Think You Can DIY It? Every Reason Why the Cost to Regrout a Shower Is Worth Paying
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Unsightly shower tiles and grout can be unhygienic and may put off potential home buyers. The cost to regrout a shower ranges from $600 to $2,500, with many homeowners spending $1,500 on average.
Highlights
- The cost to regrout shower tiles is $1,500, though it’s possible for homeowners to spend between $600 and $2,500.
- The size of the shower, tile type and size, tile spacing, type of grout, labor rates, scope of work, and other factors will determine the final cost of regrouting a shower.
- Shower grout that needs repair will have several obvious signs: stains, cracks, gaps, chips, mold growth, and loose tiles. Repairing these issues before the homeowner sells the property can help the home have better appeal.
- Many homeowners work on DIY grout removal but find the end result doesn’t last. Hiring a pro ensures that old grout is removed and new grout is properly installed without damage to the tiles.
Cracked or moldy grout in the shower is a good indication that it’s time for a good regrouting project. Regrouting is the process of removing old grout and replacing it with fresh grout to improve the appearance and functionality of the shower. According to Angi, the cost to regrout a shower ranges from $600 to $2,500, with the national average around $1,500. Some factors that can contribute to variations in cost include the size of the shower, the condition of the existing grout, and the type of tile.
Additionally, damaged or cracked tiles may need to be replaced, which can add to the overall cost. Shower walls that are in poor condition might also need repair or replacement before regrouting can take place. If a brand-new shower is needed, then a new shower installation cost would be another consideration.
Overall, the cost to regrout shower tile can vary quite a bit, but it is an investment that can improve the durability and aesthetics of the bathroom. For homeowners who are tired of looking at worn-out shower grout or struggling to keep moldy bathroom grout clean, it may be time to consider the costs of tile regrouting.
Factors in Calculating the Cost to Regrout a Shower
Several factors go into calculating an average regrout shower cost. It’s important to note that the national average of $1,500 can vary significantly among local averages due to factors such as shower size, tile size and spacing, tile type, grout type, and local labor prices. Another key factor that affects the cost of grout replacement is the extent of the problem. If the shower tiles are only lightly worn, the price will likely be lower than the cost for showers with extensive damage and widespread grout failure. The latter situation will likely require full grout repair.
Shower Size
The size of a shower directly impacts the cost to regrout. The total square footage influences the amount of grout needed, the labor involved, and the duration of the project. On average, a professional will charge between $10 and $25 per square foot for regrouting bathroom tile. The measurements for a standard shower stall are 36 inches wide by 36 inches deep with a height that ranges from 72 inches to 80 inches.
Larger showers have more tiles to rework, and intricate patterns or designs may take more time and effort. More surface area and tiles require more time for thorough cleaning, preparation, and application of the new grout. Considering the size of the shower is important when homeowners are estimating costs since it helps them and the contractor gauge the extent of the project.
| Shower Size | Average Surface Area | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| 32 inches by 32 inches | 56 square feet | $560 to $1,400 |
| 36 inches by 36 inches | 63 square feet | $630 to $1,575 |
| 48 inches by 36 inches | 70 square feet | $700 to $1,750 |
| 36 inches by 60 inches | 77 square feet | $770 to $1,925 |
| 60 inches by 42 inches | 95 square feet | $950 to $2,375 |
Tile Size and Spacing
The size and spacing of tiles significantly influence the cost of regrouting shower tile. Larger tiles are generally less expensive to grout since there are fewer grout lines than with smaller tiles. Intricate patterns or designs with small tiles will add complexity to the regrouting process, which can also impact both time and labor.
On the other hand, tiles with wider grout lines require more time and materials to fill the gaps. It’s also important to consider that larger gaps might also pose challenges during the removal and replacement process, which can affect labor time and effort.
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Tile Type
Different types of tiles have their own characteristics, which can affect the process of replacing grout in a shower. For example, machine-made tiles are common choices for showers and are generally more cost-effective to regrout. They are durable and relatively easy to work with, resulting in a smoother and quicker regrouting process. Natural stone tiles, such as marble or granite, can be more expensive to regrout due to their porous nature and the need for specialized sealants and treatments.
