Water damage on a ceiling from failed shower silicone seal.
Sep 21, 2025

How to Stop a Leaking Shower (and Save Your Ceiling) – Neatly Done

How to Stop a Leaking Shower (and Save Your Ceiling)

By Neatly Done – Mastic & Silicone Sealing Experts in Milton Keynes

A leaking shower isn’t just an annoyance — it can lead to ceiling stains, mould growth, damp smells, and costly structural damage. If you’ve noticed water marks on your ceiling, drips downstairs, or damp patches around the shower, you’re not alone.

At Neatly Done, we help homeowners across Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire stop leaks at the source with professional silicone sealing. Here’s everything you need to know about fixing a leaking shower and preventing the problem from coming back.

Why Showers Start Leaking

Failed or Old Silicone Seals

The number one reason showers leak is because the silicone around trays, doors, and tiles has cracked, lifted, or simply worn out. Once the seal fails, water escapes behind walls and ceilings.

Damaged Grout or Tiles

Even small cracks in grout or loose tiles allow water to seep through, often unnoticed until a ceiling below becomes stained.

Plumbing or Drainage Issues

Sometimes the leak comes from hidden pipework or a faulty shower waste. These are trickier to spot but can cause serious damage over time.

Signs You’ve Got a Leaking Shower

  • Ceiling stains or bubbling paint directly below the bathroom.

  • Damp smells or mould patches near the shower.

  • Water pooling around the base or outside the enclosure.

  • Silicone seals that look cracked, discoloured, or lifting.

How to Stop a Leaking Shower Safely

Step 1 – Inspect the Seals

Check around the shower tray, doors, and wall edges. If the silicone looks damaged, that’s likely the cause.

Step 2 – Avoid Quick Fixes

DIY sealant touch-ups or bathroom tape might hide the problem for a while, but they won’t stop water sneaking through gaps.

Step 3 – Reseal the Shower Properly

The only reliable way to fix a leaking shower is to remove the failed silicone and reapply a clean, professional seal. This restores a watertight barrier and prevents further leaks.

Why Resealing Your Shower Works

  • Stops leaks immediately – preventing water from damaging ceilings and walls.

  • Protects your home long-term – no hidden damp spreading unnoticed.

  • Looks brand new – neat, clean seals also improve your bathroom’s appearance.

DIY vs Professional Resealing

The Trouble with DIY

Cheap silicone, rushed prep, and uneven application mean the leak usually comes back.

The Professional Advantage

At Neatly Done, we:

  • Remove every trace of old silicone.

  • Use high-quality hygienic sealants.

  • Apply smooth, precise finishes that last.

  • Work quickly — often fixing leaks in just a few hours.

Why Choose Neatly Done to Fix a Leaking Shower?

Local Expertise

Based in Milton Keynes, we also cover Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Northamptonshire.

Flexible Appointments

We work 7 days a week so you don’t have to wait around for weeks to fix a leak.

Lasting Results

Our precise sealing not only stops leaks but also keeps your bathroom hygienic, watertight, and looking its best.

FAQs – How to Stop a Leaking Shower

Will resealing my shower stop it leaking through the ceiling?

Yes — if the leak is caused by failed silicone (which is very common). Our resealing creates a watertight barrier that stops leaks at the source.

What if the leak is from pipes or drains?

We’ll let you know if it’s a plumbing issue. But in most cases, leaks are caused by failed seals — not the plumbing.

Can I use mould spray to fix it?

No. Sprays and cleaners may remove surface stains, but they won’t stop water escaping. Proper resealing is the only permanent fix.

How long does it take to reseal a shower?

Most resealing jobs take just a few hours, and your shower is ready to use again the next day.

FAQs About Neatly Done (neatlydone.co.uk)

Do you only work in Milton Keynes?

Milton Keynes is our base, but we also serve Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Northamptonshire.

Do you work weekends?

Yes — we’re flexible and available 7 days a week.

What else do you seal?

We also reseal baths, sinks, windows, doors, kitchens, and more.

How can I book a job?

Head to our contact page or call us directly. We offer flexible appointments 7 days a week.

Ready for a Fresh, Water-Tight Finish?

If you’ve spotted water stains on your ceiling or your shower sealant looks cracked and worn, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. A quick reseal from Neatly Done will stop leaks in their tracks and protect your home from costly damage. Get in touch today for a clean, professional finish that lasts.

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Ready for the finishing touch to your home?

Ready for the finishing touch to your home?

Ready for the finishing touch to your home?