This week, we helped a Bournemouth customer who found they had a leaking shower tray and decided it was time for an upgrade. After they'd ordered a new tray and cubicle, they called us to handle the installation. We ensured everything was fitted perfectly, with proper seals to prevent future issues. The result? A watertight shower and one very satisfied customer!
A leaking shower tray is a common issue, and left unchecked it can do damage to your home. That's why we’re sharing our expert tips to help you identify, prevent, and resolve leaks before they become a costly problem.
Signs Your Shower Tray Might Be Leaking
Spotting the signs of a leaking shower tray early can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s what to look out for:
Water pooling outside the tray: If water isn’t staying where it should, there may be a problem with your tray or seals.
Discoloured grout or sealant: Yellowing or dark marks around the edges can indicate water is getting through.
Musty smells: A hidden leak often leads to damp areas that can cause unpleasant odours.
Stains or damp patches: Check the ceiling or walls below your bathroom for any signs of water damage.
Risks of a Leaking Shower Tray
Leaving a leaking shower tray unchecked can lead to a host of problems:
Structural damage: Water can seep into floors and walls, weakening their structure over time.
Mould and mildew: Damp conditions encourage mould growth, which can be harmful to your health.
Expensive repairs: The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more extensive the repairs are likely to be.
Tips for Preventing and Maintaining Shower Trays
Regular maintenance can help you avoid leaks and keep your shower tray in top condition:
Check the sealant regularly: Sealant can degrade over time (generally, silicone sealant around a shower tray or cubicle lasts 3 to 5 years under normal use). Inspect it for gaps or cracks and reapply as needed.
Use gentle cleaning products: Harsh chemicals can damage seals and cause leaks. Stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners.
Inspect for cracks: Even small cracks in the tray or tiles can let water through.
Ensure proper installation: A poorly installed shower tray can shift over time, leading to leaks.
How to Resolve a Leaking Shower Tray
If you have found a leak, it’s best to act quickly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Temporary Fixes: If the damage is minor, you might reapply sealant or grout as a short-term solution.
Call a Professional: For significant leaks or persistent issues, contact a reliable plumber (like us!) to assess and resolve the problem properly.
Consider Upgrades: If the tray or cubicle is damaged, replacing them - like we did for our Bournemouth customer - ensures a long-term fix.
Need Help with a Leaking Shower Tray?
If you’re worried about a leaking shower tray, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. We’re here to help with expert advice, repairs, and installations across Bournemouth, Poole and beyond.
For more info and reliable plumbing services, contact us today.
Call us on 01202 985368 or book online.
We're your friendly, local plumbers in Poole, expert plumber in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and most BH postcodes - always here to help you keep your home running efficiently.
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