Enter your ZIP to find local pros.
Please enter a valid 5 digit zip code

Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom Shower Tile Repair Cost

Average Cost:

$250 - $1,500

Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tile, failing grout, or tiles that have shifted because they were not bonded correctly, shower tile repairs can range from quick fixes to more involved projects. On average, homeowners pay about $650 to repair shower tile issues. Costs depend on the type of damage, how widespread it is, and whether water has caused hidden problems behind the tile.

Find the best bathroom-remodel pros in your area.

The Modernize Mission

We help homeowners make confident decisions through our reliable, up-to-date, and unbiased information and average project costs. All of our content is thoroughly reviewed and fact-checked by our team of home improvement experts. Learn more about how we maintain these values.

How Much Does Shower Tile Repair Cost?

Shower tile repair typically costs between $250 and $1,500, with most homeowners landing near the middle of that range for minor to moderate repairs. Small fixes, like replacing a single cracked tile or regrouting a section of the shower, are relatively affordable. Costs rise when water damage, mold, or loose backing materials are involved.

In this guide, you’ll learn how shower tile repair costs break down by problem type, tile material, and labor, plus what factors can increase your total price.

Repair Problem Average Cost
Regrouting or Grout Repair $250 to $600
Replacing Cracked or Broken Tiles $150 to $450
Fixing Loose or Hollow Tiles $300 to $800
Repairing Water Damage Behind Tile $500 to $1,500
Mold Remediation Behind Shower Tile $600 to $2,000

Shower Tile Repair Cost by Problem

Shower tile issues often start small but can become more expensive if moisture gets behind the tile. Because showers are constantly exposed to water, even minor problems should be addressed quickly.

Related: Shower Tile Installation Guide

Cracked or Broken Tiles

Cracked tiles are usually caused by impact, settling, or improper installation.

  • Typical Cost: $150 to $450
  • What’s Included: Tile removal, replacement tile installation, and regrouting
  • Cost Factors: Tile type, availability of matching tiles, and location within the shower

Replacing a single broken tile is usually affordable, as long as the waterproofing behind it is intact.

Related: Shower Tile Square Footage Calculator

Grout Repair or Regrouting

Grout failure is one of the most common shower issues and often appears as crumbling, staining, or missing grout.

  • Typical Cost: $250 to $600
  • What’s Included: Removing old grout and applying new grout or grout sealant
  • Cost Factors: Shower size and grout condition

Regrouting is a preventative repair that helps stop moisture from reaching the wall cavity.

Loose or Hollow Tiles

Tiles that sound hollow or move when pressed often indicate adhesive failure or moisture behind the tile.

  • Typical Cost: $300 to $800
  • What’s Included: Tile removal, substrate repair, and reinstallation
  • Cost Factors: Number of affected tiles and underlying damage

If left unaddressed, loose tiles can lead to water intrusion and mold growth.

Black and white tile on shower wall next to white subway tile with dark grout

Water Damage Behind Shower Tile

Water damage occurs when moisture bypasses grout, tile, or waterproofing layers.

  • Typical Cost: $500 to $1,500
  • What’s Included: Tile removal, drying, minor shower repair, and tile replacement
  • Cost Factors: Severity of damage and repair access

Shower Tile Repair Cost by Tile Material or Type

How much you’ll pay depends on the type of tile in your shower. See the list below for common materials and their repair prices.

  • Ceramic Tile: $150 to $500
  • Porcelain Tile: $200 to $700
  • Natural Stone Tile: $400 to $1,200
  • Glass Tile: $300 to $900

Matching discontinued or custom tiles can increase costs significantly.

How Shower Tile Repair Costs Break Down

Your total shower tile repair cost will include labor, materials, and additional repairs where necessary. As someone whose shower tiles have come loose twice, here’s what we tend to see. Labor is a big part of the cost, so quicker repairs will cost less. More damage means longer repair time, which raises your prices. Materials usually account for about 20% to 35% of the total, and additional repairs (mold, structural damage, etc.) will all add to your total cost.

  • Labor: 50% to 70% of total cost
  • Materials: 20% to 35% of total cost
  • Additional Repairs: 10% to 30% of total cost
Hidden moisture issues are the most common reason shower tile repairs exceed the initial estimate.

Shower Tile Repair FAQs

How Much Is Labor for Tile Repair?

Tile repair labor typically costs $50 to $100 per hour, depending on your location and the contractor’s experience. Many professionals charge a minimum service fee for small repairs.

Is Regrouting Cheaper Than Retiling?

Yes. Regrouting usually costs significantly less than retiling because it does not require tile removal. However, regrouting only works if the tile and underlying waterproofing are still in good condition.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace One Broken Tile?

Replacing a single shower tile usually costs $150 to $300, depending on tile type and accessibility. Costs increase if matching tiles are hard to find or if water damage is discovered.

Next Steps

Shower tile problems rarely fix themselves, and delaying repairs can lead to more expensive water damage. Addressing issues early helps protect your bathroom and your home’s structure.

Modernize can help you find trusted local bathroom professionals. Compare quotes, review credentials, and choose the right pro for your project with confidence.

Compare top-rated bathroom remodel pros in your area.

Read real homeowner reviews, explore qualifications, and view promotions. Modernize makes it easy to browse professionals and find one that will be perfect for your project.

Share this article