How to Fix a Leaking Shower Without Removing Tiles

January 03, 2023

Many people notice stains on the ceiling below their bathroom or find excessive water buildup around the tub or shower area and automatically assume there is a leaking pipe or drain.


That isn't necessarily the case, and you don't want to rush to that conclusion and call someone to fix a problem that doesn't exist.

Before you decide you have leaking pipes, take a look at the shower caulking and the grout around your bathtub or shower. The grout and the caulking should get maintenance from time to time.

If they are neglected, cracks can begin to appear in the caulking or in the grout between the tiles. This will allow moisture to seep through. It's important to stop the leak immediately so there is no further damage, particularly to the material behind the tiles and wall. You can fix a leaking shower without removing the tiles if you catch this problem before extensive damage has occurred.

How to Fix a Leaking Shower Without Removing Tiles

1. Thoroughly clean the leaking areas first. Remove any soap scum and mold from the entire area so you can take a look between the tiles and at the grout itself. You can remove any loose or cracked pieces of grout until you actually locate solid grout. Scrape and brush out the joints so you can see what you're working with. Dry the area thoroughly, then use a sponge and begin applying new grout. You can use pre-mixed grout in squeeze tubes or tub containers. Allow the grout to set according to the directions on the container, then wipe away any excess with a damp sponge.


2. You need to seal the seams where the tile meets the tub or shower floor. Scrape out the old caulk and replace it. Silicone caulk is a good choice because it remains flexible when the tub expands and contracts. Be sure to seal around the faucet escutcheons and tub. This will prevent water from getting behind the tiles.



3. Allow your grout to cure for as long as the directions state. After curing, you can apply a sealant to the grout. Some epoxy grout doesn't need to be sealed, but sealing keeps moisture from causing damage and can extend the life of your grout.

While the steps themselves are relatively simple, most homeowners probably don't want to take on the job themselves. There are many reasons professional help can be beneficial. First, identify the problem. A professional in hard surface restoration, such as Sir Grout, can immediately determine if the leakage is an issue with the tile grout or caulking. This means the homeowner will know for sure what is the cause of the leakage.


Having a professional perform the work also means you can be sure the job is done as it should be from start to finish, ensuring the finished work will last. Let's face it. Not every homeowner is a do-it-yourselfer. Some things just need to be left to the professionals. Leakage in your shower can lead to the build-up of black mold, which is not something a homeowner wants to ever happen. Sir Grout can ensure there is no black mold and that the circumstances that lead to black mold are alleviated. This means the customer can rest assured their family will be safe. In this article, you can learn why hiring a professional to regrout your tile is the best option.

Shower Caulking and Grout Restoration Professionals

Sir Grout is the leader in hard surface restoration. We offer a range of services that include tile and grout cleaning, re-coloring and sealing, caulking, stone cleaning and sealing, stone countertop sealing, and high-durability coatings. We can repair or replace damaged grout and clean up any damage that has been left behind by old grout or caulking, including all traces of the black mold that can be a risk to your family's health.


In fact, there's no need to wait for leakage or other damage to call Sir Grout. Even grout that hasn't begun to show signs of damage can be improved. Dirt and grime build up on your tile and grout, which can cause your shower to look less than attractive. When your grout or caulking begins to look like this, Sir Grout's restoration services can immediately bring your shower back to life and perform preventative maintenance to keep major issues from happening in the first place.

If you are experiencing leaks in your shower, call Sir Grout at (866) 476-8863 to set up a free in-home evaluation of the problem. Don't rush out and spend money fixing pipes that aren't the problem. Sir Grout can determine the issues and let you know what is needed to fix them. Our FREE in-home evaluation can set your mind at ease.