leak on the piping system. Usually, it is indicated by dripping or discoloration of an area. Then, remove the part of the drain—the drain body, gasket or strainer body—using a pair of pliers and remove the strainer with a screwdriver.
4. Replace The Shower Drain.
Check the shower drain repair kit you have purchased for some instructions that will guide you in dismantling and reassembling this fixture. However, keep in mind that you only need to repair the part that is broken if all other pieces still fit together. Using a combination of old and new parts, reassemble the drain and make sure all components are securely in place.
5. Test The Drain And Then Replace The Drywall.
Test your shower drain by turning on the water in a small stream and then check the pipe downstairs to see if a leak still develops. If everything seems to be dry, patch the wall you cut using the drywall mud and mud knife, and then cut away and remove any piece of ceiling with watermark damage.
With these steps, you can say “good bye!” to a leaking shower drain and keep the areas near it intact and dry.