Cracked grout, loose tile, leaks, mildew, slow drains, low pressure and temperature swings: what causes each and how to fix them.
Most shower problems have a cause that is not where the symptom shows up. Cracked grout and loose tile can mean movement or water behind the wall. A leak that stains a ceiling below may start at a drain, a pan, a valve or a hairline crack. Mildew means moisture that is not drying, from poor ventilation, failed caulk or a slow drain. A slow drain is usually hair and soap, while low pressure may be a clogged showerhead, a failing cartridge or a supply problem. Temperature swings come from valves that do not balance pressure.
Fixing the symptom without the cause brings the problem back. Re-caulking over a leak hides it. Regrouting over a failed pan does not stop water. A proper diagnosis tests each possibility: moisture readings, flood tests of the pan, spray tests of walls and doors and a look at the valve and drain. Some causes need a plumber or a mold specialist, and we say so plainly. In Nashville, where humidity and older construction combine, a quick, honest diagnosis can save a lot of time and money.
Movement or water behind the wall.
Failed mortar or moisture.
Drain, pan, valve or tile joints.
Moisture that does not dry.
Hair and soap or a deeper clog.
A valve that does not balance pressure.
Shower Tile InstallationTile for shower walls, ceilings, niches and benches, set on a flat, waterproofed surface with clean lines and…Explore 
Grout and Caulk ReplacementRemove failed caulk and grout and replace it with fresh, properly matched material to stop leaks and mildew.Explore 
Sliding Shower Door InstallationBypass sliding doors for tubs and wide openings, with smooth rollers, clean tracks and doors that never swing…Explore 
Shower WaterproofingComplete waterproofing systems for shower floors, walls, niches, benches and curbs, built before any tile goes on.Explore 
Water-Damaged Wall and Subfloor RepairReplace soft, stained or rotted wall board, framing and subfloor around showers and tubs, then rebuild with waterproof…Explore Check problems, pick a door or ballpark a budget.
Shower Problem Checker: What Is Wrong?Pick what you see in a shower, tub or ceiling to get likely causes, what to do first and the service page that fits.Try it 
Shower Door Style PickerAnswer a few questions about your opening, budget and style to see which shower door type usually fits best.Try it 
Shower Remodel Budget PlannerPick a shower, tub or bath job, set the quantity and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for your project.Try it The source could be the drain, pan, valve or tile joints. A test of each part finds the cause.
Only if the caulk was the source. Caulk over a leak hides it and the damage grows.
If supply pipes or the drain line inside the wall are leaking, a plumber is needed.
Topic guideShower Types and MaterialsTile, acrylic, fiberglass and solid-surface showers compared for cost, upkeep, durability, look and installation time.Learn more 
Topic guideShower Pan and Base TypesPreformed acrylic bases, foam trays, mortar pans and curbless systems compared for strength, slope, drain options and installation.Learn more 
Topic guideShower Tile MaterialsPorcelain, ceramic, natural stone, glass and large-format slabs compared for grip, upkeep, durability and style.Learn more 
Topic guideShower Waterproofing MethodsSheet membranes, liquid membranes and foam board systems compared for how they work, how they are installed and…Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will measure, inspect and give you a clear written estimate.
