Oct

Understanding Common Shower Leaks in Brisbane: Causes and Solutions

A leaking shower might seem minor at first—but in Brisbane’s humid climate, even a slow leak can quickly lead to costly water damage, mould growth, and structural issues. Leaking shower repair is essential in the Brisbane area to prevent structural damage to your house.

We’ve seen it all: cracked tiles, worn grout, and damaged membranes silently causing problems behind the scenes. These leaks can affect not just the bathroom, but also adjacent rooms and ceilings, leading to further complications.

That’s why identifying and repairing shower leaks early is essential for protecting your home, and why professional leaking shower repairs are so important for safeguarding your house.

What Really Causes a Shower to Leak?

Showers in Brisbane homes face years of daily use, temperature changes, and building movement. Over time, the waterproofing system can weaken. Common causes include:

Cracked or loose tiles that allow water to seep behind walls.
Worn or missing grout and silicone seals.
Damaged or aged waterproofing membranes beneath the surface.
Poor installation or movement in the building structure.

Faulty taps and damaged pipes or water pipes can also cause a water leak in bathrooms, leading to shower leaking issues. Cracking in grout or tiles, as well as problems in the shower recess or wall joints, are also common causes. Leakage can occur through cracks in the wall, shower recess, or due to improper plumbing, allowing water to escape and cause damage to wet areas and adjacent rooms.

A water meter can be used to detect hidden leaks in your plumbing system, helping to identify issues with pipes or water pipes behind walls. Flaking paint or damp, wet areas are signs of a leaking shower and may indicate water damage or leakage. These are important signs of a leaking shower that should not be ignored.

Efficient, cost effective solutions and long lasting solutions are available through professional shower repair services. Timely repairs by licensed plumbers can prevent waste and save money by addressing leaks before they cause further damage. A proper repair process ensures the waterproof membrane is fixed and the shower is fully repaired, protecting your bathrooms and providing peace of mind.

Shower Components and Leaks

A well-functioning shower relies on the integrity of its key components—like the shower head, shower screen, shower cubicle, and shower floor. When any of these shower components are neglected, a leaking shower can quickly become a reality. For example, a worn or loose shower screen can allow water to escape onto the bathroom floor, while a faulty shower head may cause water to spray in unintended directions, leading to hidden leaks.

Cracked tiles, missing grout, or loose tiles are common culprits that let water seep behind the shower walls, compromising the waterproofing membrane and causing further damage. The shower base and shower floor are also vulnerable, especially if they were poorly installed or have deteriorated over time. Even small cracks or gaps can allow water to penetrate, resulting in leaks that may not be immediately visible.

Regularly inspecting these shower components for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks is essential. Addressing issues early can prevent the need for major shower repairs and protect your bathroom from water damage. Keeping your shower watertight starts with understanding how each part plays a role in preventing leaks.

Why Professional Shower Leak Repairs Matter

DIY fixes may seem tempting, but they often fail to address the root cause of the leak. At Leaky Showers, our team uses proven, professional sealing systems, an efficient repair process, and cost effective solutions as part of our leaking shower repair services to repair leaking showers without removing tiles. This approach saves time, reduces cost, and provides a long-term fix rather than a quick patch.

Here’s why professional repairs are worth it:

• Expert diagnosis – We pinpoint the exact source of the leak using moisture and pressure testing.
• No tile removal – Our advanced sealing method repairs leaks efficiently without demolition.
• Long-lasting results – We use high-quality sealants designed for Brisbane’s climate.
• Fast turnaround – Most showers are sealed and ready to use within 24–48 hours.
• Guaranteed workmanship – Every job is backed by years of experience and a service warranty.
• Mould prevention – Proper sealing prevents hidden moisture that leads to mould and odours.
• Long lasting solutions and comprehensive shower repair services – Our shower repair services deliver durable, professional results and address all aspects of leaking shower repair.

When handled by professionals, your repaired shower stays watertight and durable for years—saving you from recurring problems.

Get a Free Shower Leak Inspection

Don’t wait until a damp patch turns into a costly repair. Our experts at Leaky Showers service Brisbane, Logan, Redlands, and the Gold Coast, providing free pressure and moisture testing to identify leaks early. Our leaking shower repairs and shower repair services are available throughout the Brisbane area.

We’ll assess your shower, explain what’s happening, and provide the most affordable long-term solution—all without removing a single tile.

