Travertine Tiles in a shower that leak

[DiverKatyKate]

Hi,

We have travertine tiles on the wall in our shower cubical, we think they have been stuck with just normal adhesive and standard grout, we have noticed that we have a water leak from the shower, but like most water leaks we are unable to find the cause, could this be down to the tiles absorbing water or just a poorly siliconed shower screen and tray? I have read that the tiles should be sealed, can this be done at any point and which is the best sealer and cleaner on the market. Any advise that would help us not get anymore leaks would very welcome!

Thanks

 

[peteablard]

How long have the tiles been up? If it's a new job then you should get the tiler back

 

[Mike]

what's the silicon like around the shower area and are the corners (tile to tile) siliconed or grouted?

 

[DiverKatyKate]

The tiles have been up a few years, we have used them for the past year. The silicone looks ok and we have redone it once and my husband is currently doing it again to see if this will cure it, but we would like to try and ensure that it's water tight so we don't have this problem again

 

[White Room]

Any pics may help..

 

[Time's Ran Out]

Check around the shower dial to see if its been sealed to the tiles or the leak is from pipes behind the tiles.
Is the water visible on a downstairs ceiling or adjacent room wall?
Water will find its way through the slightest of hairline cracks so check every joint.
Do the travertine change colour when wet?
Do post some pictures (Dave loves pictures).

 

[DHTiling]

The tiles have been up a few years, we have used them for the past year. The silicone looks ok and we have redone it once and my husband is currently doing it again to see if this will cure it, but we would like to try and ensure that it's water tight so we don't have this problem again

Is he removing the old silicone first and not just applying over the old..? .. you do need to remove the old and clean the area of residue and make sure it is dry and this includes the void between tile and tray and back to the wall, or the silicone will not adhere properly and it will still leak.. also check the internal corners are siliconed as this too will be a place that water can get in..

 

[Rich]

As has been said, pics and a little bit more info would help. Where is the water showing? Have the internal angles (between tile and tile and tile and shower tray) been grouted, then siliconed?

Also if the trav has been fixed using a non suitable adhesive then they will come loose, the first sign of this is usually small cracks in the grout, this of course can let water through.