Water damage around a shower usually starts small. These are the signs to look for, so you can deal with them early.
1. Cracked or missing caulk
Look where the tub or shower meets the wall, and around the faucet and drain. Caulk that is cracked, peeling or dark with mold lets water get behind the tile.
2. Loose or cracked tile
Press gently on the tile. A tile that moves, sounds hollow or has a cracked grout line can mean water is getting behind it.
3. Soft spots
A floor or wall that feels soft or spongy near the tub is a sign water has been getting into the material underneath.
4. A musty smell that does not go away
A smell that stays after you clean and run the fan can point to moisture you cannot see.
5. Stains or peeling paint nearby
Check the ceiling below a bathroom and the walls next to the shower for stains, bubbling or peeling paint.
When it’s time to call
A shower or tub surround that is waterproofed correctly before the tile goes up is what keeps water out of the wall. If you see these signs, call us at (651) 238-6751 for a free estimate. Learn more about our bathroom tile and waterproofing and walk-in shower work.
These are general homeowner tips, not professional advice.