Call us today on 0403 558 896 or book your free shower inspection through our website to stop leaks before they spread.

Common Signs You May Have a Shower Leak

Even if you can’t see water dripping, common signs of a leaking shower include flaking paint or wet areas in an adjacent room. These signs often mean there’s trouble behind the tiles:

Water stains on walls or ceilings near the bathroom.
Mould or musty smells.
Soft or swollen skirting boards.
Cracked grout or lifting tiles.
Dampness or wet patches in adjacent rooms.
Flaking or bubbling paint on walls or ceilings.
Unexplained increases in water waste or water bills.

Early detection is key—fixing a small leak now can save thousands later.

Shower Cubicle Maintenance

Keeping your shower cubicle in top condition is one of the best ways to prevent a leaking shower and avoid expensive repairs down the track. Regular maintenance means looking out for early warning signs—like water stains on bathroom walls or floors, which often indicate water leaks behind the scenes. If you notice cracked tiles, missing grout, or old silicone around the shower cubicle, it’s time to take action.

Simple steps like resealing tiles and replacing worn silicone can make a big difference in stopping leaks and reducing the risk of mould buildup. Don’t ignore small issues—what starts as a minor crack or patch of missing grout can quickly lead to further damage and costly repairs if left unchecked.

For peace of mind, consider having a professional plumber inspect your shower cubicle. They can spot hidden leaks, recommend the best maintenance practices, and carry out any necessary repairs to keep your bathroom safe and dry. By staying proactive with your shower cubicle maintenance, you’ll extend the life of your shower and protect your home from water damage.

FAQs

Where is a shower most likely to leak?

Most leaks start at weak points such as tile joints, shower screens, or around the drain. Damaged grout and silicone are the usual culprits.

Leaks can also develop in the shower recess, at wall joints, or due to cracking in the waterproof membrane.

What is the most common cause of a leaking shower?

In Brisbane homes, the main causes are worn grout, cracked tiles, or a failed waterproofing membrane beneath the surface.

Additionally, building movement can cause cracking in grout or tiles, which may lead to leakage and further water damage.

How do I find out where my shower is leaking from?

A moisture or pressure test by a professional is the best way to detect leaks accurately. DIY methods often miss hidden moisture behind tiles. Additionally, checking your water meter can help detect hidden plumbing leaks that may not be visible.

For a thorough inspection and reliable leak detection, it is recommended to consult licensed plumbers with plumbing expertise.

Why is there water coming out of the bottom of my shower?

This usually happens when water seeps through damaged grout or silicone and travels underneath the tiles to the shower base or walls.

Additionally, damaged pipes or water pipes within the walls, ceiling, or floor can also cause water to leak into the ceiling or an adjacent room, leading to hidden water damage.

Final Thoughts

A leaking shower doesn’t fix itself—and leaving it too long only increases damage and costs. With over 17 years of experience repairing leaking showers across Brisbane, Leaky Showers provides fast, affordable, and tile-free repairs that last.

Book your free shower inspection today and protect your home from hidden water damage.

May

Shower Tile Sealer – 5 things you need to know!

Unlocking the secrets to a pristine and long-lasting shower starts with understanding the importance of shower tile sealer. Knowing the ins and outs of shower tile sealer is essential for maintaining the beauty and functionality of your shower space. In this article, we will cover five things you need to know about shower tile sealer. From its benefits and types to application techniques and maintenance tips, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to elevate your shower game and ensure that your tiles remain protected and sealed for years to come.

Here’s what we want you to know when it comes to shower tile sealers:

1. All tiles are not created equal.

It’s a common misconception that tiles are identical in terms of maintenance requirements. In reality, tiles can vary significantly in their composition. In houses across south east Queensland, you’ll find ceramic, composite stone, natural stone, porcelain, and even glass tiles. As you might have guessed, these different types of tiles require different types of tile maintenance and tile sealants.

2. There are different types of shower tile sealer

Before embarking on the task of bathroom resealing, it’s crucial to carefully consider the type of sealant you will use. In general, you have two main options, and it is highly recommended to opt for good quality products whenever possible.

The first type of sealant is topical sealants. These sealants dry on the surface of the tile, creating a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping through. They form a coating that acts as a shield against moisture and liquid penetration.

On the other hand, penetrating sealants employ a different approach. Instead of forming a surface barrier, they penetrate into the pores of the tile. By doing so, they effectively seal the micro-holes and fissures, preventing any liquid from filling them up. This method ensures comprehensive protection against water damage.

