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Is Shower Grout Waterproof ? Does it Leak ? Does Grout Need to be Sealed ?

Is Shower Grout Waterproof ? Does it Leak ? Does Grout Need to be Sealed ?

I  copied and pasted below an email exchange I had with a potential customer that I think may contain some helpful information for everyone regarding shower maintenance, shower issues, waterproofing, leak prevention and an understanding in to grout and caulk. ( I just removed any identifying details of customer)

hello here are the pics of my bath- looking to have the grout cleaned and resealed – the shower is 32.5 x 60 inch.  Depending on the quote would like to get the work done by 3/7 if possible. 

Thanks let me know-

Jennifer,

Your shower looks like its in good condition and does not need any work. Although not necessary if you want we can remove your caulking and making the seam a bit smaller and aesthetically pleasing although again it is not necessary.

Regards,

David

Hi David- thanks for the quick response, what Im worried about is the seal on the grout deteriorating, the condo was built in 89 and water leaks are a big problem when they happen.  Im on the third floor and have had like 4 water issues, the last one I had to pay was 3k (I have a large deductible because of a major water claim 40k 8 yrs ago).   Also we had an email for the HOA about improper grouting causing water leaks so wanted to get it taken care of.  I think that I was under the impression that grout is porous and after a while even though it looks ok it isn’t?  Is this me just being over anxious ?  Also I figured the caulking does need to be redone so why not get it all done at the same time.

Let me know, I appreciate your honesty thanks-

Jennifer,

Technically as long as grout on a wall shows no sign of cracking or missing spots then water should not leak through even if it is not sealed at all. Although grout is porous not to the point that you will actually have water leak through solid grout especially since on a wall it only has short term exposure until the water runs down. However if it makes you more comfortable to have the grout be completely non absorbent we can seal it. The way to test grout is to check while showering if the grout darkens when it gets wet or not. If it does not even darken then it is already sealed. If it darkens it is not sealed but again will not leak through if its not cracked.
However the seams between the shower walls (going all the way up to the top), between the tub and the walls and between the tub and the bathroom floor should be caulked. If proper caulking (100% silicone) was used and there is no gaps then there is no reason to re-caulk. If the caulk was not proper or there is gaps then it is very important to take care of asap because that can easily cause a leak.
I hope my answer was helpful.