Types of water leaks in the bathtub.

Most bathtubs leaks can be categorized as one of three types:

• Drain leaks. The drain fitting in the bottom of the tub, or the surrounding drain and drain-trap piping, may loosen, causing dripping leaks, usually in the space beneath the bathtub. These can be quite serious since the water may be somewhat hidden and can cause serious damage and wood rot before it is even spotted. Because they are slow, gradual leaks, a considerable amount of damage can occur before such leaks are spotted.

• Faucet leaks. The various water supply components, including the faucet valve, the faucet spout, the showerhead, or the water supply connections in the wall, may develop leaks. A dripping faucet or showerhead leak is usually not serious since the water simply goes down the bathtub drain, but it can waste an enormous amount of water. These leaks are usually fairly easy for DIYers to repair themselves. But leaking water supply pipes inside the walls are much more serious since they can damage wood and ceiling surfaces below the tub.

• Grout and caulk leaks. One of the most common types of leaking occurs when the mortar grout lines or the caulking between a bathtub/shower and the walls develop cracks or gaps. Gradually, water from the showerhead or splashing water in the tub can infiltrate through the walls into stud cavities behind the wall surface. Mold, rot, and other problems can gradually take hold, and by the time you spot the damage, the needed repairs may involve very expensive renovation. Spotted early, though, correcting these problems and preventing future issues is quite easy.