What Is Waterproofing And Why Is It Important?
Waterproofing refers to an impenetrable barrier or membrane that is applied to the walls and subfloors of your bathroom before tiling. Waterproofing takes time and is a 3 step process entailing:
- Preparing the surface for waterproofing, ensuring there are no large gaps in the sub-floor or walls and that everything is sound before priming with a bonding adhesive;
- Application of the bond breaker. This is made of fabric or rubber and helps to completely cover any gaps in difficult spots: areas such as the corners of the room, around drains and fittings like taps; and
- The membrane – at least two coats – applied at right angles with each other. This membrane must be allowed to completely dry before tiling can be done.
Aside from structural issues, bathrooms are also one of the biggest drawcards for buyers and renters when inspecting a home. They represent a significant investment when renovating or building. The absolute last thing you want is to have to demolish a brand new bathroom due to poor waterproofing.
This is why bathroom waterproofing for your Brisbane build is incredibly important; it is the foundation for a quality bathroom that lasts.
What Happens If Your Bathroom Is Improperly Waterproofed?
Without proper waterproofing, each time you shower, water and steam can seep through the grout into the walls or floor beneath. This penetration of moisture into the structure of your home is damaging and dangerous. It can lead to the growth of mould and mildew and rot the underlying materials.
As a result, a portion, or more likely, all of your bathroom will need to be demolished and the damage repaired. Sometimes, this damage can extend well beyond just the bathroom. This can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in repair and refinishing costs.
Benefits Of Only Using A Licensed Waterproofer
Australian Standard 3740 is a building code that sets out in detail the minimum expectation for bathroom waterproofing in your Brisbane property. This relates to areas that must be waterproofed and to what height. However, it is not uncommon to have contractors fail to meet this standard. In Queensland, a building surveyor needs to sign off on your waterproofing before your bathroom can be completed.
It is also worth noting that bathrooms, both new and renovated, require a building permit, meaning only licensed tradespeople should be used. Only a qualified waterproofer should undertake your bathroom waterproofing. Waterproofing is not a job to be undertaken by DIYers – problems, stress, mess!!! With NRA Tiling, the bathroom waterproofing Brisbane specialists, there will be no problems, no stress, and no mess!