If you’re dealing with a clogged tub drain, don’t despair. Repairing a tub drain is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to repair a tub drain. We’ll also provide some tips for preventing future clogs.
To begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools. These include a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, a drain snake, and a bucket. Once you have your tools, you can follow these steps:
1. Remove the drain cover. The drain cover is usually held in place by a few screws. Once you’ve removed the screws, you can lift the drain cover off.
2. Clean the drain opening. Once the drain cover is removed, you’ll need to clean the drain opening. You can do this with a drain snake or a pair of pliers. Remove any hair, soap scum, or other debris that may be clogging the drain.
3. Reinstall the drain cover. Once the drain opening is clean, you can reinstall the drain cover. Secure the drain cover with the screws.
Replace the Drain Stopper or Gasket
If the stopper or gasket is worn or damaged, it can allow water to leak through the drain. To replace the stopper or gasket:
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Locate the set screw that secures the stopper to the drain. The set screw is usually located on the underside of the stopper.
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Use a screwdriver to loosen the set screw. Do not remove the set screw completely.
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Pull the stopper out of the drain.
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Inspect the stopper and gasket for damage. If either the stopper or gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one.
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Apply a thin bead of plumber’s putty around the base of the new gasket.
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Insert the new gasket into the drain.
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Push the stopper into the drain.
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Tighten the set screw to secure the stopper in place.
Replace the Drain Assembly
If the drain assembly is leaking, you may need to replace it. This is a more involved repair, but it is still possible to do it yourself with a few tools and supplies.
Step 1: Remove the Old Drain Assembly
- Turn off the water supply to the tub.
- Place a bucket or bowl under the drain to catch any water that may leak out.
- Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws that hold the drain assembly in place.
- Carefully pull the drain assembly out of the tub.
Step 2: Clean the Drain Hole
Once the drain assembly is removed, you can clean the drain hole. Use a sponge, brush, or cloth to remove any debris or gunk. You can also use a drain cleaner to help dissolve any buildup.
Step 3: Install the New Drain Assembly
Once the drain hole is clean, you can install the new drain assembly.
- Place the drain assembly in the drain hole.
- Tighten the screws that hold the drain assembly in place.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
| Material | Cost |
|---|---|
| Brass | $20-$50 |
| Plastic | $10-$25 |
Seal the Drain Connections
To ensure a watertight seal around the drain, it’s crucial to address any potential leaks at the drain connections. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sealing drain connections and preventing water from seeping through:
1. Inspect Connections
Start by inspecting the drain connections for any signs of damage or loose fittings. Check for cracks, gaps, or missing components.
2. Clean Surfaces
Thoroughly clean the surfaces around the drain connections using a degreaser or rubbing alcohol. Remove any dirt, grime, or residue to create a clean and dry surface for sealing.
3. Apply Plumber’s Putty
Apply a generous amount of plumber’s putty to the threads of the drain connection. This putty will help seal any gaps and prevent leaks.
4. Tighten Drain Gasket
Insert the drain gasket into the drain connection and tighten it securely. Ensure that the gasket is properly seated and forms a watertight seal.
5. Apply Washer
If required, apply a washer over the drain gasket to provide additional sealing. Tighten the washer snugly to create a secure connection.
6. Use Thread Sealant
For added protection, apply a thread sealant to the threads of the drain connection. This sealant will help further prevent leaks by filling any small gaps.
7. Tighten Drain Assembly
Carefully tighten the drain assembly by hand or with a wrench. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the connections.
8. Test for Leaks
Once the drain assembly is tightened, test for leaks by running water into the tub and observing the drain connections. If any leaks are detected, repeat the sealing process until the drain is completely watertight.
| Materials Needed for Sealing Drain Connections |
|---|
| Plumber’s putty |
| Drain gasket |
| Washer (if required) |
| Thread sealant |
Preventive Maintenance
Regular cleaning and inspection of your tub drain can help prevent problems from developing. Here are some tips for preventive maintenance:
- Clean the drain regularly: Remove hair, soap scum, and other debris from the drain using a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar.
- Inspect the drain for leaks: Check the drain for any signs of leaks, such as dripping water or wet spots.
- Tighten loose screws: Make sure all the screws holding the drain in place are tight.
- Replace the drain cover: If the drain cover is damaged or missing, replace it with a new one.
Troubleshooting
If you’re experiencing problems with your tub drain, here are some troubleshooting tips:
1. Slow drainage
- Clean the drain of hair and soap scum.
- Check for a clog in the P-trap.
- Use a drain snake to clear a clog in the drain line.
2. Leaking drain
- Tighten the screws holding the drain in place.
- Replace the washer or gasket around the drain.
- Call a plumber if the leak persists.
3. Clogged drain
- Use a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar.
- Use a drain snake to clear a clog in the drain line.
- Call a plumber if you can’t clear the clog yourself.
4. Broken drain
- Replace the broken drain.
- Call a plumber if you’re not comfortable replacing the drain yourself.
5. Noisy drain
- Lubricate the drain stopper.
- Replace the drain stopper if it’s damaged.
6. Loose drain
- Tighten the screws holding the drain in place.
- Call a plumber if the drain is still loose.
7. Cracked drain
- Replace the cracked drain.
- Call a plumber if you’re not comfortable replacing the drain yourself.
8. Rusting drain
- Clean the rust off the drain.
- Apply a rust-resistant coating to the drain.
9. Discolored drain
- Clean the drain with a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar.
- Call a plumber if the discoloration persists.
10. Drain not draining at all
- Check for a clog in the drain cover, P-trap, or drain line.
- Use a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar to clear the clog.
- Call a plumber if you can’t clear the clog yourself.
How To Repair Tub Drain
Materials:
- Drain stopper and assembly
- Plumber’s putty
- Adjustable wrench
- Rags
- Flashlight
Instructions:
- Remove the drain stopper: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the drain stopper.
- Remove the old drain assembly: Once the stopper is removed, use the wrench to loosen and remove the drain assembly.
- Clean the drain hole: Use a rag to clean the drain hole of any debris or old plumber’s putty.
- Apply plumber’s putty: Roll a small amount of plumber’s putty into a snake-like shape and press it around the base of the new drain assembly.
- Insert the new drain assembly: Insert the new drain assembly into the drain hole and hand-tighten it.
- Tighten the drain assembly: Use the wrench to further tighten the drain assembly, ensuring it is securely in place.
- Reinstall the drain stopper: Insert the drain stopper into the drain assembly and tighten it using the wrench.
People Also Ask About How To Repair Tub Drain
What are the common causes of a leaking tub drain?
- Worn or damaged drain stopper
- Loose drain assembly
- Cracked or damaged drainpipe
How do I know if my tub drain needs to be repaired?
- Water leaking from the drain hole
- Slow draining tub
- Visible damage to the drain assembly
Can I repair the tub drain myself?
- Yes, you can repair the tub drain yourself with basic tools and materials. However, if the damage is extensive or involves the main drainpipe, it’s best to call a plumber.
