Maintaining your shower tiles in good condition not only keeps your bathroom looking its best, but also helps prevent leaks, cracks and other damage. With time and use, shower tiles can become stained, chipped, or start to fall off the wall. Repairing damaged shower tiles yourself can save money compared to calling in a professional. With the right techniques and materials, repairing shower tiles is an achievable DIY project for many homeowners.
Assessing the Damage
Before starting any shower tile repair work, it’s important to fully assess the scope of the problem. Carefully inspect all the shower walls and ceiling and take notes on any areas that need attention. Common problems include:
- Cracked, chipped, or missing grout. Grout can deteriorate, crack or fall out over time due to moisture, impacts, or improper installation.
- Loose, broken, or missing tiles. Tiles may have loosened from the substrate or broken from impacts.
- Leaks. Water seeping behind tiles can point to problems with the waterproofing membrane.
- Discolored or stained tiles. Tiles accumulate mineral deposits, soap scum and mildew over time if not cleaned regularly.
- Hollow or drummy tiles. Tap tiles to check if the bonding has failed and they sound hollow.
Thoroughly cleaning the tiles first makes it easier to determine which ones need repairs or replacement. Inspect from multiple angles in bright light to catch all the damage.
Gathering Materials and Tools
Repairing shower tiles requires several specialized materials and tools to do the job right. Gather all the items you need before starting.
Materials
- New tiles. Match your existing tiles in color, size, texture, and thickness as closely as possible. Purchase extras in case any break.
- Grout. Use premixed grout or mix powdered grout to match the existing color.
- Mastic adhesive. Choose a mold-resistant, flexible thinset mortar adhesive suitable for wet areas.
- Backerboard. Cement backerboard provides a rigid base for replacing tiles.
- Tub and tile caulk. Choose a flexible, waterproof silicone caulk.
- Grout sealer. Seal grout lines after regrouting to protect from moisture.
- Epoxy adhesive. Two-part epoxy adheres stubborn existing tiles permanently.
Tools
- Grout saw. A specialty saw with a carbide tip cuts out old grout.
- Putty knife. A stiff putty knife scrapes off old adhesive and grout residue.
- Tiling trowel. Use to spread mastic adhesive evenly.
- Grout float. For forcing new grout into grout lines.
- Grout sponge. A sponge with a foam backing helps smooth grout.
- Mixing bucket. Needed for mixing grout and epoxy.
- Safety gear. Use safety goggles and dust mask when cutting tiles.
Additional Supplies
Rags, towels, painter’s tape, and a spray bottle filled with water are also useful for tile prep and cleanup.
Removing Existing Grout
Replacing deteriorated, cracked, or missing grout in the grout lines between tiles helps stop moisture from seeping behind tiles and repairs unsightly gaps.
Use the following steps to regrout shower tiles:
- Use a grout saw to carefully cut out old grout to a depth of at least 3/8 inch. Hold the saw at a 45° angle and slowly move it back and forth to scrape out the grout.
- Use a stiff putty knife to scrape out remaining grout residue. Spray water and wipe with a rag to remove debris and clean grout lines.
- Apply painter’s tape along wall edges and vertical grout lines to act as a guide and keep new grout contained.
- Apply premixed grout along the horizontal grout lines using a grout float. Push firmly at an angle to fully pack the grout lines.
- Let the grout sit for 10-15 minutes until slightly hardened. Then hold the grout float at a 90° angle and forcefully scrape off excess grout.
- Use a damp grout sponge in a circular motion to smooth and shape the grout lines. Rinse the sponge frequently.
- Once grout lines are smooth and uniform, remove painter’s tape. Allow 24 hours for grout to fully cure before sealing.
Regrouting with fresh grout restores the clean uniform appearance of shower walls and prevents leaks between tiles.
Replacing Broken Tiles
Chipped, cracked, or missing shower tiles should be replaced. Match the new tiles as closely as possible to the old in dimensions and appearance.
