A leaking bathroom can quickly turn from a small annoyance into a serious household issue. Whether it’s the steady drip of a tap or damp spots forming on the ceiling below, even a minor leak can cause stress, waste water, and compromise your home’s structure. Fortunately, most bathroom leaks can be detected early and fixed efficiently with the right approach. This guide will help you understand the common signs, causes, and when it’s time to call SmartSealed’s experts for lasting bathroom leak repairs.
What causes bathroom leaks?
Bathroom leaks can be caused by a number of different factors including loose connections in pipes, broken or cracked pipes, poorly fitted drain connections, movement of walls and floors, and cracks in tiles. If not properly addressed bathroom leaks can lead to mould problems and structural damage or even attract the attention of local termites – damp areas are a favoured environment.
Here are some of the most common warning signs to watch for:
- Musty or mouldy smells that linger after cleaning
- Peeling or bubbling paint on walls and ceilings
- Damp or discoloured patches on ceilings below the bathroom
- Loose, cracked, or hollow-sounding tiles near the shower or tub
- Persistent puddles around the toilet or sink base
If left untreated, even a small leak can lead to serious consequences—such as mould growth, timber rot, and structural weakening. Over time, the moisture can spread to nearby rooms, increasing repair costs and creating health risks from airborne mould spores.
How can bathroom leaks be fixed?
There are a few different solutions to leaky bathrooms, and which is the most suitable can depend on the location and severity of the leak. Sealing is often the most convenient and cost effective treatment and can be highly effective if done professionally. We specialise in a number of different bathroom areas including shower and bathtub sealing, fixing leaking shower floors, sealing marble showers and vanities. We can also undertake spa sealing, grout replacement, wall and floor tiling and treating shower screens. Whatever is leaking in your bathroom chances are we can fix it and we pride ourselves on our friendly, professional service and high quality results.
Don’t assume that you need to spent vast amounts of time and money on renovations if you have a leaky bathroom. Call us and see if we can help find an easier and more cost effective solution to your bathroom leaks.
Common Causes of a Bathroom Leak
Leaking Taps and Fixtures
Worn washers, cracked cartridges, or loose fittings often cause leaking taps. Although a dripping tap may seem minor, it can waste hundreds of litres of water over time and indicate pressure or seal issues within the plumbing.
Shower and Bathtub Leaks
Damaged grout lines, deteriorated silicone, or gaps around the shower screen can let water seep behind tiles. This hidden moisture causes bubbling paint, swollen skirting boards, and long-term structural damage if not addressed.
Toilet Leaks
Leaks around the toilet base or cistern often stem from a worn pan collar, faulty valve, or damaged seal. These leaks can be silent, only becoming noticeable once flooring or wall damage appears.
Pipe and Drain Issues
Corroded or burst pipes behind walls, or blockages in drainage systems, can cause leaks that are hard to trace. Professional leak detection equipment is essential for identifying and resolving these quickly.
How to Fix a Bathroom Leaking Tap: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your bathroom tap is dripping, try this quick DIY fix:
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Remove the tap handle with a screwdriver.
- Unscrew the stem to access the washer or cartridge.
- Replace it with a matching new part.
- Reassemble and test the tap.
If the leak continues, internal damage may be present—best repaired by SmartSealed’s licensed technicians for a lasting seal.
When to Call in a Professional for Bathroom Leak Repair
Some leaks go beyond simple DIY solutions. Hidden pipe damage, waterproofing failures, or tile cracks require specialised tools and sealing methods. Attempting to fix these on your own can worsen the problem or trap moisture beneath the surface.
At SmartSealed, we use advanced leak detection and waterproofing systems to locate the exact source of the leak—often without removing tiles. Our team provides professional repairs for leaking showers, full bathroom resealing, and long-term waterproofing solutions that protect your home from future issues.
The SmartSealed Solution: Professional and Lasting Bathroom Leak Repairs
Don’t let a small leak turn into a major renovation. SmartSealed delivers fast, professional bathroom leak repairs designed to last. Our friendly specialists provide honest advice, durable sealing solutions, and complete peace of mind.
Contact us today to book your inspection and restore your bathroom with confidence.