It is an awful and unpleasant scene to see your shower leaking, especially through tiles. We know that such a leak can occur when there is a water line. But it is the dreadful thought of getting mold behind tiles. What’s more frightening is the fear that it may weaken the structural integrity. Water can also make tiles lose by damaging the tile adhesive. That’s why it becomes a matter of urgency and required an immediate solution.
As soon as a leak comes to your notice, you have to fix the issue. But how can you solve this problem? Well, we are going to guide you through the process.
How to Stop Water Leaking?
There are 3 different ways to stop your shower leak. However, it completely depends upon the severity of the leakage. You may have to remove old ones and fix new tiles.
Grout Replacing
Cracked or crumbles grout is usually the first sign that there is water leakage. Also, if your grout is non-resistant to water it may be a reason in the near future. It is better if you replace it and apply new grout. The best way to remove it is tapping to make sure tiles are not damaged. Make sure that your tiles have clean gaps and are firmly adhered to.
After that, apply grout in small segments with the help of a rubber float. Make sure that you have a smooth grout without any gaps to avoid problems that may arise in the future. Don’t forget to clean the tile surfaces from excessive grout. You can also use a sponge to clear any residues after it is dried.
Replace Silicone
A silicone sealant is a good idea to stop the joints from leaking. You can use it in places where surfaces of walls, sinks or windows meet tiles. Do an inspection and look if there is any breakage of the silicone seal. You can apply a new sealant after removing the broken seal. Do this with a chisel or sharp knife and try not to damage the tiles.
Before applying new sealant, make sure that it is fungus and mold resistant. Clean and dry the surface joints where you intend to apply the sealant. You can use a spatula if you need and remove the excessive material.
Replace the Tiles
If the leakage has done the damage, it is better if you remove the tiles. This is necessary to fix the issue as the last option. Replacing the tiles will protect your walls and tiles as well. There are various Victorian Tiles in UK that you can pick. To avoid such incidents in the future, tanking the surface is an excellent solution. This is a waterproofing system for bathrooms and you can apply it with a roller.
To save your time, buy an already mixed tanking kit. This is perfect for you if you want to waterproof your shower. A tanking kit includes material and stuff that you may need during the process.
What You Should Do?
You should call an expert or builder if your shower still has a guarantee. Also, take an expert opinion to find out whether there is a leak in tapware or pipe-work. You can repair your leaking problem by yourself in case it is because of silicone or grout. Just use the right tools and recommended material to avoid mold.