At No Xcuses Remodeling and Plumbing Contractors, we’re often called in to repair what others rushed through—and this recent bathroom demo says it all.
What Went Wrong?
From the outside, the tub surround looked fine. But just three years after a full remodel, tiles began to shift and come loose. That’s not normal. So we opened it up—and here’s what we found:
- Incorrect mortar: Dry-set mortar was used, which is not made for wet environments.
- No back buttering: Tiles had zero adhesive on their backs—leading to weak bonds.
- Poor surface prep: Thinset was applied directly to the wall, but didn’t bond properly.
- Water intrusion: Moisture had already made its way behind the tiles.
This wasn’t just poor craftsmanship—it was a ticking time bomb. And now, the homeowner is paying twice: once for the original job, and again for a full tear-out and rebuild.
How We’re Fixing It
We stripped the surround back to the studs and are rebuilding it the right way, using professional standards that last:
✅ Full waterproofing system
✅ Modified thinset designed for wet applications
✅ Full tile coverage with back buttering
✅ Tight grout lines and a clean, professional layout
This isn’t just a cosmetic fix—it’s a long-term solution built to last.
The Takeaway: Pay Once, Not Twice
As we always say:
“Cheap work isn’t good, and good work isn’t cheap.”
Trying to save money with shortcuts will always cost more in the long run—especially in bathrooms, where moisture quickly exposes bad work.
Serving Libertyville, Vernon Hills, Lake Zurich, Highland Park, Glenview, Wilmette & Surrounding Suburbs
Whether it’s tile repair, bathroom remodeling, or full plumbing installs—No Xcuses gets the job done right the first time.
📞 Call (847) 791-2868 to schedule your remodel or repair.
One Call. No Excuses. Done Right.
