Noticed a leak in your shower and unsure whether you need to regrout, reseal — or both? You’re not alone. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they solve very different problems. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and further water damage.
Here’s a breakdown of what each involves, when to use them, and how to figure out which is right for your shower.
What is regrouting?
Regrouting a shower involves removing old, cracked, or discoloured grout from between your tiles and replacing it with fresh, waterproof grout.
Best for:
● Fixing leaks caused by cracked or missing grout
● Refreshing the look of your shower
● Preventing water from seeping behind tiles
Bonus:
It often solves the root cause of leaks—especially in older showers where grout has broken down over time.
What is resealing?
Resealing refers to applying new silicone sealant along the joints, corners, and edges of your shower—such as where the tiles meet the base, screen, or wall.
Best for:
● Preventing water from escaping at joins and seams
● Fixing minor leaks at the shower base or corners
● Giving a clean, finished look
Note:
If the grout beneath is damaged, resealing alone won’t stop the leak.
Regrouting vs resealing: what’s the difference?
| Feature | Regrouting | Resealing |
| Focus Area | Between tiles | Edges and joins |
| Purpose | Replace damaged grout | Seal gaps at corners/edges |
| Solves Leaks? | ✅ Yes – if leak is from grout | ⚠️ Only if sealant is the issue |
| Aesthetic Benefit | Major upgrade | Clean edges only |
| Cost | Moderate | Low |
Which one do I need?
● Shower looks mouldy, the tiles are loose, or the grout is cracked?
👉 You likely need regrouting (and sealing after).
● Grout looks okay, but water leaks from corners or screen edges?
👉 A simple reseal may do the trick.
● Not sure?
A professional inspection will determine what’s needed—and whether your tiles can stay in place.
Can you do both at the same time?
Yes, and it’s often recommended. Most regrouting jobs are finished with a reseal to ensure everything is watertight and properly protected.
Want expert help choosing the right fix?
The team at Leaking Showers Sealed specialises in shower repairs without removing tiles. Whether you need regrouting, resealing, or both—we’ve got you covered.