Have you noticed water leaking from your shower drain? A leaking shower drain can lead to water damage, stains, and even mold growth if left untreated. Fortunately, with some basic tools and knowledge, you can fix a leaking shower drain on your own. In this guide, we’ll discuss the common causes of a leaking shower drain, and the steps you can take to repair or replace it.
What Causes a Leaking Shower Drain?
Before you start fixing your shower drain, it’s important to identify the cause of the leak. Here are the three most common causes of a leaking shower drain:
Worn Gasket
A gasket is a rubber ring that creates a watertight seal between the shower base and the drain flange. Over time, the gasket can wear out or become damaged, leading to a leak.
Loose Drain Flange
The drain flange is the visible part of the drain that’s screwed onto the shower base. If the screws holding the drain flange become loose, it can cause water to leak through the gap between the flange and the shower base.
Damaged Drain Body
The drain body is the part of the drain that connects to the drainpipe. If the drain body becomes damaged or cracked, it can cause water to leak through the cracks.
How to Fix a Leaking Shower Drain
Now that you’ve identified the cause of the leak, let’s look at the steps you can take to fix it.
Step 1: Access the Shower Drain
The first step is to access the shower drain from below. If you have a finished ceiling below your bathroom, you may need to create an access hole to reach the drain. You can do this with a saw or a drill.
Step 2: Remove the Drain Cover
Once you have access to the shower drain, remove the drain cover or strainer. This will give you a better view of the drain and help you identify the cause of the leak.
Step 3: Identify the Cause of the Leak
Inspect the drain to identify the cause of the leak. If the gasket is worn out or damaged, you can replace it with a new rubber gasket. If the drain flange is loose, you’ll need to tighten the screws. If the drain body is damaged, you may need to replace the entire drain assembly.
Repairing a Leaky Shower Drain without Removing Tile
If you have a tile shower, you may be able to repair a leaking shower drain without removing tiles. Here are the three methods you can use:
Using Putty to Seal the Leak
Plumber’s putty is a moldable substance that can create a watertight seal around the drain. To use plumber’s putty, remove the drain cover and apply a small amount of putty around the rim of the drain. Then, reinstall the drain cover.
Replacing the Drain Assembly
If the damaged part cannot be fixed with plumber’s putty or a new rubber gasket, you may need to replace the entire drain assembly. To do this, you’ll need to remove the old drain and install a new one.
Installing a Special Drain Assembly for Tile Showers
If you have a plastic shower base or a tile shower with a built-in shower pan, you may need a special drain assembly to fix a leaking shower drain. This type of drain assembly has sections that can be removed from the shower pan without disturbing the rest of the shower.
Replacing a Leaky Shower Drain from the Top
If you have access to the shower drain from above, you can replace a leaky shower drain without removing the shower base or tiles. Here are the steps you can take:
Step 1: Remove the Old Drain
To remove the old drain, unscrew the drain cover and remove the screw holding the drain in place. Then, use pliers or a wrench to loosen the drain flange and remove it.
Step 2: Install the New Gasket
Place a new rubber gasket over the drainpipe. The gasket should sit flat against the shower base.
Step 3: Install the New Drain
Insert the new drain into the drainpipe and press it down until it’s level with the shower base. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screw and secure the new drain in place.
Hiring a Plumber to Fix a Leaking Shower Drain
If you’re not comfortable fixing a leaking shower drain on your own, you can always hire a professional plumber to do it for you. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Cost of Hiring a Plumber
The cost of hiring a plumber to fix a leaking shower drain can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the plumber’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for this type of repair.
What to Expect from a Plumber
When you hire a plumber to fix a leaking shower drain, they will first inspect the drain to identify the cause of the leak. Then, they will recommend the best course of action and give you an estimate for the repair cost.
When to Call a Professional
If you have a leaky shower drain that keeps coming back, or if you suspect there may be water damage in your walls or floors, you should call a professional plumber immediately. They can help you identify the source of the leak and prevent further damage to your home. In conclusion, fixing a leaking shower drain is a DIY task that can save you money and prevent water damage to your home. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid any potential damage.
Q: How do I know if my shower drain is leaking?
A: If you notice water pooling around your shower drain or a musty smell coming from your bathroom, it’s likely that your shower drain is leaking.
Q: What are some common causes of a leaking shower drain?
A: A few common causes of a leaking shower drain include a faulty drain assembly, a cracked shower pan, or an old drain flange that needs to be replaced.
Q: Do I need to hire a professional plumber to fix a shower drain leak?
A: Not necessarily. If you’re handy with basic home improvement tasks and have the necessary tools, it is possible for a homeowner to fix a leaking shower drain on their own.
Q: What tools do I need to fix a shower drain leak?
A: You will likely need a hacksaw, needle-nose pliers, a valve, and an o-ring. These can be found at your local hardware store.
Q: Can I just replace the drain cover to fix a leaking shower drain?
A: No, replacing the drain cover will not fix a leaking shower drain. You’ll need to determine the cause of the leak and address that issue directly.
Q: How do I remove the old drain assembly?
A: Use a hacksaw blade to cut open the existing drainpipe and remove any debris. Then, use needle-nose pliers to pry loose the old drain flange.
Q: Do I need to remove the shower pan to fix a leaking shower drain?
A: Depending on the cause of the leak, it may be necessary to remove sections of the shower pan to access the drain assembly and fix the problem.
Q: How do I install a new drain assembly?
A: First, remove the old drain gasket and clean the drain body. Then, using a special drain assembly and valve, install the new drain gasket and hardware for a tight seal.
Q: What should I do if I can’t fix the shower drain leak myself?
A: If you’re not comfortable attempting the repair yourself or if the leak persists after you’ve made the necessary repairs, it’s best to call a professional plumber to stop the leak.
Q: Can leaks in fiberglass shower pans be repaired?
A: Yes, small cracks or leaks in fiberglass shower pans can be repaired using a sealant recommended by the manufacturer.