Follow these steps for tile replacement:
- With a grout saw, cut out all grout surrounding the damaged tile and carefully pry it off the wall using a putty knife.
- Scrape away any remaining mortar adhesive and roughen the surface for good bonding.
- Measure the opening and cut cement backerboard to tightly fit the cavity. Apply mastic to the backerboard and press it firmly into the opening.
- Spread a layer of mastic on the backerboard with a notched trowel. Press the new tile into place, twisting slightly. Use painter’s tape to hold it in place if needed.
- Once the adhesive is dry, use a grout saw to cut grout lines around the edges of the new tile to match existing grout lines. Regrout the tile into place.
- Wipe away excess grout and use a damp sponge to shape and smooth the new grout lines.
Take care aligning, spacing, and leveling the new tile to blend into the surrounding tiles. New grout completes the repair.
Re-adhering Loose Tiles
Over time, shower tiles can come loose and feel hollow or drummy when tapped. Moisture seeping behind the tile erodes the adhesive. Re-adhering the tiles avoids replacing them.
For re-adhering tiles:
- Tap tiles to detect any loose, hollow sounding ones. Scrape away old grout surrounding a problem tile.
- Pry up the loose tile just enough to force epoxy adhesive underneath using a putty knife.
- Mix a two-part epoxy adhesive and work it fully under the tile using a thin putty knife or painter’s stick.
- Clamp the tile in place until the epoxy fully hardens (24-48 hours). Wipe away excess adhesive.
- Re-grout around the tile perimeter. The epoxy will hold it permanently.
Inspect all shower tiles and re-adhere multiple tiles in one session once identified. Epoxy adhesive bonds stronger than original mastic.
Removing Mineral Deposits and Soap Scum
Shower tiles accumulate stubborn mineral deposits from hard water and soap scum that require heavy-duty cleaning methods to remove.
Try these techniques for removing deposits:
- Spray tiles with an acidic tile cleaner. White vinegar also works. Let soak 15 minutes before scrubbing.
- Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to deposits and let sit before scrubbing.
- Use a stiff nylon scrub brush or scrubbing pad to agitate the deposits after soaking.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Use a squeegee to remove water and keep tiles dry.
Repeat treatments may be needed for heavily encrusted tiles. Maintain results by squeezing tiles dry after showering to limit mineral residue.
Preventing Mildew on Grout and Tiles
The warm, humid environment in showers promotes mildew growth on tiles and grout. Mildew looks like dark staining and is difficult to remove once established.
Prevent mildew by:
- Using an exhaust fan during showers to vent moisture. Keep humidity low.
- Squeegeeing tiles after showering to dry all surfaces.
- Regularly cleaning tiles and grout with chlorine, oxygen or antimicrobial cleaners.
- Allowing sunlight into the bathroom. Ultraviolet light inhibits mildew growth.
- Sealing grout with a penetrating grout sealer to protect from moisture. Reapply yearly.
- Keeping corners and crevices dry. Caulk cracks that allow water intrusion.
Promptly treat minor mildew stains by scrubbing with bleachy tile cleaners containing chlorine or oxygen bleach.
know the signs of failing grout and tiles
Grout and tiles can deteriorate over time and show signs of damage. Being able to recognize common problems can help you address them promptly through cleaning, repairs or replacement.
Cracking, Pitting and Erosion
Grout can develop hairline cracks, become pitted or start flaking away. Any signs of deterioration indicate it’s time to regrout.
Discoloration and Staining
Grout that becomes stained from dirt, mildew or minerals is aesthetically unappealing and more prone to damage.
Loose or Missing Grout
Grout that is loose, crumbling or missing altogether results in gaps that allow water intrusion behind tiles.
Hollow Tiles
Tap tiles lightly to check for a hollow, “drummy” sound rather than a solid thud. It indicates delaminated or broken bond.
Cracked Tiles
Cracked or broken tiles, including small chips, create vulnerabilities for moisture to penetrate. Damaged tiles should be replaced.
Sagging Tiles
Tiles that appear loose, sagging or falling away from the wall need to be rebonded or replaced before water can damage behind them.
