You are doing so much to update the look and feel of your bathroom. It’s amazing how much an update will do for the property value of your home. That is why you have worked so hard to make it happen. The only thing left is to finish up that shower with a waterproof liner. However, it won’t be so easy as lashing on any old liner and calling it good. You need a waterproof liner for your shower, which means you should take special measures to ensure that it remains waterproof.
That is where this article comes in handy! We have put together these tips on how to waterproof line a shower and how to install a brand new liner without worrying about water damage again! Check out the helpful advice ahead.
Know Before You Go
There are a few things you should know before you start waterproofing that shower. First and foremost, you need to know what kind of shower you are starting with. Where did it come from? What materials were used? What condition is it in? These are questions you need to ask and know. Next, you want to know about the materials you will need for the project.
You want to make sure to have everything you need on hand before you start, as you do not want to have to stop mid-project to get anything. You should also make sure you have adequate space to work. You do not want to be in a hurry to finish up and have to work with inadequate space. That can lead to mistakes and poor work.
Decide on a Shower Pan
The first step in waterproofing that shower is deciding on what shower pan you want to use. A shower pan is the bottom portion of the shower that the tile goes on top of. Shower pans come in a few different materials and styles. You want to choose one that will suit your needs and the intended use of your shower.
Some common types of shower pans include fiberglass, concrete, and plastic. Fiberglass shower pans are lightweight and easy to install. However, they tend to be on the expensive side and may not stand the test of time. Concrete shower pans are the most durable of the bunch. But, they will take a bit more time and effort to install. Plastic shower pans are the most budget friendly. They are easy to install and are incredibly durable.
Install the Drain and Shower Flange
Another important step in waterproofing that shower is installing the shower flange. The shower flange is the piece of equipment that secures the drain and keeps the water inside the shower itself.
A few things to keep in mind when installing this piece are:
- The flange must be level to work properly: It will help to use a bubble level to make sure of this.
- Check for leaks: Install a washer and make sure it does not leak.
- Level the drain: The drain must be level to work properly.
- Install the shower flange: Use plumber’s putty to make sure it stays in place.
Seal the Tile Edging
Next, you want to seal the tile edging. The tile edging is the border between the tiles and the rest of the shower. This is also where water can seep in and create a leak in your shower. To prevent that, you want to seal that tile edging.
A few things to keep in mind when sealing the tile edging are:
- Make sure it is clean before you seal it: A dirty tile edging will not seal properly.
- Use a silicone-based sealer: It will last longer and remain effective longer.
Lay the Tiling Shower Floor
Next, you want to lay the tiling shower floor. You can do this however you like. You can lay individual tiles or go with a prefabricated flooring option.
However, when laying that tiling, make sure you do the following:
- Make sure the flooring is level: You want the water to drain evenly and not pool.
- Seal the grout: Seal the grout so the water does not get trapped there.
- Install a shower spray: Install a shower spray to help with the water flow.
- Install a threshold: Install a threshold at the shower entrance to keep water from getting in.
Add the Waterproofing Membrane
Finally, you want to add the waterproofing membrane. The best way to do this is to lay the membrane over the entire shower floor. You can use either a premade or a do-it-yourself membrane.
Once you have the membrane in place, you want to do the following:
- Clean the tile and floor: Make sure it is free of any dirt or debris.
- Roll out the membrane: Make sure it is evenly rolled out and not wrinkled.
- Cut the excess: Cut off the excess membrane so it does not overlap.
- Apply silicone: Apply silicone to the membrane and let it dry.
Conclusion
A brand new shower is a beautiful thing. It is even more beautiful when you know it is waterproof. A waterproof shower will look good for years to come and keep you safe from water damage. All you need to do is follow these steps to waterproof that shower.
