Mould forming at the bottom row of bathroom tiles - need help/advice (with pictures)
Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.42 PM
Hi, thanks for taking the time to read this.
I noticed a row of mould forming at the bottom row of the shower tiles lately, and grouting. See pictures https://ibb.co/ygKTqmW and https://ibb.co/18PmPrP
I am not sure what is the reason for this to know how to resolve it properly. If it is a surface thing (i.e. need to check/redo grouting after cleaning mould), or whether it is something developing behind the tiles which is more sinister.
The silicone was redone around the base of the shower recently in September, and the mould seems to have been more rampant since then, although it could be also due to increased usage.
What is your advice on how best to diagnose the issue here logically to resolve it properly? Any advice for ongoing maintenance would also be helpful: currently I squeegee the shower screens after each use, leaving the door open as well for more ventilation.
Thanks for your help in advance.
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
The spots of mould are purely due to water ingress , this could be worsened by when the silicone was re done the old silicone wasn’t properly removed. I cut out the old silicone with a Stanley knife then use wd40 and a Stanley blade to carefully remove all the old sealant and mould off the grout. if the grout is sound a grout sealer spray can be applied before the new sealant is applied. This new sealant will need at least 24 hrs to cure before the shower is used.
Offcourse this can be happen under tiles... It's normal situation in a lot of houses in UK that is true... You can try regrout this or just clean cloth and spanch or sanding for sand paper 120, after you can use some sealer protective (Ball company). Will be easier to clean later on but you never get it away for ever. Only renovating all batheroom. Enjoy, regards
Water ingress is your answer.
Trapped water or moisture under the silicone area is the cause of your problems here, now this could be down to a few things m- possible leak, water getting under you shower tray or just water sitting under the newly siliconed area but as the grout is getting mould too, you might well have a more sinister cause behind the wall.
If this is a plasterboard wall (cavity wall) You could try drilling a small hole on the other side of the wall and using an inspection camera to check for dampness. But this is only if the area is accessible.
Otherwise a regrout and resilicone of the area by a professional using anti mould good grade silicone would be advised.
