Waterproofing Concrete Shower Floor Before Tiling

If cement is not waterproofed it can cause issues with the mortar used between the tiles.

Waterproofing concrete shower floor before tiling.

Whether you re laying down a new tile floor or installing a shower you may use a sheathing material such as backerboard. Waterproofing concrete is a fairly simple procedure. Take some water and mop the surface to remove any dirt dust or small debris. Prepare the existing walls for the tile installation.

Cement is actually a very porous material and can easily absorb water. Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond. Backup waterproof layer under mud and behind the board. Continue sprinkling until the floor is lightly dampened all the way across.

You will need to use an acid based solution like muriatic acid to rough up the surface if the top of the concrete is still smooth. Water can penetrate through cement based grout and work its way through the substrate. Sprinkle a small amount of water onto the floor. Use a plumber s pan and drain to encapsulate the shower floor.

The thickness of the pour makes a difference in how fast it will cure. You can also use plywood we typically call the tile people to put a mud bed sloped to the drain before we get going. Once all the mortar has cured tiling can commence. Let the surface of the concrete completely dry before installing tile.

Cover the tub with a dropcloth and tape the edges flat to the surrounding surfaces to seal the cloth in place. There are two types of waterproof membranes sheet and liquid applied options. This is the last line of defense. To prevent water damage you must install a waterproof membrane just below the tile bonding mortar as close to the tile as possible.

Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor. There are rapid curing versions that can be used to speed it up. It is not structural but it must be non compressible. Smooth the membrane with the trowel.

Remove any items from your walls such as shelves trim or. The concern is shrinkage in the concrete as it cures in its early stages. The general rule is to wait 28 days for concrete to cure before installing tile over it. If water penetrates and leaves a wet spot then a good bond can be achieved.

Therefore any concrete that may come into regular contact with water such as under tile or for a pool will need to be waterproofed. How to waterproof seal a shower tub before tile step 1. To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration. Install the preformed curb covering it with mortar and waterproof membrane.

You can use shims and glue to slope plywood not in the book but it works.