When choosing the most suitable sealant for your project, it is important to consider factors such as the type of tile you are working with, its porosity, and the specific requirements of the area being sealed.

3. Tile grout does not last forever

It’s important to dispel the common misconception that tile grout is designed to last indefinitely. While grout can have a long lifespan under ideal conditions, it is not intended to last forever. Traditional grout is typically made of cement and, whether it’s sanded or un-sanded, it possesses a high level of porosity.

Here’s the problem: When you wash or mop the tiled surface, you pick up the surface dirt rather than effectively clearing the pores. Consequently, the grout becomes dirtier and increasingly unappealing. Moreover, the water that penetrates through the pores creates an ideal environment for mould growth, leading to unsanitary conditions. Unfortunately, removing mould without replacing the entire grout is nearly impossible, requiring not only re-grouting but also the removal and potential damage to the beautiful tiles you invested in for your home.

But fear not! By applying a protective shower tile sealant layer, you can extend the lifespan and enhance the appearance of both your grout and tiles.

4. Sealing old grout is possible

While it is optimal to seal grout immediately after tile installation to safeguard your investment and reduce future maintenance, it is never too late to seal old grout and prevent potential damage.

If you are unsure whether the existing tile grout is adequately sealed, perform a simple test to determine if resealing is necessary. Place a few drops of water on the dry grout and observe its behavior. If the water beads up and remains on the surface, the grout is still adequately sealed. However, if the water is absorbed and disappears into the grout, it is time for a reseal!

When working with old grout, there are a few additional steps to consider, namely deep cleaning and repairing. Use an old toothbrush or a grout brush to thoroughly scrub the grout, ensuring a deep clean. Whether you are sealing a tile shower, kitchen backsplash, or bathroom floor, it is crucial to clean the old grout as thoroughly as possible before applying the sealant.

Before treating the grout with a sealant, inspect the grout lines for any cracks or chips. If you find any, repair them by applying touch-up grout and allowing 48 to 72 hours for it to cure before proceeding with the sealing process. In case the grout becomes stained prior to sealing, gently scrub it with a mild bleach solution. However, be cautious not to use anything too abrasive, such as a metal brush, as it could scratch or damage the tiles.

It is important to note that once you seal a tile floor or wall with a stain, there is no way to reverse it, as the stain will be permanently sealed into the tile. Therefore, exercise care and caution during the sealing process to avoid sealing any undesirable stains into your tiles.

5. Sealing grout can be a DIY job (but we can take care of it for you)

Do you need to hire a professional to seal your grout? No, you can seal grout yourself. Although if you’re unsure about the process or don’t have the tools, it’s something we can take care of while carrying out your shower sealing. If you do want to DIY, you’ll need protective gloves, clean dry towels, painter’s tape, and either a foam brush or a grouting sponge.

Begin by taping off surrounding surfaces, such as baseboards or fixtures, to prevent accidental staining
Gradually apply the sealer using the foam brush or sponge. We recommend using a brush or sponge for optimal coverage rather than a spray or roller. Ensure that you coat the grout lines thoroughly, covering the grout joints entirely. If any sealer accidentally gets on the tiles, simply use a damp cloth to swiftly wipe it away.
Allow the first coat of sealer to soak into the grout as per the manufacturer’s instructions before applying multiple coats, if necessary.
Finally, wipe off any excess sealer with a clean dry towel and allow the sealer to cure for up to 48 hours before cleaning or exposing it to moisture.

To test the effectiveness of your sealing job, flick a few drops of water onto the grout line. If the water forms puddles on top of the grout, congratulations! You have successfully sealed your grout on your own.

When it comes to grouting, caulking and shower sealing in Brisbane and surrounds, our team is ready to help. With more than 20 years of experience, you can feel confident in our abilities and expertise. Contact us today!

Oct

The Top 3 Things To Look Out For Before Hiring A Shower Sealer

Maintaining our homes is part of home 0wnership. At times, we need to call in experts to help us with repairs or maintenance jobs that we can’t handle ourselves. When it comes to leaking showers, you need an expert to assist so you can avoid major repairs and mould down the track. With the world at our fingertips, how do you choose the right shower sealer for your job? Follow our tips to ensure your job gets done right.

May

Thinking of Selling Your Home? Read this First!

