Drain Leak Behind Wall

In cases where a leak behind a wall isn t visible you may be able to detect the leak using your sense of smell.

Drain leak behind wall.

If there s a leaking pipe behind a wall you will most definitely spot some causes and changes around that area. Mold thrives in moist dark areas which are typically hidden behind walls or under flooring. Hidden water leaks behind walls can be especially dangerous because the water will get absorbed into flooring drywall and ceilings as well as wooden support beams and sheetrock. Musty smelling walls will often be accompanied by other signs of a leak e g discoloration.

Usually the most obvious sign of leaking pipe behind a wall is when you see a huge portion of water bursting through the wall. If a pipe springs a leak mold can begin to grow in the area. If your shower leaks behind wall you will see water stains on the drywall ceiling below the tub drain. Feel around the copper pipes for any wetness from recent use.

If that doesn t work replace the drain assembly. Look for signs of leaking. To be sure these stains were not from the bathtub drain run a little water in the tub and see if the drain is leaking. Tile leaks occur when water seeps through deteriorating grout or caulk and gets into the wall behind the tile figure a.

Then patch the wall sand prime and paint. Since water that leaks into walls never has a chance to dry out the walls will begin to give off a humid musty odor. Identify the walls that contain water pipes by looking where pipes go up from the basement and by checking where pipes enter the walls in bathrooms and in the kitchen. If you don t have access beneath the drain cut a hole in the ceiling below or replace the drain assembly with a wingtite drain.

They would cut the wall open determine the exact location of the leak and replace the damaged sections. But there are usually some subtle signs to help you identify these types of leaks including. In plumbing in a wall generally you ll be looking for a leak above the area where you have noticed the water but the water you ve found may have traveled far from the leak. If you see mold in unusual places where water does not usually accumulate such.