More intricate or textured tiles may require more meticulous attention during the regrouting process, impacting labor time and potentially raising costs. Understanding the specific characteristics of each type of shower tile is important for an accurate cost estimate.
| Tile Type | Grout Type | Average Cost per Shower (Materials and Labor) |
| Floor tile over 12 inches | Sanded epoxy | $480 to $600 |
| Floor tile up to 12 inches | Unsanded epoxy | $400 to $500 |
| Glass | Sanded or unsanded epoxy | $500 to $800 |
| Handmade wall tile | Sanded polymer | $480 to $600 |
| Machine-made wall tile | Unsanded polymer | $400 to $800 |
| Mosaic tile | Sanded epoxy | $960 to $1,280 |
| Polished or honed stone tile | Unsanded epoxy or polymer | $400 to $600 |
| Tumbled marble tile | Sanded epoxy | $960 to $1,280 |
Grout Type
Standard cement-based grouts are generally more cost-effective than other grout types, making them a popular choice. However, they may be prone to stains and require more frequent maintenance. Epoxy grouts are more durable and resistant to stains and water damage but tend to be more expensive. One reason is that epoxy grouts require more precision during application, which can potentially extend the project timeline and increase labor costs. Other common types of shower tile grout are cement, epoxy, polymer, sanded, and unsanded.
Labor
Local labor costs have a substantial impact on the overall cost to regrout shower tile. In areas with a higher cost of living or where skilled labor is in high demand, the labor rates for grouting a shower wall may be more expensive. On the other hand, in regions with a lower cost of living, labor rates may be more budget-friendly.
The impact of local labor costs extends beyond hourly rates—it also affects the overall project estimate, since the best bathroom remodeling companies consider local economic factors, competition, and business costs when determining their pricing. Overall, homeowners can expect to pay between $10 and $25 per square foot or $30 to 40 per hour for a professional to regrout their shower.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When homeowners are calculating the total cost of shower regrouting, it’s important to consider various price factors beyond the basic materials and labor. Additional costs and considerations may include caulking, sealing, full vs. minor regrouting, and regrouting vs. retiling.
Caulking
While caulking is a separate process from grouting tile, it often goes hand-in-hand with shower repair projects. The average cost to recaulk a shower is around $300, or from $1.25 to $4 per linear foot, but the total price depends on a few factors.
- Caulk replacement. Caulk replacement is often necessary when it becomes discolored, cracked, or compromised.
- Caulking material. High-quality silicone or hybrid caulks may have a higher upfront cost but offer better durability and longevity.
- Labor. Hiring professionals to properly remove old caulk and apply new caulk will raise labor costs.
Sealing
The application of a sealer helps protect the grout from moisture, stains, and mold, enhancing the longevity and appearance of the newly regrouted surfaces. Applying sealer costs from $2 to $5 per square foot.
- Sealer type and quality. High-quality sealers often come with a higher upfront cost but provide better protection and durability. If a concrete-based grout is used, then an acrylic water-based or solvent-based sealer is needed. If epoxy-based or polymer grout is used, it typically does not need to be sealed.
- Surface area. The size of the shower and the total surface area that needs sealing influence material costs. Larger showers or spaces with extensive tiling may require more sealer.
- Frequency of sealing. Some sealers may need to be reapplied periodically for optimal protection. Knowing how to seal grout can help homeowners extend the life of the grout and tile.
Full vs. Minor Regrouting
The extent of regrouting, whether it’s a full or minor regrouting project, significantly influences the overall cost. Labor, materials, and time required will all play into how much a regrouting job costs.
- Full regrouting. Completely removing and replacing all grout in the shower area requires a larger quantity of grout. Additionally, the labor involved is more extensive. A full regrouting project involves removing all the existing grout, cleaning the surfaces thoroughly, and applying new grout.
- Minor regrouting. If only specific areas or sections of the shower require regrouting, less material is needed, which will reduce costs. The labor involved is also less intensive and the project will take less time, leading to savings in labor costs. If the grout is discolored, a pro might be able to restore it by using an effective method for cleaning the grout and sealing it instead of replacing it. It can cost about $450 to restore 100 square feet of grout.
Regrouting vs. Retiling
The decision between regrouting and retiling a shower can significantly impact the overall cost of the project. In some cases, the damage is too severe and the homeowner will have to opt for retiling.
- Regrouting. Regrouting is more cost-effective than retiling the entire shower in some cases. The average cost to tile a shower is $900, compared to $1,500 to regrout. If the shower also needs some tiles replaced, the cost to regrout can be more expensive.
- Retiling. It’s important for homeowners to weigh the price of the new tiles against the value of retiling. Retiling may be added to the cost to remodel a shower, and replacing high-end luxury tiles like granite or marble can significantly increase the price beyond the average cost to regrout.
