Quick answer
A leaking shower tray may be caused by failed seals, a loose waste connection, movement in the tray or a leak in hidden pipework. Stop using the shower until you know where water is escaping, especially if it is reaching a ceiling below.
Work out when the leak occurs
Water appearing around a shower does not always mean the tray itself is cracked. It can escape through worn silicone, a damaged grout line, a faulty waste or a supply pipe. Note whether dampness appears only during showering, when water drains away, or even when the shower is not being used. This can help separate a splash or seal problem from a pipe leak.
Check the ceiling below, adjoining walls and accessible cupboard spaces for fresh dampness. Do not remove tiles or panels just to investigate if doing so could expose electrical wiring or cause further damage. If water is near a light fitting, keep clear and isolate the affected circuit at the consumer unit if safe.
Limit further damage
- 1Stop using the shower while the leak is active. Dry the tray edge and surrounding floor, and move belongings away from wet areas.
- 2If water is escaping from a visible shower hose or fitting, turn off the shower controls. For an ongoing pipe leak, use the relevant isolation valve or household stopcock if safe.
- 3Photograph the damp area and note when it appears. If you rent, tell the landlord or agent promptly. Check with your insurer about evidence and next steps before authorising any non-urgent removal work.
- 4Avoid covering damp with fresh silicone before the source is found. A surface bead may hide a continuing leak rather than repair it.
Common causes and proper repair
- Silicone sealant can split or pull away where the tray meets the wall, particularly if the tray moves.
- A waste or trap connection can leak as water drains through it.
- A cracked tray, poor support or movement can open joints and allow water behind the enclosure.
- Concealed hot or cold pipework may leak independently of the tray and require tracing.
Getting the source confirmed
A lasting repair starts by identifying the leak rather than sealing whichever gap is easiest to reach. A plumber may test the waste and supply separately, inspect accessible connections and check for tray movement. TraceFix engineers in Birmingham and London can investigate shower leaks and explain whether the issue is with seals, waste or hidden pipework.
When to call a plumber
- Water is reaching a ceiling, wall cavity or room below.
- The tray moves, is cracked, or the leak returns after resealing.
- The leak continues when the shower is not in use.
- Water is near electrical fittings or you cannot isolate the supply safely.