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Seattle, WA on Apr 16, 2012

Soft spot on floor of tub -- when do I worry?

My master bath has a jacuzzi whirlpool "majora". No jets, so no access panel. I've noticed a 'soft' spot on the tub floor about 3" round. I cannot see it with my eyes-- its that shallow. But i can feel it with the ball of my foot, or my hand. I just bought the house 4 months ago. There are no visible cracks, and no water damage to the floor underneath (it's over a second bathroom).

I can't figure out what it could be. Also I can't access it-- there's my kitchen shared wall on one side and a linen closet on the other. My bf tells me not to worry but I am worried about water damage that I cannot see...

So, is it time to call a pro? And which type of pro do I call?

Thanks all.

8 Comments

Tommye W Vancourt, TX

If there's a ceiling under it seems like it would have showed up already. Maybe it's a defect in the tub itself? Like a thin place in the fiberglass?

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Trisha R Colorado Springs, CO

I would ask a plumber. They should be able to give an idea of what it is- It could be one of two things, water damage or when they installed the tub, the concrete they put under it for support may have had a bubble of air that didn't fill in- thus leaving a small unsupported spot. Either way just keep an eye on it..

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Carroll A Coos Bay, OR

For me peace of mind is priceless. I would call in a pro and have it checked.

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Jeanette R Sun City, CA

I had a whirlpool tub that had the same thing only a little larger space. I was told it was likely caused from a poor installation job. I owned the home for 17 years and never had a problem. But every house is different and it is never a bad idea to get a professional opinion.

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Nancy L P Cedarburg, WI

Sounds like there was a void or low spot in the concrete base installed underneath the tub that firms up the tub floor. I suppose enough force "just right" like tripping and hitting your heel there might make a crack in the tub. Maybe check with a plumber who has installed a lot of these for advice. I know how annoying this could be.

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Marcia N Hubbard, OH

Many fiberglass tubs have a foam under-layment to help support areas of the tub that slope toward the drain over time this rigid foam may loose some volume because of weight of individuals using the shower and can create a soft area... If you are able to get at it and reinforce this foam it may be a smart idea - Keep a close watch on it - you don't want to see cracking in the fiberglass... I have a spot in one of our fiberglass surround units and we are thinking when it gives out it ...»
will be our cue to get something better... Good luck to you! Our home was built in 79 so this is all original stuff!

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 1
Michelle E Churubusco, IN

I agree with Marcia. Some tubs even lack any support and you are supposed to add it during installation. The tub ( not a whirlpool or large tub) in my second bath was not installed with any support underneath. It lasted about 10 yrs before a tiny crack formed...which of course grew larger with use. We are now ripping out walls as the water did not damage the floor (which was tile covered), and the wall damage was not visible except a bit soft along lower edge by tub- until we started the ...»
remodel and found mold covering the side of the drywall that was not showing....not just near the tub- but up to 8 ft away. I am just hoping we will not have to rip out the drywall in the room that the back of the surround sat against too. My advice would be to get some support under that tub now.

on Apr 16, 2012 · Like 0
Dee W Rock Creek, OH

We also have this issue-for 18 years, in an upstairs bathtub. After all this time and 7 children using it we have been fortunate to have no cracks or leaks. I always check it when I am washing the tub for changes.

on Apr 17, 2012 · Like 0