Cost to Regrout a Shower by Type of Grout
Different types of grout vary in terms of material composition, durability, and ease of installation, which ultimately affects the cost. “In my experience, glass tile is very difficult [to regrout] due to its inherent brittleness,” explains Steve Little, founder and president of Your Home Improvement Company, which serves several states in the northern U.S. “Additionally, certain patterns of tile, like herringbone, can be difficult to regrout due to the complexity of the pattern.”
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“Tiles with beveled edges are the hardest to regrout,” adds Korey Gregory, superintendent for ASAP Restoration, LLC, in Tempe, Arizona. “This is because they are much more prone to chipping than other tiles without a bevel.”
| Type of Grout | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Cement | $5 to $7 per square foot |
| Epoxy | $8 to $12 per square foot |
| Polymer | $6.50 to $10 per square foot |
| Sanded | $6 to $8 per square foot |
| Unsanded | $5 to $6 per square foot |
Cement
Cement-based grout is an economical option, but it does come with disadvantages. It’s budget-friendly, but it may require sealing and more frequent maintenance. On average, the cost of regrouting a cement-based grout ranges from $5 to $7 per square foot, or $400 to $600 for an 80-square-foot shower. Cement grout isn’t the best option for frequently used showers since it can crack and discolor easily, but it’s an excellent choice as a base for home fixtures and other tile work.
Epoxy
Known for its exceptional durability, flexibility, and resistance to stains and water damage, epoxy is a more expensive option. It’s available in sanded and unsanded options, and both are high in VOCs (volatile organic compounds). This increased performance comes at a higher cost, which ranges from $8 to $12 per square foot, or $720 to $960 for an 80-square-foot shower. Epoxy costs more than average since a pro has to mix it just before regrouting, and it’s not the easiest to spread.
Polymer
With a wide cost range, polymer makes an attractive option for homeowners. Polymer grout is a blend of cement, fine quartz fillers, and liquid polymers. These polymers act as binders, enhancing the grout’s performance and physical properties. Some of the advantages of polymer grout are its superior strength, durability, and excellent resistance to cracking, shrinking, and color fading. It’s an ideal choice for high-use areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Polymer grout runs from $6.50 to $10 per square foot, or from $560 to $880 for an 80-square-foot shower.
Sanded
Sanded grout is designed for wider gaps. As the name suggests, it contains sand additives that help increase its stability and durability. This component makes sanded grout ideal for filling and securing grout joints in ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. One of the most significant advantages of sanded grout is its strength. The sand particles act as aggregate, providing stability and reducing the likelihood of cracks or shrinkage. It’s also resistant to stains, water, and chemicals, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance surface. Homeowners with an 80-square-foot shower can expect to pay $6 to $8 per square foot, or $480 to $640.
Unsanded
Non-sanded, or unsanded, grout is made from a mixture of cement, powdered pigments, and chemical additives. The main distinction between unsanded and sanded grout is in the particle size. Unsanded grout typically contains fine-grade sand that will shrink as it dries, while sanded grout incorporates coarser sand. That makes unsanded grout ideal for narrower grout lines that are less than ⅛ of an inch wide. It’s less likely to scratch delicate tile surfaces, and it works well with ceramic, glass, or marble tiles. Grouting an 80-square-foot shower costs from $5 to $6 per square foot, or from $400 to $480.
Do I need to regrout my shower?
It’s important for homeowners to keep an eye on the condition of the shower, especially the grout. Over time, grout can deteriorate due to moisture, mold, or regular wear and tear. Some signs that it’s time to regrout the shower can include staining and discoloration, cracks or gaps in the grout, loose tiles, and mold or mildew growth.
“There are a number of signs, but some of the more obvious ones would be mold and/or mildew buildup, hairline fractures in the grout, and fading or discoloration,” explains Little. “Additionally, when tiles begin to fall off, it’s time to consider regrouting your shower.”
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Staining or Discoloration
“Excessive staining is something that can be a sign of failing grout or excessive mold contamination,” says Gregory. Over time, moisture, soap scum, and mildew can penetrate the grout, leading to unsightly stains. Discoloration often manifests as dark patches or a yellowish tint, signaling the presence of mold or mildew. This not only affects the overall look of the shower but also poses potential health risks. Regrouting becomes essential to remove the old grout, eliminate mold or