I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a consultation and heard, “I think we need to retile the whole shower…”—only to discover that the issue could be solved with a far less expensive fix. On the flip side, I’ve also seen homeowners try to “just regrout” a shower when the damage underneath is far past the point of patching.

So, how do you know whether your shower really needs to be retiled, or if regrouting will do the trick?

I’ve been remodeling bathrooms for over eight years here in California, and this is one of the most common—and most misunderstood—questions I get. In this post, I’ll break down the difference between regrouting and retiling, when each option makes sense, and how to decide what’s truly right for your space.

What’s the Difference Between Regrouting and Retiling?

Before we get into the signs and symptoms, let’s define the terms.

Regrouting is the process of removing the old, deteriorating grout from between your tiles and replacing it with fresh grout. The tiles themselves stay in place—this is essentially a surface refresh for your shower.

Retiling involves removing both the old grout and the tiles themselves. It often requires demolition, backing board inspection, and a full reinstall of tile, adhesive, grout, and waterproofing layers.

Both improve the look and performance of your shower—but they come with very different scopes, timelines, and costs.

When Regrouting Is Enough

In many cases, your tiles are still in good condition, but the grout is failing. That might look like:

• Cracked or crumbling grout
• Discoloration or persistent mold in grout lines
• Minor water seepage from between tiles
• Grout falling out or pulling away

If the tiles themselves are solid, not loose or broken, and there’s no major water damage behind the walls, regrouting can give your shower a brand-new look without the price tag of a full renovation.

Pro tip: Regrouting can be done in as little as one day, and it typically costs a fraction of what full retiling does. I often recommend it for homeowners prepping to sell or simply wanting a cleaner, fresher aesthetic.

When Retiling Is the Right Move

Sometimes, the damage runs deeper—or the look is just completely outdated. Here are the most common signs that retiling is your better option:

• Loose, cracked, or broken tiles
• Signs of water damage, like soft drywall or moldy smells
• Tiles shifting when pressed
• Grout repairs that don’t hold
• Aesthetic changes—if you’re going for a whole new style or tile size

If water has gotten behind the tiles or there’s damage to the substrate, regrouting is just putting a band-aid on a bigger issue. In these cases, full retiling is a smart investment. It gives you a chance to install proper waterproofing, update the tile layout, and reset the clock on your shower’s structural integrity.

What About Mold or Mildew?

If you’re dealing with mildew that keeps coming back—even after regrouting—it may be a sign that water is trapped behind the tile. Persistent mold often means the waterproof membrane has failed, and surface repairs won’t solve the root problem.

In these cases, I always recommend retiling. It’s not just a cosmetic concern—it’s about protecting your home from deeper moisture damage and potential health issues.

Cost Comparison: Regrouting vs. Retiling

Here’s a general ballpark based on what I’ve seen across projects in California:

• Regrouting a standard 3×5 shower:
  $500–$1,200 depending on labor and grout type
• Retiling the same shower (including demolition, prep, materials):
  $2,500–$6,000 or more, especially with premium tile or complex layouts

Retiling is the bigger investment—but it also delivers more in terms of visual impact, waterproofing integrity, and long-term value.

Choosing the Right Tile and Grout for Long-Term Results

If you’re going the retiling route, don’t underestimate how much your material choices can impact the performance and longevity of your shower. I’ve seen beautiful tile jobs fail early—not because of the workmanship, but because the wrong materials were used in a high-moisture space.

Let’s start with tile.

Porcelain tiles are my go-to for most shower projects. They’re denser, less porous, and far more water-resistant than ceramic. If you’re dealing with heavy daily use or just want peace of mind, porcelain is worth the small bump in price.

Ceramic tiles can still work well, especially on walls, but they’re more prone to chipping and water absorption over time. If you’re on a budget, just make sure your installer uses proper waterproofing behind them.

Natural stone tiles (like marble or travertine) look stunning but require more upkeep. They’re porous and need regular sealing. I usually reserve these for homeowners who want a luxury look and are okay with a little extra maintenance.

Now for grout.

If you’ve only ever used traditional cement-based grout, you may be surprised to learn there are better-performing options out there—especially for wet environments.

Epoxy grout is my top recommendation for showers. It’s stain-resistant, waterproof, and much less likely to crack or discolor over time. It’s a little trickier to apply, and it costs more, but it pays off big time in durability.

Sanded vs. unsanded grout is another detail I walk clients through. Unsanded is best for tight joints (like walls), while sanded is more durable for wider floor joints. Choosing the right one ensures a better seal and longer-lasting results.

Bottom line? The right materials don’t just make your shower look better—they help it hold up for years. If you’re already investing in new tile, it’s worth making smart choices now to avoid future repairs later.

How to Know for Sure: Professional Assessment Matters

Still not sure what your shower needs? That’s completely normal. The best thing you can do is schedule a professional inspection. I always recommend pulling off a small section of tile if there’s any doubt—because what’s going on behind the walls tells the real story.

Sometimes, a shower that looks worn on the surface is structurally sound—and regrouting is the perfect refresh. Other times, you’ll uncover hidden damage that makes full retiling the smarter long-term move.

Choose the Right Fix for the Right Reason

As someone who’s worked with every type of bathroom—from quick facelifts to full luxury spa upgrades—I can tell you this: your shower doesn’t need to be “gut and redo” every time something goes wrong. But ignoring deep issues or constantly regrouting when the system is failing underneath? That’s a recipe for bigger problems.

Whether you’re dealing with surface grime, aging grout, or water damage, the right approach comes down to how deep the issue runs—and what your long-term goals are for your space.

—

Written by Taylor Jones, a University of California graduate with a degree in interior design. I’m the owner of a successful home renovation company in California and a writer and editor for USA Shower and Bath. I specialize in bathroom remodeling, accessible home upgrades, and luxury bath installations, and have been helping homeowners fall in love with their bathrooms again for over eight years.