Leaks in the bathroom are always a cause for concern for homeowners. After all, no one wants to waste water or have a small leak turn into a major, costly issue. An undetected leak can do a lot of damage over time, and even over a short period if it’s serious enough. Once you know what to look for, you can attempt to identify the problem, make the necessary repairs, and resolve the situation quickly. Here are some tips on how to detect a leak, and how to handle the situation.
Detect a Leak
If you suspect that you have a leak in the bathroom, you’ll need to find the source and see if there’s any visible water damage. One way to locate a leak is by taking a dry cloth and run it along the pipes or water lines to see if any spots come up damp. If you do locate a spot that’s wet, try to tighten pipes and connections to see if that stops it. It could be a loose joint between pipes or water lines.
Leaks in the bathtub or shower stall can occur in several different spots. Check the caulking along the tub and the wall to ensure that it’s in good condition. You will need to fully remove old caulking completely before you can fill in any spots with gaps. This should be done every few years so that you maintain a tight and secure seal between the tub and the walls.
Remain Calm
Any time that you discover a potential problem with the fixtures or systems in your home, you’re likely to worry. It’s natural to be upset, but remaining calm is more helpful to you and your family. Take a deep breath, and remember that these things happen. Making repairs and dealing with these types of issues are a part of being a responsible homeowner.
Do your best to locate the source of the leak, shut off the water if necessary, and then determine if it seems like a repair that you can handle on your own. It could be something simple, or it could be something more serious. Once you’ve stopped the leaking by turning off the water, you can do a more thorough assessment and decide whether it warrants calling in a pro.
When to Call a Professional
It’s always best to contact an expert if the issue is serious. A skilled and experienced plumber will know how to find the source of the leak, and they’ll have both the equipment and the expertise to fix the leak for good. It may mean spending money on their services, but it’s well worth it to save you money and spare you the stress in the long run. Having a pro come in to do repairs is a great way to prevent future problems, as well.
You don’t want to simply patch up a leaky spot and then have to face the issue again in a few days or weeks. Getting it fixed properly the first time is the best option. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that a professional has solved the problem and prevented costly damage.
