Shower Floor Repair
Northern Virginia's Experts
Shower Floor Repair Service in Northern Virginia
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Mortar bed shower floors have long been favored for their exceptional durability and reliability in creating a sturdy foundation for tiled shower installations. With their solid construction and ability to support heavy loads, mortar beds have earned a reputation as a tried-and-true method for achieving a robust shower floor. However, like any other construction technique, mortar bed shower floors are not impervious to potential pitfalls.
Why is this occurring?
There are a myriad of reasons that your shower floor is failing, below are just a few.
Improper installation:
If the tiles are not installed correctly, such as inadequate adhesive or improper spacing, it can lead to problems. Insufficient mortar coverage, improper grouting, or inadequate curing time can also contribute to failure.
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Insufficient waterproofing:
Showers are exposed to water and moisture regularly, so proper waterproofing is essential. If the waterproofing membrane or barrier is not installed correctly or is compromised over time, water can penetrate the underlying structure, causing damage to the tiles and subfloor in other areas of the home, such as framing, plywood and drywall.
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Shifting or movement:
Buildings naturally settle and experience slight movements over time. If the shower floor or underlying structure experiences excessive movement or shifting, it can cause stress in the grout between the transition points of the tile fields such as in wall to wall changes in plane and wall to floor changes in plane.
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Inadequate drainage:
Proper drainage is crucial in a shower to ensure that water is effectively directed toward the drain. If the slope of the shower floor is incorrect, or if the drain is not functioning properly, water may accumulate in the mortar bed and cause it to crack and break. This can lead to a proliferation of mold growth.
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Use of inappropriate materials:
Choosing the wrong type of mortar bed setting materials, tile or grout for a shower environment can also contribute to failure. Non-porcelain tiles, for example, are more susceptible to water damage. Similarly, using non-flexible grout in areas prone to movement can lead to cracks.
Lack of maintenance:
Inadequate cleaning and maintenance can accelerate the deterioration of tiled shower floors. Over time, soap scum, mineral deposits, and mold or mildew can build up, compromising the integrity of the tiles and grout.
What are my options?
While every situation is different, and the scope of work can vary between projects, The Grout Genie
has several ways to repair your shower floor. Below are just a few examples.
Epoxy Filler & Epoxy Sealant
Filling voids in grout with epoxy resin and then applying an epoxy color sealant can offer several benefits:
Enhanced durability:
Epoxy resin is known for its exceptional strength and durability. By filling voids or damaged areas in grout, especially in shower floors, with epoxy resin, you ensure that your repair area is not going to fail. The use of standard cementitious based grouts will not survive inside of shower enclosure area due to moisture that has built
up overtime below the surface of the tiles which causes the grout to not cure properly leading to future failure of the grout once again.
Improved water resistance:
Epoxy resin is highly resistant to water and moisture. By filling the voids in grout with epoxy resin, you create a more watertight seal, minimizing the chances of water infiltration and potential damage to the underlying structure. This is particularly beneficial in wet areas such as showers, where water exposure is high.
Ease of cleaning and maintenance:
Applying an epoxy color sealant over the filled grout provides a smooth, uniform surface. This makes the grout lines easier to clean and maintain. The epoxy sealant acts as a barrier, preventing dirt, stains, and grime from penetrating the grout lines, and it can be easily wiped clean.
Aesthetic enhancement:
The epoxy color sealant can transform the appearance of the grout lines. You have the option to choose from a variety of colors, allowing you to customize and rejuvenate the look of your tiled surface. The sealant also helps to even out any color inconsistencies and provides a glossy or satin finish, depending on your preference.
Resistance to stains and chemicals:
Epoxy sealants are typically resistant to stains and chemicals. By applying an epoxy color sealant, you create a protective barrier that prevents the grout from absorbing spills, dirt, or chemicals, making it easier to clean and maintaining its original appearance for a longer time.
Note:
Epoxy resin and epoxy color sealants require proper application techniques and may require professional expertise. Additionally, if the grout issues are a result of underlying structural problems or significant water damage, it is important to address those issues before applying epoxy resin and sealants to ensure a long-lasting solution.
