If you step out of the shower and instead of a dry bath mat, you step into a puddle of water, your shower door could be leaking. Or maybe you find yourself placing a towel near the edge of the shower every time you use it, just in case water escapes.
Some signs of a shower leak are more subtle. You might notice peeling paint, a soft or discolored floor, or a musty smell. These can all be signs that water is getting where it shouldn’t.
What problems can a shower leak cause?
A small bathroom leak can create a much bigger problem behind the scenes.
You might wipe up the water you can see and go about your day, but moisture that gets underneath flooring or into the subfloor can cause damage over time. Persistent moisture can also contribute to mold and other problems.
If you have an upstairs bathroom and notice a wet or stained ceiling below it, that’s a sign that water is getting through somewhere and it’s time to have the problem checked by a professional.
Why would my shower door be leaking?
The first thing to check is that your showerhead isn’t pointed toward the door seam. Sometimes it’s as simple as changing the angle. If you change it and water is still getting out, adding a fixed glass panel might be the best solution.
Worn or missing door sweeps or seals can also cause your shower door to leak. Over time, the seals can break down from abrasive cleaners, hard water and just general use of the shower.
If you notice the caulk around your shower frame is peeling, cracked or looks like there could be mold on it, this can absolutely allow water to get into places it should not.
Loose hardware or hinges that have shifted can create gaps, causing your shower door to not close properly. That misalignment could make for water escaping. It needs to be flush.
Even a bad install could be causing a mess. If the walls and curbs of your shower were not measured correctly, gaps might be showing up and water might be spilling out.
If your shower door is on a sliding track, check for debris stuck inside the track. The water should be draining back into the shower, not coming out, and even the slightest gap from the door not aligning with the track can make a big difference.
If you have a frameless door shower, there are intentional gaps between the glass panels. The seals need to be in working order so water isn’t getting out. With this specific design, there can be challenges if not properly installed or maintained.
Is my shower door leaking or is something else in my bathroom leaking?
It isn’t always the glass shower door that’s causing the problem.
Failing grout, a cracked tile, a plumbing connection or a leaking shower valve can also allow water to get where it shouldn’t. If you’re not sure where the water is coming from, it’s important to identify the source before assuming the shower door needs to be repaired or replaced.
How can I keep my shower door working properly?
A little maintenance can go a long way.
Check your sweeps and seals a few times a year and try to use cleaners that are non-abrasive. Central Pennsylvania water is also hard, and that alone can cause seals to break down faster than normal.
Should I repair or replace my shower door?
Many shower door leaks can be fixed by replacing a worn sweep, resealing the caulk or realigning a door. If your enclosure is in good shape otherwise, a repair is often all you need.
If your frame is corroded, the glass is scratched or cloudy or the leaks keep coming back, it may be time for a replacement.
A new custom glass shower door, measured precisely for your space and installed by an experienced team, can stop the leaks for good and give your bathroom a fresh, updated look. Not sure which way to go? The UPG team can take a look and give you an honest recommendation.
We offer monthly payment options through Hearth to help with your budget. Reach out anytime to discuss your project.