How to Repair a Drain Leak in a Tub

Inspect and Repair the Drain

1). Open the access panel to the tub to locate your drain pipe. Cut a hole in the ceiling with a keyhole saw if you do not have access to the drain from the panel.
2). Wipe the drain clean with a rag. Plug the tub and fill it partially with water. Monitor the pipe for signs of leaks. The leak is coming from the rubber grommet around the drain if the leak is present while the tub is plugged.
3). Remove the tub plug and allow the tub to drain. Watch the pipe closely. You will see a leak develop out of a hole or crack if you have a damaged section of pipe. A weak joint may also develop a leak.
4). Remove the screen in the tub by unscrewing it with a screwdriver. The drain connects to the pipe by screwing into it. Insert needle-nose pliers into the drain so that you can grasp it from the inside. Unscrew the drain.
5). Replace the drain seal, which is a rubber grommet between the drain and the tub. Install the new one and tighten the drain down. Retest to make sure the leak has stopped.

1). Cut off the damaged section of the pipe with a hacksaw. You will have to remove the drain as you did in Step 4 if the damaged section is the J-shaped trap.
2). Measure and cut a replacement section of PVC pipe. Dry-fit the PVC pipe into the joints and connect it to the original pipe to make sure it fits. You will have to purchase and install a new drain connection if you are replacing the J-shaped trap. Follow the installation instructions for the replacement drain to attach the drain to the J-shaped trap.
3). Apply PVC primer to the ends of the new pipe and the original pipe. Apply the PVC cement to each end. Press the PVC joint onto the original pipe, and insert the replacement pipe. Twist the joints to spread the cement around.
4). Test the drain after 15 minutes of drying time.