Bathtub Drain Leaking - Home Bathtub

Bathtub Drain Leaking: Causes and Fixes

A leaky bathtub drain is a common problem that can lead to water damage and mold growth. If you're dealing with a bathtub drain leak, don't panic. There are a few things you can do to diagnose the problem and fix it yourself.

Causes of a Leaky Bathtub Drain

There are a few common causes of a leaky bathtub drain: * Worn-out washers: The washers in your bathtub drain help to create a seal that prevents water from leaking. Over time, these washers can wear out and cause leaks. * Damaged drainpipe: The drainpipe that carries water from your bathtub to the sewer can become damaged over time. This can lead to leaks in the drainpipe, which can then cause water to leak out of the bathtub drain. * Loose drain strainer: The drain strainer is the metal or plastic cover that sits over the drain hole. If the drain strainer is loose, it can allow water to leak out of the bathtub drain. * Cracked bathtub: A cracked bathtub can also cause leaks in the bathtub drain. This is because the crack can allow water to seep into the bathtub's subfloor, which can then cause water to leak out of the bathtub drain.

How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Drain

If you're able to identify the cause of the leaky bathtub drain, you can often fix it yourself with a few simple tools and materials. * Replace worn-out washers: To replace worn-out washers, simply unscrew the drain strainer and remove the old washers. Then, insert the new washers and screw the drain strainer back in place. * Repair a damaged drainpipe: If the drainpipe is damaged, you can repair it with a drainpipe repair kit. These kits typically include a rubber boot that you can use to seal the leak. * Tighten a loose drain strainer: If the drain strainer is loose, you can tighten it with a screwdriver. Simply turn the screwdriver clockwise until the drain strainer is snug. * Seal a cracked bathtub: If the bathtub is cracked, you can seal it with a bathtub repair kit. These kits typically include a fiberglass patch that you can use to cover the crack.

When to Call a Plumber

If you're not able to identify the cause of the leaky bathtub drain or if you're not comfortable fixing it yourself, you should call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and fix it quickly and easily.

Preventing Bathtub Drain Leaks

There are a few things you can do to prevent bathtub drain leaks: * Clean the bathtub drain regularly: Hair and soap scum can build up in the bathtub drain and cause leaks. To prevent this, clean the bathtub drain regularly with a drain cleaner. * Don't put heavy objects in the bathtub: Putting heavy objects in the bathtub can put stress on the drainpipe and cause it to leak. Avoid putting heavy objects, such as buckets or furniture, in the bathtub. * Have the bathtub inspected regularly: A plumber can inspect your bathtub for leaks and other problems. Having the bathtub inspected regularly can help you to catch problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious. By following these tips, you can help to prevent bathtub drain leaks and keep your bathroom dry and safe.