How to Fix Leaking Shower without Removing Tiles

Step 4: Dry the Grout & Clean the Tiles

Like the third step, you must allow the grout to dry out. Otherwise, you can’t clean the tiles at this stage and prepare them for the next step of fixing leaking shower without removing tiles.

Thus, wait till the grout solidifies. It will take a while. But you can make drying faster by keeping the shower doors and window open. Or you can use a stand fan.

Once the grout is dry, cleaning won’t require much effort.

Supplies needed:

• Warm water
• Sponge

First, give the shower a good wash with warm water. After that, clear the whole shower using a sponge. It’ll loosen and remove the remaining layer of dust and waste.

And it’ll be easier and more effective if you avoid using a sponge in random motion. The trick is to use it in a circular motion. This way, you are very unlikely to have any space uncleaned or half-cleaned.

Before starting the next step, you must let the shower dry again.

Step 5: Apply Silicone

In this step, you will learn how to seal leaking shower tiles without removing tiles.

You need to seal the tile joints with silicone too. This includes sealing the internal floor as well. Applying silicone can be tricky if you are a beginner.

Naturally, you will find it difficult to keep your hand steady. As a result, the lines will be wiggly. You can use masking tape to avoid wavy lines.

Supplies needed:

• Silicone
• Masking tape
• Silicone wipe

Seal the tiles partially with masking tape. You need to cover the edges of the tiles.

Next, apply silicone across all the lines, following the sides of the masking tape around the joints.

Go a bit slow, or the sealing will be filled with air gaps.

Apply the second layer once you are done applying the first layer. Use a silicone wipe to give the sealing lines a smooth finish.

You can clear and seal the internal floor the same way.

Step 6: Use Clear Waterproofing Sealant

Finally, let the silicone dry. It won’t take long. By pressing with a finger, you can check if it has dried.

This can keep the shower leak and stain-free for as long as 10 years!

So, why not do it? Besides, the step is like an easy wall painting task.

Supplies needed:

• Clear waterproofing sealant
• Safety hand gloves
• Paintbrush
• Paint roller

Putting on the gloves, dunk the paintbrush into the waterproofing sealant. Using the paintbrush apply the sealant all over the walls and floor of your shower.

Next, wait for the sealant to dry.

Use the paint roller to apply the sealer once again.

To avoid unsealed spaces, apply the sealant with two different brushes. Unsealed space will be prone to be stained.

Can You Waterproof without Removing Tiles?

Yes, a surface can be waterproofed without removing the tiles. A tiled surface can be made waterproof using a variety of techniques.

Membranes for waterproofing: These are sheets of material that can be affixed over the tiles already in place. They can be used to create a barrier that stops water from accessing the surface and are attached to the surface using a particular adhesive.

Paint for waterproofing: You can paint over the tiles with specialized paints to make a barrier that is impermeable to water. To guarantee that they offer sufficient protection, these paints are typically applied in many applications.

Grout waterproofing: The grout between the tiles can potentially allow water to seep through. Use waterproof grout or seal the grout lines to stop this from happening.

It is crucial to keep in mind that these techniques might not work for all kinds of tiles or surfaces, and it is always better to seek professional advice before beginning any waterproof operation. 

Final Remarks on Fixing Leaking Shower

There are different methods available to fix a leaking shower without removing tiles. But the one mentioned here is so far the best method. And the method is equally popular for professionals and DIY workers at home.

We hope these instructions help you fix your leaking shower without turning any tiles. However, make sure you handle the issue as early as possible. Or the leak will get worse. Next, you will have to hire a bathroom contractor, which costs you thousands.