Tiles are strong and aesthetically pleasing, making them the perfect choice for bathroom and kitchen floors. They also have some degree of water resistance, which adds to their appeal. However, water damage can still occur underneath the tiles, leading to structural damage and mold growth. In this blog, we will discuss the major reasons for water damage underneath tiles and see what causes them.
Reasons for Water Damage Underneath Tiles
⇒ Leaks and Other Plumbing Issues
Leakage and other plumbing-related problems are the primary cause of water damage below the tiles. When there is a leak in water lines connecting faucets to the main supply line, water starts pooling below the tiles.
You can identify the source of the leak by observing the area with the most severe water damage and working your way backward toward the source of the leak. Then, you can fix the burst pipe yourself if the solution is simple or hire the experts to fix it.
⇒ Cracked Grout Lines and Tiles
Apart from the leaks, damaged and worn-out grout is another reason for water damage underneath the tiles. When the grout gets damaged, it fails to prevent the moisture from seeping below the tiles. It results in loose and hollow tiles that easily let water seep in.
The best solution for this is to regrout your tiles to prevent the moisture from getting inside, causing damage. If grout is not an issue, the problem can be cracked tiles. In this case, you need to consider tile replacement.
⇒ Poor Waterproofing
A major reason for water getting underneath the tiles is the lack of or improper installation during tile installation. Without proper protection, moisture will get into the flooring and cause issues.
So, you should waterproof your tiles properly by applying a proper waterproofing layer and membrane. It will protect the subfloor from water damage and prevent any long-term issues.
⇒ Blocked Drainage
Drainage lines serve the important function of taking the wastewater out. But when the drains in bathrooms, toilets, or kitchens get clogged, it causes water to accumulate underneath the tiles and poses a problem to the structural integrity.
You should inspect the drainage lines regularly to prevent clogging. It will ensure that the wastewater gets eliminated properly and reduce the chances of water damage underneath tile floors.
⇒ Common Signs of Water Damage Underneath Tiles
Apart from the causes of water damage below the tiles, you should be able to identify the issue to take action. Here are some major signs that there is water damage on your tiled floor.
→ Loose Tiles
Loose tiles are a major sign of water damage, as warped tiles indicate the presence of moisture underneath.
→ Mold Growth
If you notice mold spores between the grout line, it is an indicator of moisture that is unaccounted for.
→ Hollow Sound
Another way to check water damage beneath your tile is to tap them. If there is a hollow sound coming from the tiles, it points towards a water damage problem.
Summing Up
Water damage underneath the tiles can be a result of burst pipes, drainage problems, or due to improper waterproofing. Improper installation of grout also plays a part in causing water damage on tiled surfaces.
