Problem with recently installed Mira concealed shower mixer.

[surv1v0r]

I recently had a bathroom refurbished. This included the replacement of a shower cubicle, a Mira concealed shower mixer and a hot & cold water pump. Following this work, there is a fairly dramatic leak into the ceiling void of the room below the bathroom whenever anyone takes a shower.

There is only a leak when the shower is in use. By using a 1.75m long hose and running the shower with the water going into the hand-basin I have eliminated the cause being due to cracks in the shower base or bad sealing around the shower walls. Nor is the leak is coming from the pump or any of the visible pipework.

My only remaining explanation is that there is a leak either from the shower mixer itself or from the associated pipework. The mixer and the pipework is embedded in a wall covered by tiles.

Can anyone suggest what the problem might be and how I go about investigating it further. In particular, can anyone tell me how to go about removing the outlet connector where it comes through the wall - is it an irreversible push-fit or does it screw on? Likewise, how far can I go interms of exposing the actual mixer valve?

Many thanks for any help you can give me.

Incidentally, the plumber / builder who did the work has had a bereavement and is no help at all at the moment, that will be a problem for a later date.

 

[surv1v0r]

I am quite certain that the valve is a new one (or was when it was fitted). It is an Aqualisa Colt Concealed and it cost £237.14.

I have found two spare tiles so I will have a go at removing the tile - any suggestions as to how best I can do this? It is fixed to a Celcon block wall which I would rather not damage too much.

 

[Radioman]

I am quite certain that the valve is a new one (or was when it was fitted). It is an Aqualisa Colt Concealed and it cost £237.14.

I have found two spare tiles so I will have a go at removing the tile - any suggestions as to how best I can do this? It is fixed to a Celcon block wall which I would rather not damage too much.

Best way to remove the tile is to work from the center towards the outside. They look like biscuit glaze to me so should be failry soft. If porcelain proceed with care! Protect the tray with towels or dust sheets or thick cardboard, wear proper gloves and eyeprotection. GENTLY tap the center of the tile with a hammer until it cracks, then using a thin blade prize the shards away.

Depending on the type of cement used you may or may not bring away the plaster, a proper waterproof cement will, but if you used a showerproof then it may not. If you do then you can make good by cleaning down, 2 coats of PVA, a small amount of Hardwall or Bonding to level off then your tile cement, you could use a 1 coat but I wouldnt out of choice.

Remember when you replace the tile that you need to leave the area around the valve clear for maintenance etc. Thats what the mortar guard is for. Also worth noting that the later plastic bodied valves dont like to be in contact with gypsum based products.