I've been struggling with persistent water damage at the bottom of the wall next to my shower door, and I've already attempted repairs. After cutting out the damaged drywall, I replaced it with greenboard and used mold-resistant mud and paint. I've also completely regrouted the lower tile joints and reapplied silicone on the frame and seams. There's no plumbing behind this wall, so it isn't a leak in the pipes. I've noticed that the damage only appears when the shower is in use, and everything dries up if the shower isn't used for a while. The wall is part of a pocket door cavity, so I can't access it from the back side. I've looked inside and didn't see anything alarming. I'm stumped as to why this leak keeps coming back. Could there be an issue with the shower pan or curb? What should I do next since I can't open the wall?
3 Answers
It sounds like there might be a gap in the weather seal at the bottom corner of your shower door. Water could be running down the glass and wicking into the wall over time. Have you tried caulking that area? It might help stop the water from getting to the wall.
Just to clarify, is your shower door a movable one or a stationary piece of glass? We had a similar issue; it turned out the gasket was the wrong size and caused water to drip out the corner instead of directing it properly. I initially thought the leak was from inside the wall, but it ended up being bone dry inside!
Mine is right next to a stationary piece of glass. Thanks for the info, I'll check the gasket!
It sounds like moisture is wicking from somewhere inside. Is your grout properly sealed? Also, is there any chance that the moisture damage is linked to issues with an exterior wall or roof? Plus, check if your shower curb is level or if it slopes down toward that corner, which could lead to pooling water.
I noticed a small gap too, but I sealed it completely with silicone.