Why is My Shower Wall Cracking?

Shower walls crack when stress builds up in the wall system, and the surface material can’t properly absorb the pressure.

Finding a crack in your shower walls not only looks aesthetically off-putting, but also raises concern that there is a larger issue. After all, when water reaches the rest of the structure, the repairs can be costly. And just as bad, there’s the worry about mold growing behind the walls.

As a tub and shower remodeling specialist, Shugarman’s Bath has spoken with many homeowners who noticed cracks and weren’t sure how concerned they should be. Some cracks can be cosmetic, while others can be warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.

In this article, you’ll learn what kinds of stress cause cracks in your shower walls, how to tell the difference between a cosmetic crack and a more serious issue, and what steps you can take if you notice cracking in your shower walls.

Table of Contents:

1. What Causes Stress in a Shower Wall?
2. When is a Shower Wall Crack Likely Cosmetic?
3. When Does a Crack Suggest There’s a Bigger Issue?
4. Can I Just Patch the Crack?
5. What Should I Do If I Notice a Crack in My Shower Walls?

What Causes Stress in a Shower Wall?

Homes naturally expand and contract with temperature shifts. And when the tub and shower area is shocked with gallons of hot water daily, it introduces vibration, pressure, and moisture.

Many shower materials are rigid. When stress builds up, the material struggles to flex or absorb the movement. As a result, it releases pressure through a crack. 

When is a Shower Wall Crack Likely Cosmetic?

Cracking on a shower wall surface can indicate a larger structural issue, though this isn’t always the case. Cosmetic cracks often appear suddenly after an impact and generally stay the same size over time. They’ll typically have a clear starting point and won’t return once they’re repaired. 

In cases like these, the surface likely experienced a one-time stress event. 

When Does a Crack Suggest There’s a Bigger Issue?

Give a shower wall crack more attention if they:

• Slowly widens or spreads.
• Reappears after patching.
• Forms in seams, corners, or joints.
• Show up in multiple locations.

These patterns usually indicate ongoing stress. Pressure-causing cracks are more often due to movement that the wall system wasn’t designed to handle. If left alone, moisture can accelerate these cracks and accelerate the damage, especially on higher-maintenance shower wall materials.

Can I Just Patch the Crack?

Sure, you can, but if it’s a larger issue, patching the crack is a temporary fix. The crack often returns.

Having to patch a crack repeatedly is frustrating. You can temporarily avoid the inevitable, though there will come a point where you have to address the bigger issues behind the surface. 

What Should I Do If I Notice a Crack in My Shower Walls?

The main thing is to pay attention to any changes. Take a picture of the crack now and see if you notice any changes later. If a crack spreads, reappears, or multiplies, you likely have a larger issue that needs to be fixed professionally.

Don’t freak out. You might not be experiencing immediate failure. However, don’t ignore cracks, either. If you’re unsure what a crack in your shower wall means, ask questions with a professional or have it evaluated. Ask questions now before damage spreads later.

Next, read our article on why the tub and shower area is the most dangerous part of your home.

If you have questions about any ongoing issues with your shower, give Shugarman’s Bath a call to speak with one of our professionals. If you’re worried about a tub or shower wall crack, give us a call!

The opinions expressed in the referenced materials are those of the authors only, not necessarily of Shugarman’s Bath. While these referenced materials are useful in answering generalized questions, each bathroom is unique. For a particular question about your tub or shower remodeling project, contact your Shugarman’s Bath consultant.