I've got an upstairs leak emitting from both bathrooms whenever the tubs are used... and seemingly when the toilets are used, also (if that's possible?). I'm also concerned about some loud popping noises that seem to be coming from the waste pipes... and sometimes a 'howling' noise... this could all be connected, but I'm not certain. The leaks are settling between the ceiling drywall boards, as shown in this photo.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v301/Gman1/HPIM1361.jpg

My question precisely is... how do I approach this without cutting four or five large holes in my dining room ceiling? Where should I begin so as to maintain minimumal damage that'll inevitably need repairing and what possible culprits can I eliminate so as to maintain minimal invasiveness? Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

- Drip drip drip...

I've got an upstairs leak emitting from both bathrooms whenever the tubs are used... and seemingly when the toilets are used, also (if that's possible?). I'm also concerned about some loud popping noises that seem to be coming from the waste pipes... and sometimes a 'howling' noise... this could all be connected, but I'm not certain. The leaks are settling between the ceiling drywall boards, as shown in this photo.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v301/Gman1/HPIM1361.jpg

My question precisely is... how do I approach this without cutting four or five large holes in my dining room ceiling? Where should I begin so as to maintain minimumal damage that'll inevitably need repairing and what possible culprits can I eliminate so as to maintain minimal invasiveness? Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

- Drip drip drip...
Do not cut the ceiling. Does your toilet rock? A moving toilet can impair the wax seal. Look for water behind the toilet on the floor. I wish I had more info. You may have a leak on the piping system, but exhaust everything else before you cut that ceiling

Do you mean the leaks come when showering? Block the tub drain with a plug or rag and leave the tub filled with water overnight. If if leaks, it is coming from around the tub drain. Come back for instruction on how to fix. If no leak, direct the shower at the walls with the tub drain blocked. If it leaks then, the wall needs repair. Check the caulk between the tile and tub and the grout line in the corners. If neither of these give a leak, check what happens when water goes down the drain. If it leaks then, you need to open the ceiling.