Installing Tile over Tile
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Installing tile over tile in a failing shower floor can offer a few potential benefits, although it is generally not considered the ideal solution for addressing underlying problems. Here are some advantages of this approach:
Cost savings:
Installing new tile directly over existing tile can be less expensive compared to completely removing the old tile and starting from scratch. It eliminates the need for demolition, disposal of debris, and extensive floor preparation.
Time efficiency:
Since there is no need for extensive removal and floor preparation, installing tile over tile can save time, allowing for a quicker installation process. This can be advantageous if you need to restore the shower floor quickly.
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Minimal disruption:
Undertaking a full shower floor replacement can be disruptive, as it often involves removing fixtures, such as the shower base. By installing tile over tile, you minimize the disruption to the rest of the bathroom and avoid potential damage to surrounding areas.
Aesthetics:
If the existing tile is still in relatively good condition and you like its appearance, installing new tile over it can be a way to maintain the aesthetic continuity while addressing any cosmetic issues.
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Note:
Despite these advantages, it's important to note that installing tile over tile does not address any underlying structural or waterproofing problems that may have caused the original tile to fail. It is crucial to identify and address the root cause of the failure, such as leaks, water damage, or a compromised substrate. Installing tile over tile without addressing these issues may only serve as a temporary solution, and the problems could resurface in the future.
Epoxy Terrazzo Overlay
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Epoxy terrazzo overlay is a type of flooring system that involves applying a layer of epoxy resin mixed with decorative aggregates
onto an existing floor surface. It is commonly used to resurface and transform worn-out or outdated concrete floors, but it is also be applied over other suitable substrates such as tile, wood, or terrazzo.
An epoxy terrazzo overlay can be an excellent option in lieu of a tiled shower floor for several reasons:
Seamless and Grout-Free:
Unlike tiled shower floors, an epoxy terrazzo overlay provides a seamless surface without grout lines. Grout lines in traditional tile floors can be prone to staining, mildew growth, cracking grout and difficult to clean. With an epoxy terrazzo overlay, you eliminate these issues as it offers a smooth, continuous surface that is easy to maintain and keep clean.
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Durability:
Epoxy terrazzo overlays are highly durable and resistant to water, certain chemicals, stains, and impacts. They are designed to withstand the daily wear and tear of a shower environment, including exposure to water and soaps. The overlay creates a protective layer over the existing floor, enhancing its strength and longevity.
Customization Options:
Epoxy terrazzo overlays offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to create a unique and personalized shower floor. You can choose from various colors, patterns, and aggregates (such as glass, stone, or seashells) to create a design that suits your aesthetic preferences. The versatility of epoxy terrazzo allows for endless design possibilities.
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Slip Resistance:
Safety is an essential consideration in a shower area, and epoxy terrazzo overlays can provide excellent slip resistance. The surface can be textured or finished with an anti-slip additive to enhance traction and reduce the risk of accidents in wet conditions.
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Cost-Effective:
In terms of cost, epoxy terrazzo overlays can be a more affordable option compared to installing a brand new tiled shower floor. Instead of the labor-intensive process of removing existing tiles and installing new ones, an overlay can be applied directly over the existing floor, saving both time and money.
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Faster Installation:
Installing an epoxy terrazzo overlay is generally quicker than laying a new tiled floor. The overlay can be poured and spread over the existing surface, and it cures relatively fast, allowing you to use the shower sooner.
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Note:
The suitability of an epoxy terrazzo overlay as a shower floor alternative may depend on factors such as the condition of the existing floor, proper surface preparation, and the expertise of the installer. It's advisable to consult with a professional to evaluate your specific situation and determine if an epoxy terrazzo overlay is the right choice for your shower floor.
Ready To Schedule Your
Free Assessment?
We understand that it can be difficult to determine which services you may need for your specific situation. Our highly trained team are here to help. We can evaluate your needs and provide recommendations to restore the beauty of your tile and grout.
Our goal is to provide you with the most effective solutions to meet your needs and ensure your satisfaction.
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