Why Bathroom Waterproofing Is So Important

A bathroom renovation is an exciting step in home improvement. The design stage allows you to exercise creativity by choosing your favourite fixtures, fittings, and materials to deliver your dream layout. The hardest thing about this stage is settling on which items you love most because, in terms of research, there’s plenty of information available to help guide your decision. That isn’t true for every part of renovating bathrooms in Sydney.

Unfortunately, when it comes to waterproofing, information is thinner. It might not be a glamorous step in the renovation process, but it’s one of the most important. The available information is often technical, which makes it difficult for the layperson to parse out. This handy guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information on waterproofing.

Waterproofing Explained

Waterproofing is exactly what it sounds like – transforming a space into something impermeable. Waterproofing is a system that applies an impermeable membrane beneath floorings or behind walls. This membrane prevents any water from getting through to the structure of the house.
In the construction stage, the waterproofing stage includes multiple processes to complete. The first waterproofing measure is the membrane application, and every step after that supports the waterproofing system, from the fixtures and fittings, water-resistant plasterboard, and grout to sealant, water stops, and even the base of the shower or bath.

Why It’s So Important

Bathrooms are almost constantly wet – so failure to properly waterproof can lead to serious structural damage. Whether water is leaking through to the base flooring or seeping through to the walls, once water is in, it starts to wreak havoc, and havoc spreads. A leak through to the wall can damage the wall on the other side, leading to moisture and mould problems throughout your home. It can also swell and rot the structure, making it much more complicated than simply redecorating. Professional waterproofing is the only way to prevent that.

Australian Waterproofing Regulations

AS 3740 is the Australian Standards regulation that governs waterproofing. This regulation details the necessary materials and design for waterproofing and how it should be installed.
The regulation is broken down into three steps. The first section covers the scope of work and the definitions that apply to waterproofing standards. The second section sets out the acceptable materials that can be used for the process of waterproofing walls and floors in wet areas. The third section details how to carry out waterproofing installation and the requirements that dictate the process, including the minimum height standards of 100mm above the bath and 1800mm in a shower cubicle.

Signs of Waterproofing Issues

Poor waterproofing is, unfortunately, an incredibly common issue; despite the strict regulations, not everyone does the job properly, and sometimes DIYers try to save money by doing it themselves. Whether you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation or concerned about the existing state of your waterproofing, there are several signs to look out for to suggest your waterproofing is lacking.

• Mould on the floor or walls
• Mouldy silicone sealant
• Musty smells
• Swelling on the floor or walls
• Soft spots on the walls or floors
• You can hear dripping when you’re not using water
• Insect infestation
• Cracked tiles or wear in your grout
• Damp spots on the floors or walls

If you have one or more of these issues, you have a problem on your hands. It could be a waterproofing problem, or it could be something deeper. Either way, Crystal Bathrooms can help you transform your space into a water-tight oasis.

In cases of serious water damage, the only solution is renovation. It gives you the opportunity to start from scratch. If there are plumbing issues, these can be addressed before renovations take place. Proper waterproofing can further bolster your home’s structural integrity, and you get a whole new bathroom to boot.

When you opt for a total renovation, all of the damaged substrate and flooring will be removed before waterproofing can take place. So, you’re truly starting fresh.

Crystal Bathroom Renovations in Sydney

Whether you have a bathroom renovation design in mind or would like to work with one of our designers to create one from your ideas, Crystal Bathrooms can help. We’ll take you through the entire process, from the early design stages right through to the completion of your bathroom renovations.

You don’t need to worry about hiring different contractors or schedules – our project manager will organise everything, including expert-level waterproofing from a trained professional. We want to deliver the aesthetic you love and ensure a fully functional, safe bathroom that will serve you for years to come.
If you’re ready to take the plunge reach out to our team. With over thirty years of combined experience in the industry, we know how to design and install stunning bathrooms that don’t just meet the standard but exceed your expectations.