Water getting behind tiles can also damage the tile adhesive, which could cause tiles to come loose, and possibly fall off the wall altogether.
So how can you stop water getting behind tiles? In this handy guide we'll walk you through how to replace your grout and silicone which will seal the tiles without having to remove them. If you've got a serious leak on your hands however, you'll need to remove the tiles and install a waterproofing system before putting them back.
Replace grout
If your grout is visibly cracked or crumbling, it's likely going to be letting water behind your tiles. Even if your grout doesn't appear to be damaged, if it's not water-resistant it could potentially be the source of the leak. Either way, it's probably a good idea to remove and replace – particularly any grout that is visibly damaged.
Grout can be removed by hand either using a manual grout removal tool or power tool with an oscillating action, both of which are widely available from hardware stores. To ensure you don't damage your tiles it's a good idea to tape off the grout lines before you begin the removal process.
Before applying new grout, ensure tiles are firmly adhered and that the gaps in between are clean. A squeegee or rubber float can then be used to apply water-resistant grout in small sections. Ensure a smooth, even finish is created with no gaps which could cause further problems down the line.
Remove excess grout from tile surfaces as soon as possible, and then leave to dry for around half an hour. Finally, a damp emulsifying pad or sponge can be used to clean any remaining grout residue from the tile surface.
We recommend
weberjoint premium grout is not only water-resistant and mould-resistant but has been formulated with PURE CLEAN anti-stain technology, so is ideal for any re-grouting you might need to do. It's available in 18 colours which we've colour matched to our silicone sealant, so you've got plenty of choice when it comes to the finish.
