Nothing can have quite as devastating an effect on the infrastructure of your home as an unnoticed water leak. For that reason, it's good to learn the warning signs that something may be going wrong. If you would like to protect yourself against expensive renovations and repairs, read on. This article will explain how to diagnose and correct two common sources of water leaks in the bathroom.

Shower Tiles

Tiled walls add a wealth of class and distinction to a shower. Yet they often present unanticipated dangers as well. You see, when the grout and/or caulk that keep your tiles in place begins to break down, water often seeps in behind the tiles. Over time, this can lead to loose tiles, wood rot, and even damage to the floor below the shower space.

The following are all important signs that you may have a tile leak on your hands:

• loose or cracked tiles
• persistent mildew and mold
• peeling paint on the other side of the wall
• ceiling stains on the floor below

Having noticed one of these signs, it's important you make a good close inspection of your grout work. Look for any areas where mold is actively growing, as they will likely coincide with grout decay. If the problem is identified early enough, re-grouting the loose tiles may be all it takes to get things good again. If the problem has persisted too long, however, repair may necessitate the replacement of rotten or spongy backer board, as well as the grout and tiles themselves.

Toilet Flange

The toilet flange is the hardware assembly used to connect the bottom of a toilet to your home's waste outflow pipes. This assembly includes a component known as the wax ring, which is used to help ensure a water-tight seal. Over time, the wax ring tends to corrode and break down, thus leading to water that seeps out from around the toilet each time you flush.

Problems with your toilet may also manifest as loose, damaged, or moldy flooring around the toilet. Likewise, it may lead to unsightly stains on the ceiling of the room below. A rocking or off-balance toilet is often a strong sign that the seal created by the wax ring may have become broken.

To correct this type of leak, you will have to install a new wax ring. This involves turning off the water supply, disconnecting the supply lines, and then unbolting the toilet. Then the toilet is lifted away, thus revealing the flange. A new wax ring is then fitted into place, and the toilet is lowered gently back down on top of it.

For more information on this topic, contact a company like Spotless Carpet Cleaners & Janitorial Services Inc.