Hey everyone! I have a slow leak coming from the bottom of the shower trap—it's just a drip every few hours, but I'm worried because it's dripping onto the ceiling below. The problem is that the line is made of lead, so replacing it would mean tearing up my shower floor, which I'd prefer to avoid for now. I'm hoping to get a full bathroom remodel done in a few years when finances allow. Does anyone have advice on how I can manage this leak temporarily? I know the long-term fix involves replacing the line, but right now I just want to buy some time until I can afford more extensive repairs.
3 Answers
Silicone tape could be a good option too! I haven’t seen your specific issue, so it’s a bit hard to say for sure, but many folks find it helpful for temporary fixes. You might give it a shot!
Honestly, a drip every few hours might not seem major, but since it's dripping directly onto the ceiling, it could cause problems over time. If you’ve got access to the trap, I also suggest using stretchy rubber tape or self-fusing silicone tape. It can hold up for a long time, but just know it’s not a permanent fix and won't pass inspection. Keeping a layer of electrical tape on top is a smart idea, too!
Have you thought about using plumbers putty? It’s pretty cheap and easy to work with. Just unscrew whatever you can, apply the putty to the threads and any sealing surfaces, then tighten it back up. I used it on my kitchen sink drain and it worked wonders, no leaks since then!
Thanks for the advice! I’ll check out that rubber tape and give it a try.