| Any protrusions like a shower seat or shelf
into a shower can create problems if these areas aren't properly
waterproofed. Rarely do I get the opportunity to remove the tile and
tile backing on a shower seat and find that there wasn't any damage.
Any areas in a shower or bath tub that are level or flat, have the
potential for water to accumulate for long periods of time. While you're
taking a shower, there is a continuous supply of moisture that will be
soaking into the grout and working its way behind the tile.
You're probably thinking that most showers with seats or shelves should
be properly waterproofed and in most cases you're absolutely right. All
it takes is one small crack or hole for water to seep into it and within
a few years, you're replacing the water damaged wood and tile seat. This
is a reality and does happen.
I'm not suggesting that this is normal but it does happen. And this is
normally when I get called to perform the home repair or remodeling
necessary to solve the problem. Rarely do I get to see the bathrooms
that have outlasted their time
Home Tip: Try to wipe these areas down after you have taken a shower or
bath. This will prevent the remaining water from working its way through
the grout in between the tiles, into areas where moisture can lead to
water damage.
In a situation like the picture above, I would recommend framing a wall
on top of the small shelf or moving the bathtub wall over to create a
flat or straight shower wall and eliminate the small shelf or seat. This
seat is too small to sit on isn't worth the problems it could create in
the future.
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