Waterproofing wet rooms such as your kitchen and bathroom are essential, as moisture can lead to mould and damage your property – especially if unnoticed. Showers are particularly susceptible to moisture infiltration, and need to be sealed effectively to ensure they are waterproof. Waterproof membranes are typically installed along the shower walls, as well as in the shower basin. Sealing must also include the grout which is applied in a tiled bathroom between individual tiles, as well as the shower base and walls.

Grout is a mortar that is used to fill cavities, typically between tiles. It is a mixture of water, cement, and sand – and needs to be sealed. Water can seep through unsealed grout and if left unchecked can collect and move via capillary action to affect large areas behind the tiles.

In a tiled bathroom follow these guidelines to ensure your shower is sealed and thoroughly waterproof:

• walls and floors should be clean and dry
• apply appropriate waterproof membrane
• tile wall and ensure grout dries fully
• apply sealant to the grout
• if applicable apply sealant to the tiles (unglazed)

Find a waterproofer in your local area on the pages of this site.