Tumbled Marble Grout Mildew
by Terri
(Memphis)
QUESTION: Our tumbled marble is chocolate noche in the shower. We have been having mildew problems and cannot seem to get rid of it. What should we use to get rid of it and keep it at bay?
ANSWER: Terri, recurring mildew problems are usually from the constant presence of moisture.
From your question, I gather that you clean regularly and are still getting mildew problems.
If your bathroom has a fan, is reasonably well ventilated and your shower dries out after use daily, then you really shouldn't be getting mildew unless....
Water is leaking through cracks in your marble or grout and getting trapped creating that constant source of moisture. This can happen with a poor tile installation and is more common than it should be.
If such is the case, then you may be in for some bad news. You may have to rip out the marble shower and start over.
If you are getting mildew in several spots or over a large area, then I'd say you have a major problem. If it's confined to a couple small spots, then you may just have some loose or cracked grout.
I suggest that you don't use that shower for two or three or four days and let it dry out completely. Then inspect it.
Look for gaps or cracks and feel all over for moisture.... you shouldn't feel any.
If you do find isolated cracks and moisture, then you
may be able to repair it by filling with grout or caulk after letting it dry more.
Get ready for a remodel if the shower remains damp in broad areas.
To clean isolated mildew, use
Bathroom MOLD & MILDEW Remover, a specially formulated stone cleaner.
Good Luck,
Ryan