When it comes to shower tiles, it’s common for issues to arise about the grout. You have to be diligent and make sure it is well-maintained at all costs.
This includes picking up on potential signs where the grout starts coming off or doesn’t look at robust as it needs to.
One problem people often note involves grout washing away in the shower.
If grout is washing away in the shower, this likely is a structural issue where one of the tiles is loose, the grout’s sealant has worn off, or the grout was improperly applied. To fix the issue, replace all loose tiles, dig out the old grout, add new grout, and re-seal it with high-grade grout sealant.
If you don’t use grout sealant in the shower, it will continue to wash away. The waterproof barrier has to be there for the grout to remain stable. You should also only be using waterproof grout.
This one-two punch is important as a safety net for your shower tiles.
Here is a look at what you have to do when the grout is washing away in the shower.
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How To Fix Grout Washing Away In Shower
1. Check For Loose Tiles
If fresh grout is dissolving in the shower, this means you are likely dealing with loose tiles or a structural fault.
Of course, it’s possible you didn’t let the grout settle.
However, the first thing you need to look at will be the tiles. If the shower tiles are not intact or in the right spot, the grout doesn’t matter. It won’t make a difference.
First, start by assessing the structural integrity of each shower tile. Nothing should be out of place, damaged, or wobbly.
This will ensure you know the foundation is in good shape.
After this, you can begin to work on the rest of the setup. This includes testing the shower grout to see whether or not it needs to be replaced.
If you do find loose tiles, replace them.
2. Dig Out Remaining Grout
Let’s assume you don’t have loose tiles.
It’s then time to dig out the remaining grout. This grout is likely too powdery and a lost cause. You should not waste time attempting to save it.
If the grout runs when wet in the shower then it is likely not going to get better. This is due to it not settling.
Your best option is to dig out the old grout and try again.
This will also make sure you do it right the second time around.
3. Use New Waterproof Grout
When you are setting up new grout in the shower, you will want to get it right. This means getting the ratio bang on.
What is the ratio supposed to be?
You want to use a 1:1 ratio. This means one cup of water for each cup of waterproof grout in the shower.
This is the right formulation for the shower grout to settle and dry properly. Otherwise, you are not going to see appropriate results at all.
You also want to take the time to only use waterproof grout. This is a must due to the amount of moisture that is in the bathroom at any given moment.
4. Re-Seal With Waterproof Grout Sealant
You will want to take the time to use a waterproof grout sealant too.
This is a common mistake people make.
If you are not taking the time to re-seal the waterproof grout sealant, it’s not going to last as long as you want it to.
That barrier has to be there.
Always take the time to use a high-grade waterproof grout sealant and then apply it evenly. This is going to help create the type of safety net you want over the long haul.
Final Thoughts
Why is grout washing away in the shower?
Grout is washing away in the shower due to a structural fault with the tiles, too much moisture seeping in, or the wrong type of sealant being used. To fix the issue, check for loose tiles to replace them, dig out the old grout, apply new waterproof grout, and only use waterproof grout sealant.
This is a must due to how moist a shower is.
If you are not using waterproof materials, the grout is going to continue coming out. It does not matter how many times you apply the grout.
Always use quality materials, especially when it comes to something like shower grout. You will want to see good results and that is only going to happen when you are putting in the time to focus on the right materials.
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