BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS MELBOURNE
Frequently Asked Questions
COMMON CAUSES OF BALCONY AND SHOWER LEAKS
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
Why is my shower or balcony leaking?
Leaking showers and balconies are most often caused by failures in the waterproofing system, but plumbing issues must be ruled out first.
Step 1: Check for plumbing issues
The first thing to eliminate is any plumbing-related problems, such as cracks in drain pipes, leaking water supply pipes, or faulty shower mixer valves. We strongly recommend engaging a qualified plumber to inspect and confirm that the leak is not coming from the plumbing.
If no plumbing issues are found, the leak is almost always due to a failure in the waterproofing system.
Common causes include:
- Cracked, missing, or porous grout in the shower or balcony floor
- Deteriorated, cracked, or missing sealants around edges, corners, wall junctions, and penetrations (e.g. taps, drains, shower screens)
- Poor original installation of grout or sealants
- Degradation or damage to the waterproofing membrane beneath the tiles
Water can travel through these defects, bypass the waterproofing membrane, and cause damage underneath — even if the leak only appears on the bathroom floor away from the shower itself. Moisture can migrate under the tiles and emerge some distance away.
Important:
If you notice mould, water stains on the floor or ceiling, cracked or missing grout, or failing sealants in your shower enclosure or on your balcony it is essential to have these repairs carried out as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent extensive damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and the building structure, and may avoid the need for a costly full rebuild of these structures.
Why does mould keep forming in my shower, and will an extractor fan help?
If mould is appearing inside the shower enclosure, the primary cause is often deteriorated, cracked, or porous grout and sealants that trap and hold water for long periods.
Replacing the grout and sealants through professional regrouting is usually the most effective first step. This stops moisture from sitting in the joints and prevents water ingress that leads to ongoing mould growth.
However, inadequate ventilation can also play a major role — especially if mould is forming on walls, ceilings, or other areas of the bathroom. In these cases, installing a quality extractor fan is highly recommended, as it removes excess moist air, significantly reduces humidity levels, and helps prevent mould throughout the bathroom.
Recommendation:
Contact us to have your deteriorated grout and sealants professionally regrouted. Once the regrouting is complete, ensure proper ventilation — either naturally or by installing an extractor fan — for long-term mould prevention.
How do I find the source of a balcony or shower leak?
For complex or hard-to-find leaks, we recommend engaging a professional leak detection company that uses specialised equipment such as thermal imaging, dye testing, or pressure testing.
As a homeowner, you can perform two simple tests yourself to help determine whether the leak is coming from the waste drain pipe or from the tiled surface (grout and waterproofing membrane).
Important Note:
These basic tests help identify leaks from the drain pipe or the tiled surface. They do not detect leaks from main water supply pipes, wall grout, shower niches, or screens. For those issues, professional leak detection is usually required.
1. Waste Drain Pipe Test
Remove the waste grate from the shower or balcony drain (usually by twisting it anti-clockwise with a screwdriver).
If you have a hose:
Direct the hose into the drain hole and run water for several minutes.
If you don’t have a hose:
Fill 2-litre bottles with water and carefully pour them directly into the drain hole (avoid flooding the surrounding tiles). Repeat several times to simulate normal use. Check the ceiling and walls in the room below for any signs of dripping or damp patches.
If water appears below, the waste drain pipe is likely cracked or leaking — contact a plumber immediately.
If no water appears, proceed to the flood test.
2. Flood Test (Surface Test)
Block the drain grate completely using a large mug, plug, or similar item.
Pour water generously over the tiled surface (using a bucket or tap) and let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
Check the ceiling and walls directly below for any dripping, damp patches, or staining.
If water appears below during this test, the leak is most likely coming from cracked grout, failed sealants, or the waterproofing membrane beneath the tiles.
Next Steps
Once you’ve confirmed there is a leak, feel free to send us any photos or inspection reports. We can then assess the best way to permanently repair your balcony or shower leak with no tile removal where possible.
EPOXY RE-GROUTING
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
What is Epoxy Grout?
Do you use branded, high-quality professional grade materials?
We never use budget or private-label products. As a point of difference from many other companies, we only use premium, proven materials from globally recognised leaders in the industry — Mapei and Ardex. These brands have over 85 years of combined research, development, and expertise in formulating high-performance adhesives, sealants, and waterproofing systems.
Both companies provide an array of adhesives, sealants, and waterproofing systems including premium epoxy grouts — namely Mapei Kerapoxy and Ardex EG 15 (100% epoxy grout) — two of the most trusted and technically advanced epoxy grouts available in Australia.
