Can Regrouting Tiles Prevent Leaking?

Grout is the material squeezed into the spaces between tiles. It’s typically a mix of cement, water, sand, and sometimes colour tints to match or complement the tiles. Its job is to keep the tiles in place and to stop water from sneaking through those gaps.

Now, you might assume grout is waterproof. After all, it’s designed for wet environments, right? Well, not quite. Grout is porous by nature. The sand and cement in its composition allow tiny holes to form, meaning it can absorb moisture over time.

Actually, grout does provide some protection, which is enough to keep condensation at bay, but it’s not the impermeable barrier you might hope for.

Over time, the constant push and pull of building movements, combined with daily wear and tear, can lead to cracks, pinholes, or even chunks breaking off. When that happens, water finds its way through. This is basically how your tiles begin to seem like they are leaking.

So, what’s the solution when your grout starts to fail? In most cases, bathroom regrouting can be the key to fixing these issues and restoring your tiles to their former glory.

Will Your Shower Stop Leaking If You Regrout the Tiles?

Technically, this isn’t a yes or no question as there are some determining factors in play. If the leak is happening because your grout is old, cracked, or missing in spots, then regrouting can absolutely solve the problem.

However, if the issue lies deeper, like a plumbing problem or a missing waterproofing membrane, then regrouting is more like putting a bandage on a broken bone. It might cover the surface, but it won’t address the root cause of the problem at all.

How to Find the Source of the Leak

There’s one effective way to pinpoint the source of the leak in your tiles. It’s called the hob test and it’s primarily used in the bathroom.

Here’s how you conduct the hob test:

• Cover your shower drain with duct tape to block it.
• Fill the shower base (the hob) with water.
• Mark the water level and wait about 20 minutes.

If the water level drops, it means water is escaping somewhere, likely through damaged grout or tiles. If the water stays put, the leak might be coming from your plumbing or a deeper structural issue.

With this test, you get to save yourself a good deal of time, money, and frustration. You don’t want to go through the effort of regrouting tiles only to discover the real problem was hiding behind the wall all along.

Call in the Professionals to Fix It

Regrouting is a satisfying DIY project if you know what you’re doing. But not everyone has the time, tools, or confidence to take on a project like this. And that’s completely okay.

If the idea of wielding a power grinder makes you nervous, or if you’re unsure whether tile regrouting Sydney services are what you need, there’s no shame in calling in a professional.

Our regrouting experts at Tile Regrouting are ready and capable of taking the job off your hands. We understand that your home is your haven, and when something as fundamental as your shower is out of order, it disrupts your entire routine.

We bring years of expertise, professional-grade materials, and a commitment to quality that ensures your shower isn’t just repaired but restored.

Give us a call today or book your consultation to make your home leak-free and beautiful once again.