One of the essential steps in making your bathroom watertight is waterproofing the floor. To do this, you’ll need an unmodified thin-set mortar. First, you’ll need to apply the mortar to the substrate or membrane. After the mortar has been set, you’ll need to add an uncoupling membrane. You’ll also need to install a waterproof membrane to prevent water from leaking under the tiles. Using a modified thin-set mortar can cause long drying times, as the mortar relies on air to cure.
Glass based walls
Installing glass-based walls in your bathroom is a great way to protect it against water damage. The material is exceptionally resistant to moisture and won’t trap it, making it the perfect option to combat excess moisture. However, you will have to spend a lot of money to install glass walls in your bathroom.
The benefits of using glass walls in your bathroom include being easy to clean and more affordable than other materials. They also take less time to install and are usually watertight when dry. Using glass walls in your bathroom can also add decorative value to the room. Frameless glass partitions can make your bathroom look brighter and larger. These walls are often used in modern bathrooms. You can also use frosted or etched glass instead of clear glass if you want to add a touch of style to the room.
PVC baseboards
Bathroom baseboards provide a watertight seal between the bathroom floor and wall. Without baseboards, water can pool on the floor, damaging the walls and floor’s appearance.
If you’re considering replacing your bathroom floor, PVC is a great option. These waterproof baseboards don’t look like plumbing pipes and come in many different styles. Some even mimic wood grain or match the look of existing white MDF baseboards. Home Depot carries a wide selection of PVC baseboards.
Caulking is also essential to the watertight bathroom build and requires expert hands and patience. Applying the caulk correctly prevents the walls and floor from becoming cracked and soaked.
Fabbed tub and shower panels
Installing Fabbed tub and shower panels is simple and can make your bathroom watertight and leak-proof. First, remove the existing wall and corner panels to install these panels. Mark the left and right sides of the panels and then apply adhesive along the edges. Once the adhesive is dry, use a trowel to spread the adhesive evenly and make sure that the panels are fully engaged with the surrounding surface. Next, install the panels as directed by the manufacturer. Afterward, install the shower rod and curtain.
If you’re considering laminated tub and shower panels, they are one of the most affordable options. These panels and waterproofing also come in various interior design styles and textures, including faux grout joints.
Silicone-based caulk
Silicone-based caulk is a versatile material that can be used for various applications. It is especially effective for sealing around plumbing fixtures and as a waterproofing material for your home. Not only will it minimize drafts, but it will also keep rodents and insects out. Unlike polyurethane, silicone caulk is flexible and will not crack easily.
Before using silicone-based caulk for your bathroom, you should prepare the area and remove moisture from it. Next, squeeze the caulking gun to release a small sealant and place it in the desired crevice. After that, apply the caulk with pencil-sized beads.
Grouts
There are several options when it comes to grout. You can use penetrating grout sealers or epoxy grout, both of which have pros and cons. The color of grout is also essential, as it can make or break the design of your bathroom. You should choose a color that suits your personality and complements the rest of your bathroom design.
Grout is a porous material, so it can be tricky to make it watertight. Grout must be mixed correctly, and it should be applied according to directions. Grout with latex is more waterproof, but it is still porous. To make the grout waterproof, you must also apply a sealant. This agent will act as a varnish on the grout and should be used after it’s completely dry. It should be applied at least every couple of years.
Ceilings
Bathroom ceilings are a crucial component of a waterproof bathroom. They can prevent water vapor and moisture from entering the room, preventing unpleasant odors and stains from forming. Many use wood for bathroom ceilings, but this material must be protected from moisture to avoid cracking or warping. Fortunately, several different materials can serve as bathroom ceilings.
Another option is to install a false glass ceiling. False glass ceilings are sound and thermal-insulating and can help reduce the echo in the bathroom. Also, they can reduce the need for artificial lighting in your bathroom, which will lower your electric bills. If you have a small budget, you can choose fiberglass, which is water-resistant when cured.
Paint
Water-based epoxy paint is a good choice for this purpose. It is a heavy-duty water-resistant product that will protect your walls and tile from moisture. It covers 15 square feet in one application and is easy to clean. Once dry, it leaves a hard-wearing finish. Previously, people believed semi-gloss paint was moisture-resistant, but modern research shows that flat paint is just as effective.
A few types of waterproof paint are available, and choosing the right one will depend on your needs. Waterproof paints are more expensive than regular ones but are of high quality. While the amount of thick sealed paint in bathrooms is much lower than that in standard rooms, regular paints with anti-microbial additives will still be able to protect your walls from moisture and mold.