We offer both high-quality cement-based grouts and premium epoxy grouts from these reputable brands.
Contact us for a quality regrouting job using only premium brand-name materials.
Why Choose Epoxy Grouting?
Epoxy grouting offers several key advantages over traditional cement-based grout, especially in wet or high-traffic areas:
- Waterproof Protection
Epoxy grout is non-porous, preventing water from penetrating behind tiles. This makes it essential for moisture-prone areas such as showers and balconies. - Mould & Stain Resistant
Because it doesn’t absorb water or contaminants, epoxy grout resists mould, mildew, and staining, keeping surfaces cleaner and more hygienic for longer. - High Durability
Epoxy grout is extremely strong yet flexible, making it highly resistant to cracking, shrinking, and long-term deterioration. - Low Maintenance
Unlike traditional grout, epoxy does not require sealing and is very easy to clean, significantly reducing ongoing maintenance. - Ideal for Leak Repairs
In many cases, failed or deteriorated grout is the main cause of leaks. Re-grouting with epoxy can effectively restore waterproof integrity without the need for full tile removal.
Is Epoxy Grouting Suitable for Balconies?
Outdoor tiled areas are constantly exposed to rain, temperature changes, and structural movement. Epoxy grout provides a flexible, waterproof solution that helps protect against water ingress and long-term structural damages.
Our Epoxy Re-Grouting Process:
- Removal of existing deteriorated grout
- Thorough cleaning and preparation of tile joints
- Application of high-performance 2-part epoxy grout
- Finishing and detailing for a clean, uniform appearance
Is Epoxy Grouting Suitable for Showers?
When Should You Consider Epoxy Re-Grouting?
You should consider epoxy re-grouting if you notice any of the following issues:
- Cracked, missing, or deteriorated grout
- Persistent leaks in showers or balconies
- Mould that keeps returning despite regular cleaning
- Tiles that feel loose due to water damage
- Desire to upgrade to a longer-lasting waterproof solution
A Long-Term Solution
Epoxy re-grouting is a smart investment in durability and peace of mind. It not only improves the appearance of your tiled areas but also provides superior protection against water damage, helping to extend the life of your shower or balcony.
Before slider showing cracked damaged grout / After showing repair
Can you re-grout the shower base with epoxy grout and the walls with normal grout?
Yes, we can do a mixed grout approach — using epoxy grout on the shower base and standard cement-based grout on the walls.
This is a popular option for customers looking to keep costs down while still getting the best protection where it matters most. The shower base receives the heaviest direct water exposure and standing water, so epoxy grout on the floor is highly recommended as it provides superior waterproofing and durability. The walls generally receive less intense water exposure, so normal grout is often sufficient in those areas.
Important Note:
If a leak detection test has shown that water is penetrating through the wall grout (causing leaks behind the tiles), we would strongly recommend using epoxy grout on the walls as well for proper long-term waterproofing. However, if there is no active leak from the wall grout and you simply want to refresh the appearance for maintenance, then standard grout on the walls is perfectly fine.
We’ll always give you honest advice based on the condition of your shower.
BALCONY & SHOWER REPAIR METHODS
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
Can you repair balcony or shower leaks without removing tiles?
Yes. This is one of our specialties in balcony shower repairs Melbourne. We use advanced epoxy re-grouting and high-performance membranes to provide permanent solutions without the mess and cost of full tile removal. Note: There are times when tiles do need to be removed, such as loose or drummy tiles, cracked tiles etc.
Can you tile over existing tiles (tile overlay) instead of removing them?
However, a tile overlay is not always possible. It depends on the specific conditions of your balcony or shower:
- For balconies: It is usually not suitable if the door and window frames sit flush with the current balcony level, as the new tiles would raise the floor height above the door and window frames.
- For shower bases: It is generally only feasible where there is a hob or step-down into the shower. It is usually not suitable for modern flush-level designs where the bathroom floor and shower floor are at the same level.
For examples of our tile overlay work on balconies, please see our Tile Overlay Portfolio.
We always assess the site thoroughly and will honestly recommend the best long-term solution — whether that’s a tile overlay (when suitable), a full regrout or if tile removal is necessary.
Should I attempt DIY balcony shower repairs?
We strongly advise against attempting DIY balcony shower repairs. While minor cosmetic fixes might seem simple, properly repairing a leaking balcony or shower requires specialised skills and tools.
Our technicians use professional equipment to carefully remove grout without damaging the existing tiles — a task that takes many years of experience and skill to do correctly.
DIY attempts often result in temporary fixes that can trap moisture behind the tiles, accelerate membrane failure, or cause even bigger and more expensive damage later.
