Why the Shower Pan Can Be a Source of Water Damage
6/1/2020 (Permalink)
Anywhere a home has plumbing fixtures and pipes, there is a danger of a leak. Pipes get old and break, fittings loosen and connections fail. With all of its water lines, a bathroom will occasionally become a trouble spot and a bathtub leak is something to keep an eye on. This particular problem can be especially harmful because the escaping water is not always visible right away, allowing water time to rot the wood subfloor and to increase the humidity in the bathroom. In these conditions, mold can become a problem since it grows well in damp, warm conditions. The key is to stop the water leak and thoroughly dry out the area. A local water remediation franchise in East Dundee, IL, can treat the problem, remove mold, and restore water damage.
Addressing a Shower Pan Leak
Shower pan leaks are seen as commonly as bathtub leaks. They can be just as difficult to locate — the water leaks from the bottom of the shower and is not always readily apparent. You should look for the following signs of a water leak around your shower:
- The growth of mold in the bathroom
- The presence of water stains around the shower or in the ceiling below
- Missing grout
- Cracks in the shower
- A loose drain
If your shower is old, this area is more likely to spring a leak. In this case, it is a good idea to periodically inspect the area around the shower for moisture.
Addressing Water Damage
In the event of a shower or bathtub leak, you want to limit the level of water damage to your home. The best way to do this is by discovering the leak quickly and taking quick action. A slow, gradual leak has the potential to break down materials that are expensive to fix or replace. Mold growth can also become a concern and could require the services of trained removal technicians. Water leaks should be addressed in a timely manner.