Water leaking in the shower from behind the wall can be a major concern for homeowners. Whether due to cracked pipes, faulty faucets, or damaged valves, if left unaddressed, it can lead to costly repairs and even serious damage to the structure of your home.
Paying attention to the signs and identifying the source of the leak is critical to solving the issue efficiently. In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify a leak, common causes, and how to repair it yourself! Read on and discover more.
How To Tell If The Shower Is Leaking Behind The Wall? 4 Signs
The first step in solving a mysterious leak is determining if it is actually coming from behind the wall. Common signs of a hidden leak include water damage around the shower area, musty odors, low water pressure, and increased water bills. Check out the details below.
- Water damage around the shower area could show up as peeling paint, mold growth, or damp spots on the floor or ceiling below the shower.
- Musty odors from mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so a persistent smell near your shower could be a sign of a hidden leak.
- Low water pressure in your shower might indicate that water is leaking out somewhere along the plumbing system behind the wall.
- A sudden spike in your water bill can also point to a leak that you cannot visually detect.
Ignoring the problem or trying to fix it superficially can lead to more severe damage and more costly repairs. Sure, it will not hurt to remove mold from shower caulking but that is a band-aid on an open wound. If the problem persists, it is good to know why and how to fix it.
4 Common Causes Of Leaks Behind Shower Walls
Several factors could contribute to hidden leaks. Worn or damaged shower valves, shower handle cartridge leaks, faulty shower faucets, and cracks and holes in the pipes are some of the common culprits. Below is the explanation for these causes; read on!
1. Worn Or Damaged Shower Valve
A leaking shower valve behind the wall is one of the most common causes of water leakage in a shower. The valve controls the flow of water and regulates temperature. Over time, the internal seals and components of the valve can deteriorate, leading to this problem. When this happens, water can leak into the wall, causing damage to drywall and framing.
2. Shower Handle Cartridge Leak
The shower handle cartridge behind the wall is another possible cause. The cartridge inside the handle controls the flow of water. If it becomes damaged or worn out, it can allow water to escape behind the wall. This type of leak is often subtle and difficult to detect unless you pay close attention to your water usage or see visible signs of water damage.
3. Faulty Shower Faucet
Another common reason is a faulty faucet connection or internal component, so the shower faucet can be leaking behind the wall. If the faucet is not properly sealed, water may begin leaking through small gaps and into the wall. Like the valve, this issue can go unnoticed for a while unless the leak becomes significant.
4. Cracks Or Holes In The Pipes
If the pipes behind the shower wall are cracked or damaged, it could result in water leaking directly behind the wall. It is a more serious issue that may require professional intervention, as it can cause widespread damage if not repaired.
6 Steps To Repair A Leaking Shower Behind The Wall
Once you have identified that there is indeed a leak, it is time to address the issue. Depending on the cause, the repair process can vary in complexity. There are some plumbing basics that every homeowner should know. But here are the general steps involved in this case:
- Turn Off The Water Supply: Before attempting any repairs, make sure to turn off the water supply to the shower to avoid further water damage.
- Locate The Leak: Use tools like a stud finder or thermal camera to locate the exact source of the leak behind the wall.
- Remove The Wall Panels: In many cases, repairing a leak behind the wall will require you to remove the shower wall panels to access the plumbing system.
- Replace Or Repair The Damaged Parts: Once you have access to the plumbing, replace any damaged valves, cartridges, or faucet components. If the leak is caused by damaged pipes, you will need to replace or patch the affected sections.
- Reassemble The Shower: After replacing the faulty components, reassemble the shower wall and ensure everything is sealed correctly to prevent future leaks.
- Test The Shower: Turn the water back on and test the shower to ensure the leak has been fixed. Monitor for any signs of water damage as the area dries.
The average cost to repair a leak behind the shower wall goes from $150 to $1,000 or more for professional repairs. The price can vary depending on the severity of the leak and the complexity of the repair.
It is always a good idea to get multiple estimates from qualified plumbers to ensure you are getting the best price for the repair of water leaking in the shower from behind the wall. Do not wait until it is too late!
