Water under the floor usually comes from a leaking supply line, a failed toilet seal, a cracked shower pan, or an appliance hose. In some Brooklyn homes, heating pipes or groundwater in a basement can also be the cause.
Bathroom Sources
Toilets are a common culprit. When the wax seal under a toilet fails, water can leak out each time you flush and soak the floor around it. Showers can leak too. A cracked shower pan or worn grout lets water get under the tile. You may notice loose tiles, soft spots, or stains on the ceiling below.
Kitchen and Laundry Sources
Dishwashers, refrigerator water lines, and washing machines all have hoses that can crack or loosen. These leaks often go unnoticed because the appliances sit over the problem area. Warped floorboards or a musty smell near an appliance are good clues.
Pipes Under the Floor
Water supply and drain pipes often run under floors, especially in older brownstones and row houses. A slow leak in one of these pipes can spread out before it shows up. In homes with radiators, a leaking heating pipe or valve can also leave water on or under the floor.
Basement and Cellar Water
If water shows up on a basement floor, it may come from outside, such as groundwater after heavy rain. It can also come from a floor drain backing up. Water that smells like sewage needs fast attention and should not be touched without gloves.
Shut off the water to any fixture or appliance you think is leaking. Dry the area and watch to see if the water returns. If you cannot find the source, a plumber can trace the leak and fix the problem.
If you are finding water under your floors, call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840. After the leak is repaired, a check of the appliance hoses and supply lines nearby can catch other weak spots.