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    ErinWatson's Avatar
    ErinWatson Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Apr 17, 2008, 06:29 AM
    Determining location of a tub shower leak
    Good morning- let me preface with the fact that I am pretty clueless about plumbing... so be nice to me! Hopefully someone can help.

    Have a tub shower that is basically the tub and a plastic piece around the walls. When we first moved in, it was not even caulked between the wall piece and the tub, which we have now done.

    However, we have now discovered a leak somewhere around the tub- we don't believe it is through the caulking as it is leaking out below the tub into a closet immediately behind. Meanwhile, it is also leaking from both sides onto baseboards.

    What's the best way to test where the leak might be coming from? Thanks!
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
    		  
    #2

    Apr 17, 2008, 06:36 AM
    Erin:

    First thing to do is to remove the handle (assuming single handle tub/shower valve here) and the chrome face plate to the tub/shower valve. Also want to pull the chrome ring around the chrome shower arm forward.

    After plate and handle/shower arm chrome ring are removed/slipped forward, turn on the water and with a flashlight look around to see if can see anything.

    You want to fluctuate from tub to shower a number of times... looking for obvious stuff...

    After that, if cannot see anything you may need to open up an access hole at a closet or area behind the tub/shower valve (access panels available at home supply store if in closet).

    But first, really investigate the area outside shower, at seams and behind valve cover first... get back to us let us know what you find... Mark

    .
    speedball1's Avatar
    speedball1 Posts: 29,301, Reputation: 1939
    Eternal Plumber
    		  
    #3

    Apr 17, 2008, 06:43 AM
    Look behind the front of the tub. There should be a access panel there to service the trap and waste assembly. If there isn't one then cut one in. good luck, Tom
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
    		  
    #4

    Apr 17, 2008, 08:50 AM
    Does this leak look more active or fresh just after a bath or shower or is it wet all of the time and never changes? Fill your tub to the brim and let is drain all at once, did that make the leak more active? Back to you, aren't we all being nice?
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