Is your bathroom turning into an indoor pool every time you shower? A leaking shower base is a common yet potentially damaging problem in Australian bathrooms. We at Tile and Grout Solutions offer a few tips on how to repair a leaking shower base, including how to identify the source of the leak. One thing is certain: the substrate and nearby structural parts will sustain damage if repairs are postponed. Water can spread unchecked to nearby parts of your house once the waterproofing membrane is compromised. The sooner the repairs are completed, the less damage your house will sustain.
What is Causing Your Shower Floor to Leak?
Deteriorated Grout and Sealants
Cracked or decaying grout is often the cause of shower base leaks. Temperature variations throughout the year cause homes to expand and contract, which results in grout cracks that let water in. Likewise, deteriorated silicone sealants, especially those that are less expensive, leave gaps that allow water to enter beneath the base.
Waterproofing Membrane
The waterproofing membrane underneath your shower tiles is essential for preventing leaks. When this membrane breaks, water can easily seep through to the flooring and surrounding framework because of faulty installation, ageing, or damage sustained during restorations.
Structural Issues and Damage
Hairline fractures in shower trays or bases are frequently caused by impact damage, house shifting, or foundation movement. Even little cracks can eventually cause high amounts of water to escape, damaging the substrate and framework of your house.
Poor Plumbing
Improper installation of the shower base, inadequate slope towards the drain, or faulty plumbing connections can all contribute to leaks. These installation errors might not be immediately apparent but can cause serious problems over time.
How to Identify a Leaking Shower Base?
Check your shower on a regular basis to spot signs of a shower leaking early and minimise substrate damage, which will save expensive repairs. Be vigilant for the following:
A damp smell indicates trapped moisture and mould growth, a common sign of a shower leaking through the floor or behind walls.
Black or coloured mould spots on the grout, silicone sealant, walls, or even the ceiling below (in multi-story homes) are strong indicators of a shower leaking from base or elsewhere.
If the grout is discoloured, crumbly, or missing, water can easily penetrate, causing a shower leaking behind tiles and affecting the base.
Shower doors that jam or don’t close properly can be due to water damage.
Water can leak from loose or cracked tiles behind them, possibly damaging the structure beneath and creating a leaking shower base.
Walls surrounding the shower that feel damp to the touch or show signs of warping or staining indicate water damage from a leaking shower base or wall leaks.
Water stains to flooring such as carpets at bathroom entries or adjoining rooms.
Moisture trapped behind the walls due to a shower leaking can cause paint to peel or bubble, especially in areas adjacent to the shower.
Temporary Fixes
Temporary fixes can help minimise water damage while you plan the proper solution for your leaking shower repairs:
Waterproof Tape
Waterproof repair tape can temporarily fix minor, visible cracks in the shower base. Make sure the area is dry and clean before applying.
Sealant or Epoxy
A waterproof sealant or epoxy made for wet areas might provide a temporary barrier for small cracks or gaps in the grout or around the base. Apply a high-quality, mould-resistant sealant, clean the area carefully, and let it cure completely before taking a shower.
Ventilation
Use an exhaust fan or open a window to air out moisture and lower the chance of mould growth and additional damage.
Careful Showering
You can reduce the quantity of water that escapes the shower area by changing your showering practices to minimise water splashing.
Permanent Fixes
The size and source of the leak determine the best method for repairing a leaking shower base. The following are typical long-term fixes:
1. Regrouting and Resealing
Deteriorated or missing grout and sealant is usually the main reason a shower leaking from base or under the tiles. If the waterproofing membrane beneath the shower base is still intact and the shower base itself is not broken or fractured, this technique can be used to fix small leaks.
Process
Use a grout saw or a rotary tool to carefully remove any old or broken grout. Make sure the grout lines are clean and there is no mildew and debris. Give the area time to fully dry. Press fresh, high-quality, waterproof, and flexible grout into the spaces. Once the grout has cured, apply a small amount of mould-resistant silicone sealant around the perimeter of the shower base where it joins to the walls and any plumbing fixtures.
2. Shower Base Repair Kits
DIY repair kits are available for small, non-structural cracks or chips in fibreglass or acrylic shower bases. It won’t fix leaks caused by sealants, grout, or underlying waterproofing problems.
Process
You mix and apply a resin and hardener that are usually included in these kits to the injured region. Pay close attention to the preparation, application, and curing times specified by the manufacturer. Get a smooth finish by sanding and polishing.
3. Waterproofing Membrane Application
A more thorough repair is required if the waterproofing membrane underneath has deteriorated. In certain situations, it may be possible to cover existing tiles with a fresh liquid waterproofing membrane.
Process
Make sure the tiled surface is clean and ready. As directed by the manufacturer, apply a primer and then multiple layers of a flexible, paint-on waterproofing membrane. This gives the tiles and grout a fresh layer of waterproofing.
4. Shower Base Replacement
When the waterproofing membrane beneath a shower base is seriously deteriorated, or if the base is badly cracked, damaged, or structurally weak, replacing it is the most reliable long-term solution.
Process
The current shower base would have to be taken out, which may require removing the tiles. The subfloor underneath is examined for signs of water damage and fixed if required. A brand-new shower base is set up, levelled, and connected to the drain. Fresh waterproofing is placed at the base and up the walls before installing new tiles.
5. Professional Leaking Shower Repairs
If you are nervous about performing repairs yourself, or if previous do-it-yourself attempts have not succeeded, it is always the best option to hire a professional experienced in leaking shower repairs for complex or persistent leaks.
Process
Professionals can pinpoint the source of the leak, which may include pressure testing or moisture detection equipment. They have the know-how and equipment to carry out the required fixes, whether it is base repair, resealing, regrouting, or replacement as per Australian building regulations.
Tips to Prevent Future Shower Base Leaks
Below are some tips to minimise the chances of future shower base leaking:
Inspect your shower at regular intervals for cracks in grout, broken sealant, or loose tiles, and fix what you can.
Keep your bathroom well-ventilated to allow moisture to escape, reducing the chance of mould formation and potentially damaging grout and sealants.
Invest in high-quality, flexible grout, mould-resistant sealant, and a durable shower base when designing or remodelling your bathroom. Have a trained expert install the waterproofing membrane.
Avoid shooting water at grout lines and sealant, particularly around the shower base perimeter and door seals.
Position shower curtains in the right manner to keep water inside the shower area, and shower screens with proper seals.
Clean with mild, bathroom-only cleaners that will not damage grout or sealant.
Final Thoughts
One issue that needs to be addressed is a leaking shower base. You can prevent water damage to your Australian house and maintain a healthy and dry bathroom by being aware of the warning signs, using the right repair techniques, and taking preventative action. Your home requires leaking shower repairs that are completed promptly and effectively, whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional like Tile and Grout Solutions. Keep in mind that short-term solutions are only that—short-term. Future time, money, and stress savings can be achieved by investing in a suitable, long-term solution.