Six tips for waterproofing your bathroom
Every element of your bathroom is at risk from water damage. Thorough waterproofing protects not only the tiles and fixtures, but also structural components like plaster and brickwork. The smallest leak can cause mould and rot, leaving you with expensive repairs. Here are six precautions you can take.
1. Use the right sealant
Remove any old sealant and dry all surfaces. Use a gun to apply a fresh layer of silicone bathroom sealant in a smooth, even bead along all corners and joints. Make a neat finish with a damp finger. Leave the sealant to cure fully before exposing it to water.
2. Check floor gradients
Ensure that the floor slopes towards the shower or bath drain at a sufficient angle to guide the water away and prevent puddling or seepage beneath the tiles.
3. Install an extractor fan
Humidity levels can get very high in bathrooms. An extractor fan is an effective way of reducing condensation and preventing mould growth. Set the fan to switch on automatically whenever the shower is turned on.
4. Seal around pipes and fittings
Moisture will find its way into the smallest of spaces, so you should check and, if necessary, use bathroom sealant to reseal the danger points, such as where pipes feed into the room.
5. Strengthen tile grout
Improve the moisture resistance and extend the life of tile grouting with a waterproof grout sealer.
6. Waterproof baths, sinks, and basins
Refresh the seals on edges where fixtures abut walls and worktops. Inspect them and reseal them regularly.
