DIY Guide: Diagnosing & Fixing Common Shower Mortar Bed & Grout Leaks.

User Observation & Identified Need: The Reddit user (u/10gobe) mentions a common issue in their shower: "two dark lines of grout that never dry out" on the tile shower floor, even after using a fan. This observation, made while they were already removing grout, points to a frequent and worrying problem for homeowners. It underscores the need for accessible information to help identify the root cause—likely related to a saturated mortar bed, compromised waterproofing liner, or clogged weep holes—and understand the right solutions beyond just replacing the surface grout.

Product/Service Opportunity: Comprehensive DIY Shower Leak Diagnosis & Repair Guide

A highly valuable product would be a detailed information resource, such as an e-book or an extensive online guide (potentially with video modules). This resource would be aimed at homeowners dealing with issues like persistent wet grout or suspected shower leaks.

Specific Content & Features:

• Understanding Shower Construction: Clear explanations with diagrams and photos of typical shower floor construction (pre-slope, liner, weep holes, mortar bed, tile).
• Diagnosing Wet Grout & Leaks: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures homeowners can perform, such as:
  • Identifying different types of shower construction.
  • How to safely perform a basic flood test.
  • Locating and checking weep holes (if accessible).
  • Recognizing signs of a saturated mortar bed versus liner failure.
  • Understanding how persistent wet grout lines point to specific failures.
• Targeted DIY Repair Techniques: Detailed instructions for common, manageable DIY repairs:
  • Proper and complete grout removal techniques.
  • Selecting the right grout types (e.g., epoxy, urethane, high-performance cementitious) for wet areas.
  • Correct re-grouting methods.
  • Effective tile and grout sealing procedures and product recommendations.
  • Minor weep hole clearing (if possible without demolition).
• When to Call a Professional: Critical guidance on recognizing the limits of DIY, identifying signs of major failure (e.g., widespread liner damage, structural issues), and when to consult a qualified tile setter or plumber.
• Troubleshooting Common Issues: Addressing problems like the one the user described—grout lines that never dry out—and explaining the implications.

Expected Benefit: This information resource would empower homeowners to:

• Accurately diagnose problems: Understand the underlying cause of issues like persistently wet grout, rather than just treating symptoms.
• Make informed decisions: Decide whether a DIY repair is feasible or if professional help is necessary, preventing wasted effort on incorrect fixes.
• Prevent further damage: Address moisture issues early and correctly, potentially avoiding more extensive water damage to the subfloor, surrounding framing, and lower ceilings, which can lead to costly repairs and mold growth.
• Save money: By successfully performing appropriate DIY repairs or by being more knowledgeable when hiring and supervising professionals.
• Increase confidence: Provide homeowners with the knowledge to tackle common shower maintenance and repair tasks effectively.