You have a lot to do once you decide to sell your home. You may start fixing small problems that you’ve neglected for years. If a room of the home is in bad condition, you may renovate it completely in hopes of getting a better deal in the sale. Then there’s the process of selecting a realtor, getting your home listed, and keeping everything in perfect condition for showings.

In the midst of all that, you need to think about your shower. Why your shower? Because there are some things you may not know about Brisbane shower waterproofing that could impact the sale of your home. It may also impact what you look for when purchasing your next home.

Oct

Waterproofing a Shower and why it’s so important

Waterproofing a shower is one of the single most important things that must be done correctly when building, renovating or repairing a shower in your home. When waterproofing showers, you must comply with Australian standards and building codes. This is easier said than done, if you don’t know what to look for the young apprentice of the day may be responsible for waterproofing and then the next day the tiler comes in and tiles over the work so you may not know it’s even a problem till it becomes a problem.

The waterproof membrane stops moisture and water from seeping into the walls or floors. Not having this done by a qualified professional can potentially lead to tens of thousands of dollars in costs later down the line. Not to mention save you the stress of possibly having to rebuild a major part of your home.

The purpose of waterproofing showers

Waterproofing is the process of coating your shower with a waterproof membrane to stop moisture from seeping into the structure of your home.

Essentially, it stops leaks!

You may remember seeing a grey, pink or blue coating of sticky paint during construction or a remodel, this is the membrane.

The waterproof membrane acts as a barrier that sits between the walls and floor of your home and the tiles of your shower or bath. You may not be able to see it once the tiles are on but it forms the most essential part of any shower or bathroom build!

Shower Membrane Waterproofing Regulations

There are many regulations that surround waterproofing your shower; therefore, it is best to have this service performed by a professional. In Queensland, a qualified tradesman who holds a waterproofing license must waterproof your shower. If they do not carry a license they are performing waterproofing services illegally and should not be hired. So, this is an essential question to ask your repairer before they start any job in your home.

The regulations for how much waterproof membrane you need to use in your shower are as follows:

. The whole floor needs to be waterproofed
. The shower walls need to be waterproofed up to a minimum of 1800mm

If you have a shower niche that sits slightly higher than the minimum clearance for shower waterproofing then make sure that it is waterproofed entirely as this is a common area where water can seep into the walls of your home.

The Dangers Of Incorrect Waterproofing

There are many ways that leaks can appear in your shower if the waterproofing is done incorrectly, the shower niche being one major example. A lack of waterproof membrane that is not applied to Australian standards may cause the following:

. Water damage and swelling in walls and floors
. Termites to enter the home
. Tiles to become loose, increasing the risk of more leaks
. Structural damage to the home

All of these issues can arise at any time, even if your shower is brand new. These waterproofing mistakes can cost you tens of thousands of dollars in home repairs, especially if you are unaware of the leak for a long time. Therefore, it is extremely important that you ensure that your shower is waterproofed correctly and that you hire a qualified and skilled professional to carry out the work.

On the QBCC website it states:

Whilst a QBCC waterproofing licence is not required where the value of the work does not exceed $3,300, a person applying, installing or repairing waterproofing including surface preparation, and apply or installing material or systems for preventing moisture penetration less than $3,300 may be required to provide a certificate stating that they are a competent person to undertake the work. A person that holds a waterproofing licence as a contractor would be considered a competent person.

If you find that the waterproof membrane in your shower needs to be repaired we can provide waterproofing services to your shower ensuring it is watertight and not leaking. We are qualified waterproofing technicians and hold all the current QBCC licences to provide you a professional result.

All you have to do is contact us on 13 000 LEAKY, and let us know how we can help.

Feb

What We Do During A Partial Gold Coast Shower Rebuild

This young couple bought their first home at Mermaid Waters in the Gold Coast knowing that the shower was leaking to the garage downstairs. They had been able to negotiate a good price on the property because of the leaking shower so they decided to do a partial Gold Coast shower rebuild which would also remove the shower’s plastic tray, which was looking a bit tired.

With a partial Gold Coast shower rebuild we remove the floor and the first run of wall tiles and wall sheeting to expose the wall studs and ensure they have not been water damaged. Then we repair the floor and walls, waterproof and re-tile. We provide the tiles or in this case the customer provided their own tiles and also ordered a new shower screen to give the bathroom a new look which really complimented the rest of their home.

Feb

Are the leaking showers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast due to the weather?

