How often should you grout your shower?

Author: Augusta Oberbrunner  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

For high-traffic areas, like the main bathroom, you should consider sealing it every six months, while low-traffic areas like the guest bathroom can be resealed every two years. If you are using epoxy grout, it might not be necessary to reseal it as it is highly water-resistant.

How long does grout last in a shower?

How Long Should Grout Last Before Cracking? Non-sanded grout coupled with successful application will help your grout last at least 15 to 20 years. However, this largely depends on how much attention you pay to its maintenance.

How do I know if my shower needs regrouting?

So, how do you know if you need to regrout your shower? As grout ages, it begins to show wear. Whether your shower is looking old and dingy with embedded stains that just won't come out, or if your grout is starting to loosen and crack, The Grout Medic's regrouting service will make your shower look new again.

How often do you need to replace grout in a shower?

Moisture and direct water contact contribute to grout deterioration over time, and eventually, the tiles will crack. This is why you should consider regrouting shower tiles every six months. This is a quick and budget-friendly fix that can restore your bathroom's previous glow immediately.

How often should you seal the grout in your shower?

How Often Should You Seal Grout in a Shower? The rule of thumb is to seal grout annually. To prevent the development of mold and mildew, it is important for you to seal your grout at least once a year. However, one of the best practices for you is to seal grout every six months in high traffic areas.

I Have Been Laying Tiles For 30 Years, But Never Seen Such Technique

Is it worth sealing grout in a shower?

Should you seal grout in a shower? Sealing the grout in your shower is a relatively simple process that will prevent moisture from seeping between and under your tiles. Wet grout is a perfect place for dangerous mould and mildew to breed.

How to tell if grout needs replacing?

How Do I Know if I Need Grout Repair?
  1. The Grout is Cracked or Chipped. If there is a chip or a crack in the grout, even just a small amount of damage, it is crucial that a repair is made as soon as possible. ...
  2. The Grout Lines Appear Thin or are Deteriorating. ...
  3. The Grout was Previously Installed Incorrectly.

Can you put new grout over old grout in a shower?

You can apply new grout right over the top of the old grout. To do this, all you need is a grout removal tool. Use the tool to strike out the old grout, making sure the depth is at least 2mm, which is about the thickness of two dimes stacked one on top of the other.

How to tell if grout is bad?

Check the color and condition in some of the higher-traffic areas of the room. If you notice any chipping or cracking in the grout, it won't respond well to cleaning and will most likely just break apart if you try to clean it with any kind of physical force.

Is it worth regrouting a shower?

Regrouting is one way to whip your tiled surfaces into shape with minimal investment compared to a full-scale tile replacement. It greatly improves the look and function of your tile. It protects your tile edges. It keeps water from seeping behind your shower walls and floors.

What is the average cost of regrouting a shower?

The average cost to regrout a shower ranges between $900 and $2,500. Key factors that affect the cost include the shower's dimensions, the type of grout used—such as high-quality epoxy grout known for its mould and stain resistance—and the labor involved in removing the old grout.

Is it better to regrout or retile?

If the tiles themselves are damaged, retiling is the better option. You might also spring for new tiles as part of a full bathroom remodel. If the tiles are still in good condition, but the grout is chipping or discolored, regrouting is a cost-effective alternative.

What is the best grout for showers?

Epoxy grout: Waterproof, durable, stain- and shrink-resistant. The best grout in shower walls, backsplashes and other surfaces susceptible to moisture or stains. Ideal for use with unglazed and other tiles.

Does a shower need to be dry before regrouting?

Make sure your tiles and grout are as clean as possible, as it will make the next steps much easier. Your tiles must also be completely dry before moving on to the next step, or you can encounter some problems. Consider cleaning your tiles in the evening and closing your bathroom until the following day, if possible.

How do I keep my shower grout from getting dirty?

  1. Use a Squeegee.
  2. Clean the Grout Weekly With Baking Soda or Vinegar.
  3. Reduce Moisture With Fans.
  4. Steam Clean Grout Stains.
  5. Change the Products You Use.
  6. Use Bleach Solution on Persistent Stains.
  7. Seal the Tile Grout.

Does water get behind grout in shower?

It is not unusual for water to penetrate into the grout joints, but perhaps there are excessive voids behind the tiles. Industry standards say you can't have more than 5% voids behind a tile that 5% should be dispersed.

Why do builders not seal grout?

The best answer, in a word, is money. It costs more time and material to seal grout and there is little or no perceived benefit (until, of course, the grout gets stained or starts to crack). A superior product would cost more to purchase and install, again for no perceived benefit over the less costly unsealed grout.

What does grout failure look like?

First, one of the telltale signs of grout failure is when your grout has holes, or is cracked and breaking down. When the grout is deteriorating, this can cause your tiles to become loose or come off entirely. Another indication of grout failure is any sign of mold or mildew.

When to replace grout in shower?

Cracks, staining, and black mold are some of the signs that your old grout may need to be replaced, but with skilled professionals it can often be renewed. However, grout that is beginning to crumble, break or wear down is more likely in need to replacement.

Do grout rakes work?

A dedicated grout rake or a Stanley blade is best for removing existing grout. Grout rakes can be both mechanical and electric. Any electric grout rake is usually 240V and has variable speeds. The Rubi Grout Remover helps to remove grout surrounding ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Do you have to dig out old grout before regrouting?

Before you decide to regrout, evaluate the state of the existing grout. If it's severely damaged, crumbling, or has mold, it may be necessary to remove it entirely.

How long after a shower is grouted can it be used?

You will need to wait another two to three days for the grout sealant to cure. Then, you can finally jump in and take your shower!

What is the life expectancy of grout?

There are a number of factors that can cause cracks and issues in the grout. But if cared for properly, grout can last for up to twenty years.

Can you repair grout without removing old?

You'll do far less work when you apply new grout over old grout and you will use less grout. When selecting the grout you want to use, epoxy grout is a good choice. You don't have to remove all of your old grout to apply the new grout. The new grout can be applied right over the top of the existing grout.

Is it expensive to replace grout?

On average, the cost to regrout a shower is between $600 and $2,500 (or $10 to $25 per square foot). Prices hinge on the size of the shower, the type of grout, and how much old grout needs to be removed.

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