Before You Renovate: Check These 5 Common Shower Problems

1. Leaks Behind the Wall

Leaks can be sneaky. Water might drip from behind the shower wall without you even noticing. You won’t see a puddle, but over time, that water can rot the wood, cause mold, and damage your home.

Sometimes, the only sign is a water stain on the ceiling or wall in another room. That’s why it’s smart to have a plumbing service check things out before tearing out old tile or replacing your shower.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing often finds hidden leaks during inspections of old showers. They can ensure your pipes are sealed tightly before you start remodeling.

2. Low Water Pressure

If your shower feels more like a slow drizzle than a refreshing rinse, you might have a water pressure issue. This can occur due to a clogged pipe, hard water buildup, or old plumbing that has simply worn out over time.

Before installing a new rain showerhead, ensure the water pressure is strong enough to handle it. A shower repair job may be needed to clean or replace the pipes.

If you’ve already noticed weak pressure, don’t ignore it. Let a plumber take a look so your renovation works like it should.

3. Old or Rusty Pipes

Older homes often have galvanized steel pipes. These can rust from the inside out. Over time, that rust can flake off and clog your shower or cause discoloration in your water.

During a remodel, you have the perfect chance to replace those old pipes. This is not a job you want to skip or put off until later.

A plumbing service can inspect the pipes before you begin. If you do need a shower repair, it's better to get it done before the walls are closed back up. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has the experience to help homeowners replace outdated plumbing the right way.

4. Poor Drainage

Have you ever stood in the shower and felt the water rise around your ankles? That’s usually a sign of a drainage problem. Hair, soap scum, or even small objects can become lodged in the drain, slowing the flow.

But sometimes it’s not just a clog. The drain pipe may be the wrong size or installed at the incorrect angle, which can cause long-term problems.

If you're remodeling, it’s a great time to fix any drainage issues. Ask a plumber to check the drain slope and pipe size. Getting this right can save you from needing a future shower repair.

5. Bad Shower Valve

The shower valve controls the mix of hot and cold water. If your water suddenly becomes ice cold or extremely hot, your valve is likely malfunctioning.

This part is usually hidden behind the wall. So if it needs replacing, the wall will have to be opened. That’s why it’s smart to inspect it during a renovation instead of waiting for it to break later.

Replacing a faulty valve requires specialized skills, and a professional plumbing service should handle the task. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can test the valve and replace it with a better one that works with your new fixtures.

Final Checks Before You Start

Before any demolition begins, take the time to have a full plumbing inspection. Many homeowners rush into renovations and overlook significant red flags hidden behind the walls. You can save time and money by checking everything first.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help with a complete inspection, offering peace of mind that your new bathroom won’t just look good, but work well too. When it comes to anything involving pipes or water, trust a professional plumber to handle the job safely and effectively.

Don’t Start Without a Plan: Call a Pro First

Renovations can be exciting, but skipping over hidden shower issues could cost you more in the long run. Whether it’s a leak, a faulty valve, or old piping, you’ll want everything to work smoothly before the tile goes up.

If you're planning a remodel, take this as your sign to call a trusted plumbing service. Let a professional check your plumbing from top to bottom so you can move forward with confidence.

Your shower deserves more than just a surface upgrade. Let a skilled team like Mr. Rooter Plumbing help you identify and resolve issues now, so you can enjoy your new space worry-free later.

Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive shower inspection or consultation with a professional plumber. You'll thank yourself when the water runs clear, drains fast, and stays leak-free for years to come.