Loose Shower Tiles: It Is Worse Than You Think

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if your shower tiles are starting to move, lift, or shift when you walk on them, it is worse than you think.

Loose tiles in a wet area usually mean there is a failure beneath the surface, most likely in the waterproofing layer. This could be either beneath the membrane, where it did not bond properly to the surface, or above it, where the tiles did not adhere correctly to the membrane. Once that system has been compromised, the issue is no longer just cosmetic. And unfortunately, it cannot be patched. In nearly all cases, the entire shower or bathroom floor must be redone to meet New Zealand Building Code requirements and prevent ongoing water damage.

What Causes Tiles to Move in the First Place

When tiles start shifting or lifting, it is a clear sign that something was not done properly during the installation process. Some of the most common causes include:

• Improper priming under the waterproofing. If the surface was not primed correctly before applying the membrane, the waterproofing may not bond properly.

• Improper priming on top of the waterproofing. If the waterproofed surface was not prepared correctly before tiling, the adhesive will not stick as it should.

• Incorrect or low quality adhesive. Using the wrong type of glue or not using enough leads to tiles coming loose.

• No backbuttering or spot fixing. If the back of each tile is not fully covered in adhesive, hollow spots form and the tiles eventually lift.

• Working outside of curing times. If tiling begins before the membrane has cured, or if the glue is applied outside its working window, the system is weak from the start.

• Movement or flex in the floor or substrate. If the surface beneath the tiles moves or flexes, it breaks the bond.

• Poor workmanship. Rushed jobs, skipped steps, or lack of experience can lead to all of the above.

These problems usually begin behind the scenes but eventually show up on the surface as moving, cracking, or lifting tiles.

Why You Cannot Just Patch It

This is one of the most common questions we get.
Can you just fix the few loose tiles?

Technically yes, but it will not meet council code. Once the waterproofing membrane has failed, or once you disturb any part of the tile system, the repair no longer complies with building standards unless the full area is redone.

There is no way to overlap a new patch of membrane with the existing one in a way that guarantees a watertight seal. Waterproofing membranes are designed to be installed in one continuous go, without breaks, so the entire wet area is protected from leaks.

If you want the repair to be compliant, backed by a PS3 Producer Statement, and safe for resale or insurance purposes, it needs to be stripped, re-waterproofed, and retiled.

Some clients choose to go ahead with a patch repair and take on the risks themselves. While we can carry out this type of work, our goal is to make sure you fully understand the limitations and make an informed decision. A patch may improve the surface temporarily, but it will not meet building code and does not guarantee long-term protection against leaks.

Here is why patching often leads to problems:

• Water can continue leaking into the substrate

• Mold, rot, and structural damage can form behind the tiles

• The job will not meet E3 Internal Moisture code requirements

• A PS3 waterproofing statement cannot be issued

• Insurance claims or future resale could be affected

A patch may buy some time, but it does not solve the root problem. In many cases, it ends up costing more in the long run.

What a Proper Fix Involves

Fixing moving tiles the right way means going back to the start. The full process typically includes:

1. Removing all floor tiles in the affected area, and sometimes walls

2. Inspecting the substrate for water damage or rot

3. Rebuilding or leveling the surface if needed

4. Applying a new waterproofing membrane by a certified waterproofer

5. Tiling using the correct adhesive and methods

6. Issuing a PS3 Producer Statement if required

This ensures the job meets code, protects your home from future leaks, and provides long term peace of mind.

Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

If you are not sure whether your tiles are moving or just look a bit off, here are some common warning signs:

• Tiles shift when stepped on

• A hollow sound when tapping tiles

• Grout lines cracking or breaking away

• Lifting edges or visible gaps

• Silicone joints peeling or detaching

• Damp smell or visible water damage

• Water pooling around the shower area

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the shower until the area can be inspected. The longer it is left, the worse the damage can get.

We Can Help Fix It Properly

At Ray Tiling, we know that not every job needs a full rebuild. Some clients want to stop the leak and deal with the rest later. Others want it done properly from the ground up.

Whatever approach you want to take, we are here to help. We can give you clear advice, outline the risks and benefits of each option, and carry out the work to the standard that suits your needs.

If your shower tiles are moving, lifting, or showing signs of failure, get in touch with us today. We can assess the issue, explain your options, and help you get it fixed the way you want.

Contact us here to book a consultation today to find out what is really going on beneath your tiles.