Although cracked grout and loose tiles may seem like a low-level nuisance, these problems can lead to costly water damage in your bathrooms and kitchens. Properties with leaking showers that have been allowed to seep for years often require extensive repairs – once water is behind them, it can soften plasterboard, peel paintwork or loosen adhesive and encourage mould.
Why it happens
Cracking could be due to natural house movement, lack of ventilation or old, dry grout that no longer adheres. The tiles are usually the next to go after that, particularly around showers and baths, as well as sinks and splashbacks. For help from a Handyman Hereford, contact https://oddjoboctopus.co.uk/
Quick checks you can do today
To check if the tiles have come away from the wall, tap-test them; they should sound solid and not move.
Have a closer look: Dark patches, staining, soft spots, or musty smell indicate moisture beneath the tiles.
Inspect the silicone: Water will find any small gaps left in the sealant.
Small repairs that can prevent some damage
Provided the tile is still well-attached, you’ll often be able to rake out (gently) your original cracked grout lines; dry out this area really well, and then re-grout/restore. In baths and shower trays, change the silicone to a non-expanding bathroom-grade mould-resistant sealant.
When to call a handyman
Get it checked if there are multiple loose tiles, the wall feels soft, or you can see mould. By catching it early, you can avoid having to replace boards, re-tile or deal with the headache of untraceable leaks!
