The Damage a Small Tub Leak Can Do

We were hired to handle a unit turnover project that included a standard shower remodel. Everything looked routine—until we started demoing the old tub area.

That’s when we found it: a rusted-out P-trap, rotted wood framing, and a shallow crater beneath the slab. All caused by a slow, persistent leak from the tub that had gone unnoticed for far too long.

What Happens Below the Surface

Most people think of leaks as big, obvious problems—burst pipes, floods, etc. But the real damage often comes from small leaks that last months or even years, especially behind or under bathtubs.

Here’s what happened in this case:

The tub had a minor but continuous leak, either from the drain or a failed seal.

That leak saturated the surrounding framing, leading to wood rot around the base of the tub.

Water slowly made its way down through the slab, softening the ground and forming a divot under the concrete.

Over time, moisture also caused the P-trap to corrode and deteriorate, creating a much bigger plumbing risk down the road.

None of this was visible from the surface—but the pictures tell the real story.

Why HUGE Handyman Takes Extra Steps

At HUGE Handyman, we don’t just cover things up and call it a day. We inspect, demo, and look deeper—because if we hadn’t investigated the source of that water, the new shower would’ve been installed over a compromised, unstable base.

We always check:

Tub and shower drain integrity

Signs of water staining around framing

Slab moisture or soil softness

Plumbing materials and condition

Proper ventilation and slope to drain

What Homeowners Should Know

If you smell musty odors near your tub or notice discoloration at the floor edge, it’s worth investigating.

If you're remodeling, make sure your contractor inspects the subfloor, trap, and framing—especially in older units.

Replacing just the finish materials won't fix hidden water problems. It's what’s underneath that counts.

Ready to Remodel the Right Way?

Water damage doesn't announce itself. If you're planning a bathroom remodel—or think something might be off—HUGE Handyman can help spot the signs early and make the right repairs before things spiral.