Professional balcony shower repairs using the correct materials and proper surface preparation usually save you money in the long run by providing a permanent solution and preventing structural issues.
Important Note:
Epoxy grouts are technically demanding to install. They set quickly and require skilled, precise application and fast cleanup. Incorrect installation can leave haze or sticky residue on tiles. For the best results and a clean, professional finish, epoxy grout should always be installed by experienced professionals.
Do you only re-grout showers and balconies, or do you also work on other areas?
No, we’re not limited to just showers and balconies. We regularly re-grout and reseal many other wet and dry areas, including:
- Bathrooms (walls and floors)
- Toilets
- Kitchens
- Laundries
Whether it’s for maintenance, upgrading to epoxy grout, or fixing staining and mould issues, we can help refresh and waterproof these areas using the same high-quality materials and professional finish.
If you have another area that needs re-grouting or resealing, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to assess and provide advice.
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS – Service Areas, Timeframes & Costs
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
Which suburbs do you cover for balcony shower repairs?
We service all of inner and greater Melbourne, including Bentleigh, Brighton, Cheltenham, Collingwood, Elwood, Fitzroy, Hawthorn, Malvern, North Melbourne, Preston, Richmond, South Yarra, St Kilda, and surrounding suburbs. Not sure if we service your area? Call us.
Can I send photos to you to obtain a quote on work required?
You’re welcome to send us clear photos of your balcony or shower along with a brief description of the issue. You can also include any plumbing or leak detection reports to help us assess the work required.
Send them via our contact form or email. We’ll review everything and provide a cost estimate for the repair work we can provide.
How long does a balcony or shower leak repair take?
Most jobs are completed in a single visit, usually within 1–2 days depending on the size of the area and extent of the damage. We aim for minimal disruption to your home or tenancy.
How much does balcony shower repairs cost in Melbourne?
Costs vary depending on the size of the area and severity of the leak. We offer free, no-obligation site inspections and quotes. Our no-tile-removal methods are usually significantly more affordable than traditional full-removal and balcony rebuilds. We also offer a tile over solution if and when suited, this is determined by the condition and integrity of the existing tiles.
Who is responsible for the costs of balcony repairs in an apartment?
In most Melbourne apartments (strata title), the lot owner (you) is usually responsible for the costs of balcony repairs.The waterproofing membrane and the tiles/grout on your balcony are typically considered your responsibility, even though the structural concrete slab beneath may be common property. This means that if the leak is coming from your balcony, you will generally bear the cost of the repair work.
PEDESTAL WATERPROOFING
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
What is a pedestal system or pod and paver system on a balcony?
A pedestal system (also called a pod and paver system) is a modern raised flooring method used on many Melbourne balconies. It consists of adjustable plastic or concrete pedestals (pods) placed directly on the concrete slab.
Pavers or tiles are then laid on top of these pedestals. This design creates a small cavity between the pavers and the waterproofing membrane, allowing water to drain freely underneath and preventing ponding on the surface. It also makes the balcony easier to level and provides better access for maintenance.
While the system works well when properly installed, the waterproofing membrane underneath the pedestals is often the weak point and can fail over time due to movement, UV exposure, or aging — which is why we specialise in pedestal waterproofing as part of our balcony shower repairs service.
What is pedestal or pod and paver waterproofing?
The waterproofing membrane is the critical waterproof layer applied directly onto the concrete slab beneath the pedestals. It is a flexible, liquid-applied coating (usually polyurethane or cementitious) that prevents water from penetrating into the concrete and leaking into the rooms or apartments below.
Over time, this membrane can crack, degrade, or fail due to building movement, UV exposure, or age. When it fails, water gets trapped under the pavers and causes leaks.
How do you perform pedestal waterproofing?
We carefully remove all pavers and pedestals in sequence, remove the old degraded waterproofing membrane, prepare the concrete surface, apply a new high-quality waterproof membrane, then reinstall every pedestal and paver back into its exact original position to maintain the correct floor level and fall.
Do you supply the pedestals or pavers?
No. We specialise only in the waterproofing work. During balcony shower repairs we remove your existing pavers and pedestals, complete the membrane replacement, and then reinstall everything exactly as it was.
What warranty do you offer on pedestal waterproofing?
We provide a full 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials for all pedestal waterproofing as part of our balcony shower repairs service.
WARRANTY & QUALITY
BALCONY SHOWER REPAIRS FAQ
What warranty do you provide?
Do you have any before and after photos of your work?
Yes. You can view some of our before and after photos of our professional balcony and shower leak repairs HERE. Or more of our work in our Portfolio/Gallery.
Before slider showing cracked damaged grout / After showing repair


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