Failing to seal cement-based grout in a shower exposes the porous joint lines to constant, high-volume water saturation, which quickly leads to severe staining, discoloration, and structural degradation. Because cement grout is naturally porous, unsealed joints will absorb dirty shower water, soap scum, body oils, and mold spores, making them look dingy and breeding stubborn mildew. Over time, continuous water penetration weakens the grout joints, causing them to crack, crumble, and erode out of place. This moisture can eventually reach the underlying waterproof membrane or drywall backing, potentially resulting in hidden structural wood rot and expensive water damage repairs behind the tiled walls.
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