Grout that has begun to fail is ugly and may lead to various problems. To begin, the edge of your floor tiles can become harmed if the grout between them is fractured and begins to loosen and crumble. Can cracks in shower grout cause leaks? Unfortunately, yes, they can. A slow leak in the shower grout can cause water to pool and eventually cause mildew and dampness to grow under the tiles if it is not fixed immediately.
The level of damage determines the nature of the necessary repairs. Learn a few tips that you can apply here.
Leakage between the wall and floor is a common issue in homes made of other materials, including solid brick, due to the constant expansion and contraction of the bricks.
Many showers, even those with a tray and membrane, are not designed to drain water independently and can only handle a certain amount of water at a time. If the tray overflows, the excess will seep into the floor and walls, which the carpet or woodwork absorbs.
These wet spots can attract all types of damage you can think of. Damage to the subfloor can cause tiles to loosen or even fall out of the floor. This standing water provides the perfect breeding ground for mould, mildew, insects, and other unwanted guests in your dark, wet subfloor.
Leaks can cause damage, but you can do a few things about it.
Reseal everything
It's essential to clean the grout and fix any fractures or crumbles in the grout lines before applying a new seal to your shower. Doing so will prevent the fresh coat of sealant from becoming a breeding ground for dirt and broken seams. If you want the seal to stick to the grout and not the tile, you may need to use a special applicator or brush on glazed tiles. When making repairs, it's best to call a licensed and insured specialist on regrouting, sealing and leaking shower repairs.
Redesign grout tiles
To get rid of the old grout, carefully pry it out of the lines with a screwdriver until the tile's edges are visible. Spread a thick layer of grout over the damaged area, then use a grout float to ensure it's thoroughly filled in.
To complete the job, wait 24 to 48 hours after applying the grout and then caulk the expansion joints with a grout caulk that matches the colour of the grout. Keeping your grout in good condition is essential for protecting your tile floor from water. The grout between your tiles should be spotless, firm, and undamaged.
For the same reasons you want to maintain your bathroom tiles, you should also reseal your grout every year to keep it waterproof and protect against discolouration, filth, and debris. Your tile floor's grout is a critical structural component you can safeguard by sealing the grout.
Now that you know cracks in shower grout cause leaks and the risks associated with damp shower floors, you should contact the experts at Saba Seal right away! Call our friendly team at 1300 557 222 for a free quote.