Signs That Water May Be Getting Behind Your Shower Tiles

Pay attention to mould around corners, joints, grout lines and areas where sealant has deteriorated. Recurring growth combined with other signs of moisture can indicate that the shower requires a more detailed assessment.

Damaged Silicone and Failed Sealant

Silicone sealant is commonly applied around shower corners, joints, fixtures and other areas where water could potentially pass through a gap. Over time, sealant can shrink, crack, become brittle or separate from the surrounding surface.

When this happens, water may find a pathway behind the tiles or into adjoining areas. Failed sealant should not simply be covered with another layer. The old material generally needs to be removed and the surface prepared properly before fresh sealant is applied.

Regularly checking the condition of silicone around the shower can help homeowners identify potential problems before they become more extensive.

Water Stains Outside the Shower

Water stains can provide an important clue that moisture is travelling beyond the shower area. Staining may appear on nearby walls, ceilings or flooring depending on the layout of the bathroom and the direction in which moisture travels.

A stain does not necessarily mean the shower is responsible. Plumbing leaks, condensation and other moisture sources can produce similar symptoms. However, if the stain appears after shower use or is located directly beside the shower, it should be investigated.

Ignoring recurring water stains can allow an underlying problem to continue unnoticed.

Changes to Bathroom Flooring

The floor surrounding a shower can also show signs of moisture problems. Swelling, staining, soft areas or changes in the appearance of flooring may indicate that water is reaching areas where it should not.

Water can travel through joints and gaps before becoming visible on the surface. This means that damage some distance away from the shower may still be connected to a leak within the shower area.