This year Queensland has experienced an extremely hot and dry summer. The effect which this long hot dry summer has had on homes is easily seen by the contraction or shrinking of buildings and their foundations. This has caused a range of problems in many homes around Brisbane and the Gold Coast. If you take the time to look around your home, it is likely you will see some evidence of this in the form of cracks in wall junctions which are visible. In more severe cases we have seen wall tiles in bathroom walls and floor cracking and start to come away.

This shrinking and moving of homes can be one of the major contributors to the high number of leaking showers all over Brisbane and the Gold Coast this year. We have seen a rise in the waterproofing in showers failing this year due to the hot dry summer.

There is another not so obvious problem which the weather this year has caused in leaking showers. We have also seen a rise in the number of homes affected by termites due to a leaking shower. This we believe is due to the dry weather. If your shower is leaking anywhere in Brisbane or the Gold Coast this year you can be certain that it will attract termites quicker than ever because they are on the hunt, hungry for moist soft timber.

Check your backing walls to the shower and ensure there is no moisture coming through. If your purchasing a new property or have recently purchased a new property ensure the building and pest report has not identified high moisture reading around your wet areas and if they have, do yourself a favour and call someone out to check the shower.

Aug

Is It Better To Repair Or Replace Bathroom Tiles?

Bathroom tiles can suffer significant damage after many years of use. Some of the signs of worn bathroom tiles you will see in your home include visible cracks, chips, stains, broken tiles and grout joints that are damaged. These deteriorated or damaged tiles can become a major issue especially when water leaks through the cracks or chips into your shower walls, floor and other associated bathroom features. Not to mention no one enjoys bathing in a bathroom with damaged tiles!

When making the decision to replace or repair your tiles there are a few things to keep in mind. Although buying new tiles can be expensive the labour involved to repair old tiles, which includes scraping off glue and smoothing edges, could end up just a costly as replacing them. Despite this every case is different. If you only have a few loose tiles that need to be stripped back and reglued repairing them is a very cost-effective solution. On the other hand, if you are renovating your bathroom it is best to replace old tiles while everything else is being replaced too.

Jun

Will All Showers Need To Be Resealed At Some Point?

The shower is an essential part of any home. It is so important that it has become a deal breaker, when purchasing a home, or even when building one.

But like most parts of the home that are subject to continuous usage, showers tend to face wear and tear. Because of this, homeowners will always ask themselves one burning question “Will my showers need to be resealed at some point?” The simple answer to that is yes. Well, this answer is not to make your heart skip or make you feel bad in any way. Typically, all showers would need to be resealed at one point in their life span or the other.

With a shower reseal, with the aid of a professional resealer, the problem can be identified and solved in no time. Have you observed your shower is leaking, or you’ve noticed that the shower base is showing some signs of cracking? Then, getting your hands on a resealing outlet will help tackle your problem.

There are times when like ground movement resulting in weak grout and cracked shower base, might result in a shower leak and not just that, as earlier mentioned, wear and tear of materials due to prolonged use can also cause a leak. In such difficult conditions, you will need to get in touch with a reliable shower resealer to carry out the necessary repairs for you.

A professional resealer will have the required expertise, tools, and equipment to carry out an efficient job for you. Not just that, a professional sealer will know the right sealing product that will be perfect for your shower and all of this will play a prominent role in ensuring that your shower is able to give you great service for a long time. Do you need a shower reseal? Then do not hesitate to get in touch with leakyshower. At leakyshower we guarantee;

Experience

Leaky Showers has been in the business of offering quality resealing services to Australian residents for a long time. We employ up to date resealing techniques and products to ensure we carry out efficient and effective service.

Cost-effectiveness

Whether you are a small time homeowner or a big-time property owner, you want a resealer that works on a particular agreement plan without compromising on the quality of their service. At Leaky Showers we pride ourselves on being cost-effective without compromising on the quality of our delivery.

Quality of work

One key requirement you must look at for before hiring a sealer is the quality of work they render. With the right tools, knowledge, and experience, we have the technical know-how to deliver quality resealing jobs on a continuous basis. It doesn’t matter the setting or shower type; we have what it takes to offer impeccable resealing service to you.

Why you need to reseal your shower on time

Resealing your shower allows you to enjoy your shower benefits and at the same time, help you prevent further damages to your entire building structure. Taking precautionary actions to reseal your shower, will prevent water from leaking into parts of your home, resulting in mild, and severe damages that will lead to costly repairs.