Bathroom Waterproofing Steps During a Renovation
Bathroom renovations bring ideas of new bathtubs, showers and sinks to mind. You may even think about retiling your floor or adding new mirrors and fixtures to the room. One of the steps that is often overlooked is the bathroom waterproofing. If you aren't sure how to waterproof the bathroom or what areas need waterproofing, then here are a few steps to consider. These steps will help ensure your bathroom is waterproofed and ready for you to start using it.
Seals and Corners
You may already know there needs to be a waterproofing membrane between the wall and your shower or tub. This is a step your contractor will take when they replace these areas or when they work on the plumbing and fixtures, depending on the plan you have for your renovation. Once this is done, you will still need to waterproof the seals and corners around showers, tubs and sinks. This can be done with a silicone gel or seal. The seal is placed along the connecting lines and corners to prevent water from getting in the area, which could cause mould and mildew.
Floors
You may not think about your floor as part of the waterproofing process for your bathroom. The truth is, your floor should be sealed. This waterproofing does not just cover the corners and along the wall edges. You also need to seal the top of the flooring as well. Regardless of the type of flooring material you have, there are waterproofing seals available. Many of these are simply painted on or rolled on and allowed to dry. Once they are dry, they can provide a seal against water damage to the floor as well as a non-slip seal that can prevent falls from wet flooring.
Bathroom Mirrors
Bathroom mirrors are often overlooked during the bathroom waterproofing process. This is especially true if you are handling the waterproofing as a DIY project. There are usually small spaces between the edge of the mirror and the wall. Water and steam can get into these areas, causing mould, mildew and possible damage to the wall itself. You can avoid this by waterproofing the area with a silicone seal similar to the one you use for the tubs, showers and sinks. This will provide a barrier between the wall and the mirror and prevent the moisture from lingering behind the mirror itself.
These are just a few of the steps of bathroom waterproofing. If you aren't sure if further steps are necessary, contact someone at a company like Westside Sealants Pty Ltd. They can give you a consultation to discuss the renovation options, waterproofing options and the next steps you will need to take. They can also help you with pricing questions and other questions you have.