Could a Shower Head Cause a Leak in the Basement?

Shower Head Construction

• A shower head generally consists of a pivoting head connected to a pipe that is several inches long. The end of the pipe not attached to the head connects to the plumbing inside your wall, with a metal or plastic cap concealing the joint. If the pivoting head leaks, the water will end up inside the shower stall. However, if the shower head leaks behind the cap that covers its connection to your wall plumbing, water can enter your walls and make its way through floor joists and insulation into the basement.

Basement Leak Sources

• A leak in your basement ceiling near where there is a bathroom overhead doesn't necessarily indicate a shower head leak. More likely culprits are deteriorating caulking around the shower stall or tub, a loose toilet or sink joint or water from the bathroom floor that seeps between sheets of vinyl or individual floor tiles. Check all of the bathroom's plumbing for obvious leaks before focusing on the shower head.

Timing and Diagnosis

• Diagnosing a shower head leak based on water in your basement is even more difficult because of the time it takes for water to make into the basement. If your shower head is mounted to an exterior wall, it can get to the basement more quickly. The same is true for showers on the first floor. Checking the basement while someone is using the shower or directly afterwards will not necessarily indicate the source of the leak. Instead you'll need to physically inspect the shower head.

Repair Options

• If you suspect a leaking shower head is causing the leak in your basement, the first step is to disassemble the shower head using a pair of channel lock pliers. You may find that the shower head is loose or that the pipe directly inside the shower's wall has a visible split or rust. Replace any damaged pipes and reassemble the shower head, installing a new head assembly and caulk or tape to form a strong seal. If the leak persists, contact a plumber and be prepared to open your walls and basement ceiling to seek out the leak.