The shower/bathtub enclosure is the most common area of water leaks inside the home. It can be a frustrating exercise to detect the source of the leak when the problem is first detected. Chances are that you are not dealing with a plumbing leak. The problem could be due to a leaky faucet or shower head, for example. In all likelihood, the leak can be traced to a shower/tub enclosure leak.
The following items must be maintained and in good condition at all times:
-
- Sealant around soap dishes and other through-wall penetrations
-
- Sealant around tub spout and tub/shower faucet assembly.
-
- Sealant around joint of wall and bathtub/shower stall floor.
-
- Sealant at all intersecting joints between all wall corners and other intersecting joints.
-
- Sealant between walls, tub and shower door assembly.
-
- Sealant or mastic joint around the tub or shower drain.
-
- Grout between ceramic/marble tiles on walls and shower floors.
-
- Observe proper installation and usage of shower door assembly.
-
- Installation and usage of shower curtain assembly.
-
- Corner guards or drip guards are recommended to be installed at outside corner of both ends of the bathtub.
-
- Repair/replace ceramic tiled step/threshold at opening of shower enclosure.
-
- Review periodically for any loose, dislodged tiles or accessories.
Copyright (2003) CBCG – Reprinted with permission