Regular inspections and prompt repairs keeps shower tiles in good condition for the long term.
Evaluate if a complete redo is needed
In some cases, there may come a point where the extent of damage to the shower tiles and grout means a full tear out and replacement. Consider a complete redo if:
- More than 25% of tiles are damaged or missing.
- Grout throughout is crumbling and needs complete replacement.
- Significant leaks, or mold and mildew behind tiles indicates failure of waterproofing.
- Tiles were originally installed improperly without cement backerboard.
- Outdated or unmatched tiles are undesirable aesthetically.
- You want to change the shower layout, size, or appearance significantly.
Gutting a shower to the studs allows correcting any underlying problems before installing new tile properly. Though pricier than spot repairs, a new shower can add value and enjoyment to a home for years.
Tips for Long-Lasting Shower Tile
Implementing good practices for shower tile care and maintenance can extend their lifespan significantly. Recommended tips include:
- Seal grout lines annually with a penetrating sealer to waterproof the grout.
- Use a squeegee on tiles after every shower to eliminate standing water.
- Open windows or use exhaust fans while showering to reduce humidity.
- Clean tiles and grout regularly using scrubbing cleaners to prevent buildup.
- Wipe down tile walls when you get water on them, don’t let it sit.
- Avoid hard blows to tile surfaces from impacts or dropped bottles.
- Install a shower door or curtain to prevent stray water spray on walls.
- Apply tub and tile caulk in corners, along edges, and around fixtures to prevent water entry behind tiles.
With proper installation and care, shower tile can remain in great shape for decades before needing any repairs.
When to Call a Professional
While many shower tile repairs can be DIY projects, some situations call for calling in a tile professional:
- Leaks or moisture issues that require removing tiles to access underlying waterproof membranes.
- Re-tiling an entire shower due to extensive damage or outdated appearance.
- Extensive use of niche tiles, mosaics, or intricate designs.
- Lack of experience working with the specialized tools and materials required.
- Concerns about getting a waterproof, lasting repair on first attempt.
Hiring a qualified tile setter is worth the investment if you want high-quality results on more complex shower remodels. Professionals have expertise in how to properly slope floors, install water barriers and adhere tricky types of tiles.
Conclusion
Damaged shower tiles not only detract from the appearance of a bathroom, but can allow leaks, mold and mildew if left unrepaired. With some basic skills and materials, many common tile issues like re-grouting, replacing broken tiles, and cleaning stains can be DIY projects. Pay attention to signs of deterioration and make repairs promptly before water can damage behind tiles. For large-scale shower remodeling, consider hiring a professional tiler to ensure it’s done right. With regular care and maintenance, quality shower tile installations should last for decades before needing repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean grout haze off tiles?
Use a mixture of warm water and white vinegar to soften grout haze. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then agitate with a stiff nylon brush and rinse clean. Go gently to avoid damaging tile surfaces.
How long does shower tile last?
With proper installation and care, shower tiles typically last 15-30 years before needing replacement. Low quality tile or improper installation can shorten lifespan.
What’s the most waterproof tile for showers?
Porcelain and ceramic tile are very water resistant. Choose tiles rated for use in wet areas. Use special waterproofing membranes behind tiles for added moisture protection.
Can you put new tile over old in a shower?
It’s not recommended. Old tile needs to be removed completely to assess if waterproof membranes are intact before retiling.
How do you regrout a shower without removing old grout?
Use a grout saw to cut out old grout at least 3/8 inch deep. Then apply new grout over the remaining thin bottom layer. Go over it several times to fully pack the grout lines.
Why is my grout cracking in the corners?
Cracked grout in corners indicates movement, often due to lack of an expansion joint. The joint allows tiny movements without cracking rigid grout. Caulking in corners can act as an expansion joint.
Can I use premixed grout for shower walls?
Yes, premixed grout works well for showers as long as it’s formulated to resist mold and mildew. Be sure to seal grout once cured to waterproof it.
