Is My Shower Causing Water Damage?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking shower causing water damage

SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County is frequently called in to Charlotte, NC, homes to help mitigate water and mold damage caused by an unknown leaking shower. So how does water damage happen in the shower?

Grout & Mortar Aren’t Waterproof

People often think that grout and mortar, along with all other types of cement-like materials, are waterproof, but that isn’t the case. The main component of traditional grout and mortar isn’t designed to block water. A safe shower or tub installation includes plastic sheeting or tar paper behind the tiles and over the subfloor. This waterproof material connects to the tub or shower drain, letting any water pass through without reaching the subfloor. If there is no waterproof barrier, every time water touches the tiles, water is likely reaching the subfloor.

Waterproof Barriers Can Degrade

Another problem that can lead to water damage from the shower is the degradation of the waterproof barrier behind the tiles. While these barriers can last for years, they can degrade in certain situations. In some situations, plastic barriers can become brittle, break down, crack, and let water through. The same is true for tar paper barriers.

Cracked Shower Floor

When tile is installed on a shower floor, there should either be a prefabricated shower pan that is made for tile, or a concrete shower pan that is created on-site. These shower pans keep water from reaching the subfloor, but if these pans crack, the water barrier can not hold water.

Water Can Spread

On the surface it might seem like a bathroom leak will only affect the areas where water is visible, but the extent of water damage can be difficult to see. It may seem like a little mold or mildew on the surface of your shower is only a lack of cleaning, but if that mold keeps coming back, it might be a sign of a bigger moisture issue.

What Next?

If you notice buckling floors, a weird smell, or staining, you could have water damage in your bathroom. The best first step to take is calling a plumber. Once the leak is resolved, it’s time to begin the restoration process. Call SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County at (704) 840–6112 day or night for all of your restoration needs.

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