Is your shower starting to look a bit worn out or suffering from discoloured grout lines? Regrouting might be just what you need to bring it back to life.
Think of regrouting as a little TLC for your shower – it’s the secret to keeping your bathroom looking fabulous, running smoothly, and staying safe.
If you’re thinking about regrouting your shower yourself, or bringing in the experts, continue reading for a full breakdown of everything you need to know – from the importance of regrouting, and how to prepare and regrout a shower, to why you should choose AlphaSealed for the highest-quality job imaginable.
Why is regrouting your shower tiles a good idea?
As grout ages, it can start to crack, discolour or wear down, leading to more than just an unsightly appearance. Damaged grout can cause water to seep behind your tiles, giving rise to mould and mildew and risking damage to the underlying structure.
When grout becomes cracked or missing, it can also quickly turn into a hotspot for bacteria and other unwelcome organisms. This doesn’t just make your bathroom look grimy and challenging to clean – it can also pose serious health risks, including respiratory issues, allergies and skin irritation.
Luckily, regrouting addresses all these issues by restoring a solid, water-tight seal between your tiles. Applying fresh grout also gives your bathroom a crisp, updated look that saves you money over time by extending the life of your tiles and avoiding the hassle and expense of a full renovation.
So, if you’re tired of looking at stained, cracked grout, a simple tile and shower regrouting can work wonders, making your shower look brand new and keeping it in excellent shape for years to come!
How to identify if your shower needs regrouting
By catching signs of wear early you can address minor issues before they turn into bigger problems like water damage or mould growth. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Cracked or missing grout
If you notice visible cracks, chips or crumbling grout, these are clear indicators that it’s time to regrout your shower tiles. If left untreated, these can cause water to seep behind your tiles and bring about further damage.
Discolouration or stains
Grout that appears stained, discoloured, or has persistent mould and mildew loses its ability to repel water, putting your bathroom at risk of extensive damage. You can spot these signs by looking for dark patches or spots along your tiles.
Loose tiles
If your tiles feel loose or start to move when you touch them, this is a clear sign of weakened or missing grout, meaning it’s time to regrout your shower tiles.
Water seepage
Are you noticing puddles or damp spots outside your shower area? If so, this means water is seeping through damaged grout, and it’s time for a regrout.
Rough or uneven grout lines
If you slide your hand across your shower tiles, and notice the grout feels rough, uneven or bumpy, this often means your grout is worn down. This makes your grout significantly less effective at protecting your tiles against water penetration.
How to prepare your shower for regrouting
Before starting a regrouting project, it’s important to prepare your shower area to make sure you create the best possible conditions for the new grout to bond effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
- Clear the area
Start by removing all items from the shower, including shower mats, bottles and other accessories. Doing this will give you clear access to the tiles and grout lines. - Apply painters tape
Use painters tape to cover the edges of your bathtub and the base of your shower walls. This helps prevent damage to surfaces and keeps them clean. - Remove old grout
Next, carefully scrape out the old grout with a grout removal tool. Make sure to remove all the old grout from the joints, as any remaining grout can interfere with the new application. - Clean the tiles
Clean the surface of your tiles to remove any residue from the old grout, dirt or soap scum. The best way to do this is by using a tile cleaner or a mixture of water and detergent. Make sure to rinse well and let the tiles completely dry before moving to the next step. - Inspect for damage
If you notice any damaged or loose tiles, be sure to replace or repair them before applying new grout. This is crucial for ensuring that the new grout adheres properly and lasts longer.
How do you regrout a shower?
The thought of regrouting your shower might seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation and the right techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Mix the grout
Mix your grout according to the package instructions, aiming for a smooth, spreadable consistency – think peanut butter! If you’re using powdered grout, just add water in a bucket and stir until it’s well blended and lump-free. - Apply the grout
Use a grout float and apply the grout to the gaps between your tiles. Hold the float at about a 45-degree angle and press the grout firmly into the joints. Be sure to fill all the gaps completely, using a diagonal motion to work the grout into every crevice. - Remove excess grout
After applying the grout, use the edge of the grout float to scrape off excess grout from the tile surface. - Clean the tiles
Dampen a sponge with water and gently wipe the tile surface to remove any remaining grout haze. Rinse the sponge frequently and change the water as needed to keep it clean. - Buff the tiles
Once the grout has started to set but is still soft, use a clean, dry cloth to buff away any remaining grout haze from the tiles, helping it achieve a clean, shiny finish. - Allow the grout to cure
Grout usually takes 24 to 48 hours to cure. During this time, avoid using the shower to ensure the grout sets and forms a strong bond. - Apply grout sealer
Once the grout has fully cured, apply a grout sealer to protect it from moisture and stains. Use a small brush to apply the sealer evenly across the grout lines. - Final clean-up
After the sealer has dried, give your shower a final clean to remove any residue. Replace any items you removed, and enjoy your refreshed and revitalised shower!
Why choose AlphaSealed to regrout your shower?
While DIY regrouting might seem like a simple weekend project, hiring professionals can save you time, stress and potential mistakes.
When it comes to regrouting your shower, AlphaSealed stands out as your go-to experts for a flawless finish and long-lasting results. Here are just a few of the many reasons why choosing AlphaSealed is your best choice:
- Expertise and experience: With years of industry experience, Alpha Sealed’s expert team uses the latest techniques to ensure your shower gets the professional care it deserves. Take a look at our quality work.
- High-quality materials: Alpha Sealed only uses premium-grade grout and sealing products. This commitment to quality means you’ll enjoy a beautifully finished shower that stands the test of time.
- Customised solutions: Alpha Sealed offers personalised regrouting solutions, helping you choose the perfect grout colour and type while addressing your specific needs and concerns.
- Comprehensive service: AlphaSealed provides a full range of services beyond just regrouting. Their expertise extends to tile repair and maintenance, shower sealing, shower leaking repairs, and much more, ensuring that your entire shower area is in flawless condition.
Let us rejuvenate your shower tiles
With the right approach and professional care, you can extend the life of your shower tiles, prevent water damage, and give your shower the fresh, revitalised look it deserves.
If you’re ready to transform your shower, AlphaSealed’s team of experienced experts is here to help. We’ve seen every condition of shower tiles imaginable, so no job is beyond our scope.
With competitive prices, premium materials and a 25-year workmanship warranty, you can rely on AlphaSealed to restore your shower tiles and bring your bathroom to life, so contact us today.
