Bad Habits That Can Destroy Your Shower

Bad Habits That Can Destroy Your Shower

The shower, just like other parts of a home, can develop a wide range of issues due to normal wear and tear. However, some of our habits also contribute to most of the problems we experience in the shower. Today, the plumbers at Neighborhood Plumbing look into the bad habits that can damage your shower.

• Ignoring Leaks

Any room in your house is susceptible to plumbing leaks, but the most common place to find them is the bathroom. From shower heads and bathtubs to toilets and sinks, these fixtures can wear and tear over time and spring leaks. Shower leaks may seem insignificant at first, but they can quickly turn into serious problems. The water can seep into the walls, floors, ceilings, and other structural components and cause costly damage. In addition, unrepaired water leaks can cause mold growth in your bathroom. It’s important to watch out for signs of water leaks in your shower and call a local plumber in Adams Township, PA to make repairs.

• Using Harsh Cleaners

We get it—acidic cleaners can leave your tiles, grout, and fixtures spotless, but they can do more harm than good. The marketers of these products won’t tell you the long-term damage they can inflict on your shower. Abrasive cleaners etch tiles, damage grout, and corrode metal fixtures. You’ll pay a heavy price later in repairs and replacements when you use them regularly. Opt for gentle and pH-balanced cleaners designed for bathroom surfaces.

• Scrubbing Too Hard

As a neat freak, there’s that urge to really get in there and scrub away every bit of soap scum, grime, and mildew. However, when it comes to cleaning your shower surfaces, sometimes less is more. Scrubbing too vigorously can do more harm than good. While you might think you’re achieving a deeper clean, aggressive scrubbing can scratch tile surfaces, wear down sealant, and dull the finish on your shower surfaces. Instead of relying on brute force, opt for gentler cleaning methods. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner designed for bathroom surfaces.

• Neglecting Grout

Not many people remember to clean grout during their regular shower cleaning routine, but this often-overlooked area is a prime breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Grout can easily absorb moisture and create the perfect environment for these unwanted guests. If left uncleaned, grout can become discolored, stained, and even start to crumble. Our skilled plumbers recommend that you clean your shower grout at least once a week to remove excess water and prevent soap scum buildup. It’s also a good idea to seal your grout at least once a year to prevent moisture absorption.

• Leaving Wet Items in the Shower

We are all guilty of leaving a wet loofah, washcloth, or even a bar of soap sitting in the shower after we’re done. This practice creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. The damp environment provides the moisture these microorganisms need to thrive. It’s advisable to wring out or dry these items after use and keep them in a well-ventilated area outside of the shower.

• Poor Ventilation

Exhaust fans do a great job in moisture control, but we rarely think about their condition unless something goes wrong. Malfunctioning exhaust fans can contribute to moisture buildup in your bathroom, leading to many problems. Always check the condition of these fixtures and run them during and after showers to maintain optimal ventilation. If they are damaged, call a local plumbing service to diagnose the problem and make repairs.

Do you need reliable and affordable shower repair? Trust the plumbers at Neighborhood Plumbing to do a great job. Our plumbers can diagnose and fix everything from leaky shower heads and faucets to broken tiles and malfunctioning shower valves.