Why should I waterproof or tank bathrooms, showers and other wet areas* before tiling? Why should I waterproof or tank bathrooms, showers and other wet areas* before tiling?

Why should I waterproof or tank bathrooms, showers and other wet areas* before tiling?

*Does not include swimming pools


The underlying substrate in wet areas, or substrates adjoining wet areas, is often moisture-sensitive e.g. plaster, plasterboard and even some proprietary tile backer boards. Even when they’re tiled, water can still get to the background through cementitious grout joints and adhesive bedding, as they’re porous in nature and allow moisture to be absorbed through them. Ultimately, this results in damp and mould; and over time, it can transfer to adjoining rooms and/or cause the tiles to de-bond. As recommended by BS 5385-1: 2018 and BS 5385-4: 2015, ensure wet areas in both domestic and commercial installations are waterproofed (we recommend ARDEX WPC) to prevent unsightly and costly water damage.