Showers are the most commonly used wet area in the house. To prevent water from getting into unwanted parts of the home, it’s important the waterproofing system works in perfect harmony to achieve this goal.
However, not all shower components do this equally and wear-and-tear will compromise the system over time. If you’re asking yourself, “Can tile regrouting stop my shower from leaking?” This guide can help you find the answer.
Understanding the Basics of Grout
Typically made from a mixture of cement, water and sand, the combination of grout and sealant creates a watertight seal between tiles to stop water from breaching the surface.
That means tile grout is essentially waterproof, right? Not exactly.
While grout offers great stability in wet conditions, the unique formation of rocks and minerals means the material is quite porous. Grout is also susceptible to building movement, which compresses the material to reveal cracks, splits and pinholes – thus increasing the risk of potential leaks.
It’s not all bad news though, and tile grout does serve an important purpose. While grout isn’t waterproof, it is moisture-proof so condensation cannot travel from one side to the other.
Naturally, this condensation will evaporate throughout the day until the grout is dry.
Can Tile Regrouting Stop a Leaking Shower?
Whether or not replacing the tile grout will stop your leaking shower depends on the exact source of the leak.
Most showers leak when water enters the substrate of the property through cracks in the tiles, damaged grout or broken sealant barriers. It goes without saying, but these concealed parts of the home don’t cope well with moisture. When the conditions become damp, it not only causes serious damage to the property and encourages mould growth – but also attracts termites into your home.
If you have any clear defects on the shower surface, tile regrouting will probably fix your leaking shower.
How to Regrout Your Shower
Regrouting your tiles is a fairly quick and simple job. Plus, you don’t have to remove any tiles to do it.
First, you must remove the existing grout. This job can be done faster with a special grout removal tool, power grinder or cartridge blade. Cut away the grout to at least half the length of the tile.
Next, thoroughly remove any leftover grout or soapy discharge remaining on the surface. Then use a grout float to apply the new grout at a 45-degree angle. Be sure to smoothen out the surface until there’s no gaps or air bubbles.
Finally, wipe away the excess grout and apply grout sealer to further enhance their appearance and stability in wet conditions.
Don’t Have the Time, Resources or Skills? Hire the Professionals!
Shower Sealed offers you peace of mind with a 100% waterproof seal and the assurance of a guarantee.
With a combination of exclusive tools, products and procedures, Shower Sealed can 100% seal your shower in less than 4 hours. By using exclusive Ultra Bond Grout, you achieve a far superior watertight seal that lasts longer than conventional store-bought products.
There’s no need to remove tiles, and the area is ready to use the very next day. After the job is done, your shower will look fantastic and enjoy years of lasting protection from water damage.
Call Shower Sealed on 1300 519 133 for a FREE quote.
