Shower Regrouting Done Right: Expert Advice on Finding the Best Regrouting Company
After more than two decades in the shower repair and tile regrouting industry, I have seen every type of leaking shower problem. Cracked grout lines, stained joints, loose tiles and even water damage spreading into adjoining rooms. Most of these issues start small but turn into expensive repairs when ignored. If you are starting to notice signs that your shower might be leaking, now is the time to take action. The good news is that in most cases a complete renovation is not needed. Professional shower regrouting can restore your shower, protect your home, and save you thousands of dollars.
The challenge for most homeowners is knowing which company to trust. With so many businesses advertising shower regrouting services, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Add in the confusing choice between standard grout and epoxy grout, and it is no wonder people put repairs off until the damage gets worse. Let me guide you through what really matters, what to watch out for, and how to make sure you hire a company that delivers long lasting results.
Why Showers Start Leaking
Tiles themselves are usually not the problem. It is the grout and sealants that break down over time. Standard cement-based grout is porous. It absorbs moisture, discolours easily, and eventually cracks. Once that happens, water seeps behind the tiles and slowly damages the waterproofing membrane or even the structure of the wall.
In the early stages you might only notice mould stains or a musty smell. Left untreated, the problem can escalate into swollen skirting boards, peeling paint on nearby walls, or even leaks appearing in the ceiling below. That is why the grout is the first thing a professional shower regrouting company will inspect.
The Limitations of Standard Grout
Traditional grout has been used in bathrooms for decades, but its weaknesses are well known to anyone who has been in the trade for long. It is cheap and easy to work with, which is why some companies still use it. The problem is that it simply does not last. Even when sealed, cement-based grout is prone to staining, shrinking, and cracking.
I have lost count of how many jobs I have attended where the homeowner had their shower regrouted only a few years earlier, yet the grout was already crumbling. Often these customers had paid good money for what they thought was a long-term fix, only to find themselves back at square one. This is one of the biggest traps people fall into when choosing a shower regrouting company.
Why Epoxy Grout is the Best Solution
Epoxy grout has completely changed the shower regrouting industry. Unlike cement grout, epoxy is non-porous, stain resistant, and far stronger. It does not absorb water, which means it prevents leaks at the source. Once it sets, it forms a solid barrier that will not shrink or crack under normal bathroom conditions.
From my experience, a shower regrouted with epoxy will outlast one with standard grout many times over. It is more resistant to chemicals, which makes cleaning easier, and it keeps its appearance without yellowing or staining. The extra durability also means you will not need to redo the job in a few years. That is why reputable companies that care about their customers only use epoxy.
The upfront cost of epoxy grout may be slightly higher, but when you look at the long-term picture, it is by far the more economical choice. A shower properly regrouted with epoxy should last for decades without leaking.
How to Recognise a Reputable Shower Regrouting Company
The most important step in solving your leaking shower problem is choosing the right company. In my 20+ years, I have seen excellent tradespeople who take pride in their work, and I have seen others who cut corners. The difference shows in the results.
A professional shower regrouting company will start by inspecting your shower thoroughly. They should explain what has caused the issue, what the repair involves, and why epoxy is the best option. They will remove all the old grout rather than simply covering over it, which is a common shortcut that never lasts.
Reputable companies are also transparent about their pricing. They will give you a clear quote upfront without hidden extras. If a company tries to sell you on standard grout to save money, that is a red flag. A true professional knows epoxy is the only reliable long-term choice.
Alpha Sealed WA is Perth’s most reputable shower regrouting company, who only use export grout and has a five-star rating.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
When speaking with a potential company, do not be afraid to ask questions. An experienced tradesperson will welcome them. Ask how long they have been in business, what type of grout they use, and whether they guarantee their work. Ask to see examples of past jobs or customer testimonials.
If their answers are vague or if they push you toward the cheapest option, keep looking. The best companies are proud of their work and happy to explain why epoxy regrouting is worth the investment.
The Process of Epoxy Regrouting
Understanding what happens during the job can give you peace of mind. A proper epoxy regrouting process involves removing all old grout and cleaning the tile joints thoroughly. Any damaged silicone seals are also replaced. The epoxy grout is then carefully applied into the joints and smoothed for a clean finish.
Once set, the shower looks brand new and is completely sealed against water leaks. A skilled tradesperson can usually complete the job in a day, and you will often be able to use your shower again within 24 hours.
The Cost of Getting it Done Right
Many homeowners worry about the cost of shower regrouting, but when compared with the expense of a full bathroom renovation or repairing water damage, epoxy regrouting is excellent value. Prices can vary depending on the size of your shower and the condition of the tiles, but what matters most is not finding the cheapest option.
Instead, focus on finding a company that uses epoxy and guarantees their work. A properly regrouted shower is an investment that pays off by protecting your home for years to come.
The Biggest Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake I see is people choosing the cheapest quote and ending up with standard grout. Within a few years they are back to square one. Another mistake is trying a quick DIY fix with grout pens or sealant products from the hardware store. These might hide the problem for a short time, but they never stop the leaks.
Trusting an experienced professional who works exclusively with epoxy is the only way to get a permanent solution.
Final Thoughts from a Regrouting Expert
After 20 years in this industry I can confidently say that epoxy regrouting is the only long-term answer for a leaking shower. Standard grout belongs in the past. If you have started to notice stains, mould, or water damage near your bathroom, do not delay. The sooner you act, the easier and cheaper it is to fix.
Take your time to find a reputable shower regrouting company with proven experience and a commitment to using epoxy. Ask questions, check their work, and remember that quality matters more than saving a few dollars upfront. Done properly, your shower will be watertight, easy to clean, and looking new for decades.
Shower regrouting is not just a cosmetic improvement. It is protection for your home, peace of mind for your family, and a smart investment that will pay off for years to come.
