Re-attached a bath plug hole now it leaks...

[Mattk]

Our bath has been draining slower and slower in recent weeks so I decided to take a look what the problem was not realising that the plug hole was actually fixed to bits below the bath.

My aim was to unscrew the bath plug-hole to see what the blockage was but after a short while of unscrewing I realised that the bath plug-hole was not supposed to be removed in this way so I screwed it back down. Now each time the bath is used it still drains very slowly but it also leaks onto the ceiling below.

Have I damaged something underneath or is it just a case of realignment or similar of the plughole again?

Thanks for any advice.

[boxtops]

I am no plumber but I suspect that you have somehow detached the plughole (which is only a sort of cover) from the actual drainpipe from the bath, it should be a sealed unit. (Easier to try a plunger first, next time, or to empty a bottle of Mr Muscle drainer cleaner down the plughole!) You might need professional help, IMO. If you can see leak marks on the ceiling below there may be quite a bit of water escaping. My bath in the attic leaked from an inlet pipe and the water centred around the electric light in the room below, so you do need to be careful.

[NazNomad]

If I assume correctly, you have a metal 'spider' part with a screw in the centre. If I'm right, it screws into a brass insert in the plastic waste fitting under the bath, essentially sandwiching the bath between the 2 parts.
There's usually a rubber seal on top of the plastic waste part which sits against the bottom of the bath, i'm guessing you've disturbed this.

If you can get access to the underside of the bath (removing the bath panel) then it's an easy fix.

[Mattk]

Thanks guys - I know I'm an eejit!

Naz, you're description sounds spot on. Does the rubber seal to which you refer just need repositioning or will sealant be necessary?

[NazNomad]

It should just seal of its own accord, if it's old and brittle it may need replacing, or a little bead of silicone on it before you squish it against the bath.

Until you get it off and have a looksy, there's no telling. :-)

[Mattk]

Thanks for the prompt response.

Is the only way to get at it from the side or can I 'persuade' it back via the plug-hole?

[NazNomad]

Looking for a pic for you and found this, it might help ... http://www.practicald...waste/bath_wastes.php

[AlBags]

Acess to underneath important for this repair.