Recognizing the signs of a leaking shower is crucial to prevent further damage. Several common indicators include:

1. Water Marks on the Ceiling Below the Bathroom:
   • Discovering water marks or stains on the ceiling beneath your bathroom can be a strong indication of a leaking shower.
   • When water seeps through the shower floor or walls, it can penetrate the ceiling, leaving visible marks.
2. Wet Carpet Outside the Bathroom:
   • If you frequently find a damp or wet carpet just outside the bathroom, it may suggest a leaking shower.
   • Water escaping from the shower area can soak into the surrounding carpet, leading to moisture accumulation.
3. Wood Rot in Floorboards or Skirting:
   • The presence of wood rot in floorboards or skirting around the bathroom can signify a leaking shower.
   • When water leaks through the shower, it can infiltrate the flooring or skirting, causing the wood to deteriorate.
4. Mould on Adjoining Walls:
   • The growth of mould on the walls adjoining the shower area is a common consequence of a leaking shower.
   • Excessive moisture resulting from a leak can create an ideal environment for mould to thrive.

Various factors can contribute to a leaking shower, such as:

1. Leaking Pipework:
   • Faulty or damaged pipework within the shower system can be a leading cause of leaks.
   • Identifying and repairing any leaks in the pipes is essential to prevent further water escape.
2. Inadequate Installation of Puddle Waste or Shower Waste:
   • If a puddle waste, which helps drain excess water, hasn’t been correctly installed on the shower waste, it can lead to leaks.
   • Deteriorated grout lines or silicone seals can also compromise the water seal, allowing leakage.”
3. Compromised or Incorrectly Installed Waterproofing:
   • One of the most common causes of a leaking shower is compromised or improperly installed waterproofing.
   • Poor waterproofing practices can result in water penetrating the shower walls or floor, causing leaks.

To rectify a leaking shower, a comprehensive process is typically undertaken, including:

1. Removal of Existing Tiling, Wall Cladding, and Shower Base:
   • To access the underlying issues, the existing tiles, wall cladding, and shower base are carefully removed.
   • This step allows for a thorough examination of the affected areas and prepares the surface for repairs.
2. Rectification of Pipework Leaks:
   
   • Any leaks detected in the shower’s pipework are addressed and repaired to eliminate water escape points.
   • Repairing or replacing damaged pipes is essential to restore the integrity of the plumbing system.
3. Sheeting, Waterproofing, and Tiling the Shower Area:
   • After the necessary repairs, the shower area is prepared for renovation.
   • This involves installing new waterproofing membranes, ensuring a watertight seal, and then tiling the shower area.
4. Obtaining a Waterproofing Certification:
   • In some cases, obtaining a Waterproofing Certification is necessary to comply with regulations.
   • Achieving this certification may require tying the new waterproofing into the existing system, which may involve further removal of wall tiles or bathroom flooring. The feasibility of this approach is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

In instances where the original tiles are no longer available, a useful hack is to consider using terrazzo-style floor tiles in the shower area.

• Terrazzo tiles, with their flecks of alternating colors, can harmonize with the existing bathroom decor, providing a cohesive look.

At TGPS, we understand the urgency of rectifying a leaking shower to prevent further damage. Our experienced team is equipped to handle every aspect of the repair process with meticulous care and attention to detail. Contact us today to see how we can help.