Do you have standing water in your tile shower after every use? This can be caused by many things, from clogged drain pipes to low-grade tile flooring. Standing water takes forever to dry up and makes for an unsightly mess, and it can also present a health hazard or even cause structural damage to your bathroom.
Fortunately, you can take several DIY steps at home that will help get rid of the pesky pool of water before it becomes a bigger problem. Read on to learn how to fix standing water in tile shower with just some simple tools!
Tools You Will Need to Fix Standing Water in Tile Shower
- Bucket
- Screwdriver
- Drain snake or plumbers auger
- Plunger
- Sponge and a rag
Step by Step Guideline on How to Fix Standing Water in Tile Shower
Step 1: Inspect the Drain Pipe
The first step in fixing standing water in your tile shower is to inspect the drain pipe. Check for any clogs or blockages that could be causing the water to back up and become stagnant. If you find any debris, use a plumbers auger or drain snake to clear it out.
Step 2: Clean the Drain Pipe
Once you have cleared out any debris, it is also important to clean the drain pipe. Use a bucket and a sponge to scoop up any dirt or grime that has built up in the pipe. Make sure to remove all of the gunk so water can flow freely through again. Cleaning the drain pipe can help fix standing water in the tile shower.
Step 3: Check the Tile Grout
If your tile grout is cracked or crumbling, it can also cause standing water in your shower. Make sure to check the grout for any possible damage that could be causing an issue and replace it if needed. Tile grout repair is a relatively easy fix and can make all the difference in removing standing water.
Step 4: Use a Plunger
If all else fails, using a plunger is an effective way to unclog any stubborn clogs in the drain. Use a rubber or bellow-style plunger to cover the entire drainage hole before pushing down on it. Do this a few times to break up the clog and eliminate all the standing water in your tile shower. While using a plunger is an effective way to solve the issue, it can also be quite messy, so make sure you have a bucket and a rag nearby.
Step 5: Test It Out
Finally, test your shower once more to see if the standing water has disappeared. If not, it may be time to call a professional plumber who can inspect the issue and ensure your tile shower is up to code again.
With these simple steps, you can easily get rid of standing water in your tile shower without needing to call a plumber. Just remember to take the necessary precautions when dealing with plumbing and to use the right tools for the job. Good luck!
Some Other Tips and Tricks About Fixing Standing Water in Tile Shower
1. Make sure to use the correct drain cleaner when dealing with a clog.
2. Check for any cracks in the tile itself, as this could also cause standing water.
3. If you have a shower curtain, ensure it does not block the drainage hole or create an air pocket that prevents water from flowing freely.
4. If you have a wet-room style design, ensure the grout lines are properly sealed to prevent water seepage.
5. Invest in a squeegee and shower mat to help remove the excess water quickly after each use.
6. Don’t forget to clean your drain pipes regularly with a sponge and some detergent to prevent future clogs.
7. Finally, if all else fails, it is best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and help you resolve any underlying issues.
Following these steps and tips will help you get rid of standing water in your tile shower quickly and easily. And remember, if you do experience any problems along the way, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.
Things to Remember While Fixing Standing Water in Tile Shower
1. Prioritize Safety:
When dealing with standing water in a tiled shower, ensure that you and everyone else in the area are kept safe from any potential electrical hazards. Make sure to turn off the power supply to the bathroom before starting any work.
2. Identify the Source of Water Leakage:
Before beginning any repair work, it is important to identify the source of the water leakage. Check for cracked tiles as well as loose or missing grout around the edges of tiles and caulk along the floor and walls around your shower.
3. Drainage System:
If there are problems with your drainage system, such as a clogged drain or a broken pipe, this must be addressed first. Make sure to clear any blockages that are preventing water from draining properly and repair any broken pipes before continuing with the rest of your repair work.
4. Re-Caulk:
If there is loose or missing grout or caulk around your tile shower, it is important to re-caulk and re-grout to prevent further water leakage. Be sure to use a waterproof sealant that is designed for marine-grade applications.
5. Re-seal the Tiles:
If your tiles are damaged or cracked, it may be necessary to replace them entirely. If this is not possible, you can use a waterproof sealant to re-seal the tiles in order to prevent further water leakage. Allow the sealant to dry before continuing with the repair work.
6. Test for Leaks:
After completing all of your repairs, testing for any remaining leaks or standing water is important. Turn the power back on and run a test shower to ensure no water leaks. If there are any remaining leaks, take the necessary steps to fix them before using your tiled shower again.
By remembering this advice, you can ensure that your tile shower is free of standing water and other issues. Taking the time to make repairs and test for leaks will save you time and money in the long run. With a little bit of care and attention, your tiled shower will be up and running in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Ensure That My Drainage System is Right or Wrong?
The best way to determine if your drainage system works properly is to run a test shower. If water does not drain quickly or completely, you may have a clogged or broken pipe that must be addressed.
What Kind of Sealant Should I Use for Re-Sealing Tiles?
For re-sealing tiles, it is best to use a waterproof sealant that is designed for marine-grade applications. This will ensure that your tiles are properly sealed and protected against water damage.
Can I Do the Repair Work Myself?
Yes, many of the steps involved in fixing standing water in a tile shower can be done yourself. However, you may want to consult with a professional if you are unsure of any of the repairs. It is important to ensure that all repairs are done correctly so as not to cause further damage.
What Should I Do If My Tile Shower Is Not Level?
If your tile shower is not level, it can cause water to pool and create standing water issues. To fix this issue, use a leveling tool or spacer to make sure that the tiles are even and level. This will help prevent water from pooling in one area and ensure your shower functions properly.
Do I Need to Use a Special Cleaner for My Tiles?
Yes, it is important to use the right cleaner for your tiles. A non-abrasive cleaner is best for cleaning tile showers as it won’t damage the grout or sealant. Additionally, you may want to consider using a waterproof sealant for your tile shower after cleaning to protect it.
Do I Need a Professional for More Severe Standing Water Issues?
Yes, if you are dealing with more severe standing water issues, it is best to contact a professional plumber. They will have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix your issue quickly and effectively.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have discussed the easy way on how to fix standing water in tile shower. It’s important to remember not to let standing water continue over long periods of time, as it can lead to costly repairs or replacements. Taking care of the problem before it gets worse will save you time and money in the long run. Replacing or adding caulking and grout is the main step to take when you notice standing water in your tile shower.
Be sure to select a sealant that is moisture-resistant and of high quality. Depending on the severity of the situation, consider installing a weep system at each body jet location for more effective drainage performance. With these solutions put into action, your tile shower will be up and running once again with no more worries about standing water getting trapped in your tile walls!
