Shower tiles are long-lasting, but the grout installed in between these units is vulnerable to degradation. This material tends to crumble and breakdown after exposure to moisture because of its porosity. This damage can result in the floor leakage and subsequent structural water damage. Therefore, if the grout lines in your bathroom are compromised, you should plan on conducting immediate repairs. This process will involve replacing the old material and sealing the lines. Here are basic steps for handling a simple re-grouting project.
Inspect the Shower
You should assess the condition of your shower grout before beginning the repair process. This will help you determine the perfect approach for restoration. For instance, if the grout is a little cracked but there are no loose pieces, you can apply caulk to prevent leakage. If the grout is discoloured, you can resolve this by bleaching and resealing. When the grout is crumbled, you will need to remove the material and conduct complete grout repairs.
Scrape the Material
Eliminating old and crumbled grout to facilitate repairs is quite simple. You will only need a simple tool to loosen the damaged material. You can use a grout saw, scrapper, screwdriver or even a skewer for this purpose. Once the material is broken up, you must clean it up. You can sweep the lines clean, but you will get better results by using a hose attachment with your vacuum cleaner. Ensure that all the loose pieces are removed to ensure successful repairs.
Compare the Grout
You will need to use the right grout material to repair the flooring. The best choice will depend on the general design of the shower space. The primary types to consider are sanded and unsanded. As implied, the former contains sand while the latter does not. The unsanded variety is favoured for its smooth texture. It is perfect for filling narrow tile joints and repairing delicate tile surfaces like marble and glass. The sanded variety should only be used to fill large joints.
Seal the Joints
Grout application is a straightforward procedure. You will need to pack the prepared grout into the joints of the tiling to prevent water seepage. However, you must remember that the repair material is porous and prone to moisture damage. Therefore, it is advisable to plan for surface sealing. Look for a compatible grout sealer from your local hardware store. Once the grout is cured, apply the sealer to prevent moisture penetration.
If you have concerns about the different aspects of shower re-grouting, consult a qualified repair specialist for shower re-grouting and sealing.
Share