How to Waterproof Bathroom Walls

Having a waterproof bathroom is essential in preventing the development of mould and damp, as well as more serious structural issues such as cracks. Choosing waterproof wall coverings like bathroom wall panels will help enormously, but you also need to ensure what is underneath those panels is also waterproof – particularly if you are fitting your new panels on top of existing tiles. This blog will look at how to achieve this.

Why Should Waterproof Your Bathroom Walls?

Water can be extremely destructive and, as mentioned above, can cause mould, damp, rot, and structural problems such as cracks and even subsidence – if the water is continually seeping into your walls. A waterproofed bathroom is one which is safe, sound, and hygienic. It will also be easier to clean!

Tools I will Need to Waterproof

If you have chosen to install PVC bathroom wall panels over the top of traditional tiles to create your waterproof bathroom, you will need the following tools:

• Clean, damp cloth and hot soapy water

• Grout

• Grout application tool

• Wall adhesive

• Your chosen National Plastics wall panels

Steps to Waterproofing Bathroom Walls

Once you have your tools, you can now start waterproofing your bathroom walls.

1. First, clean the tiled area thoroughly using a damp cloth and hot soapy water.

2. You now need to look closely at the grout between the existing tiles. You are looking for any gaps or cracks which may indicate a problem with your tiled wall’s waterproofing.

3. If you do spot any gaps or cracks in the grout, use your grouting tool to carefully apply grout to these places to make your tiles watertight.

4. Once your grout is dry, you can install your new PVC wall panels directly on top of your newly grouted tiles.

How to Waterproof Shower Walls

Whilst ensuring your bathroom walls are waterproof is important, it is imperative that the walls which surround your shower are completely watertight, as they must be able to withstand constant flows of water on a regular basis.

Follow the above steps to ensure the walls are waterproofed, but you also need to ensure your shower is sealed.

1. Firstly, remove any old sealant from around the shower with a Stanley knife. Whilst this may be fiddly, persevere as you need to ensure all old, worn sealant is gone before applying new. Be careful not to scratch tiles, panels, or the shower tray.

2. Clean the area thoroughly and wait for it to dry.

3. Mark out the area to which you need to apply new sealant. This can be done with masking

4. tape.

5. Now you can apply new sealant – following the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Wait for the new sealant to dry completely before using your shower.

How much does it cost to Waterproof Bathroom walls?

The cost of waterproofing your walls will depend on the condition of your walls and existing wall covering, and the wall panels you choose. However, as mentioned previously, not waterproofing your bathroom walls can lead to damage such as mould, damp, and rot, which will cost far more to rectify than ensuring your walls are waterproof in the first place.

Best Practices for Waterproofing

• Choose PVC wall panels for the most waterproof wall covering.

• Ensure walls are properly prepared before fitting your new PVC wall panels.

• If you choose to paint your walls, use a high-quality waterproof paint.

• Regularly monitor your walls so any issues are identified and rectified early.

As well as ensuring your walls are waterproof, there are other ways to protect your bathroom from condensation:

• Install a wall fan to help expel warm, damp air.

• Regularly open the window to encourage a flow of clean air through the room.

• Use a bathmat when getting out of the shower and bath.

• Wipe away any excess water on the floor.

• Use a tight-fitting shower door/curtain to ensure water does not escape.

View Our Bathroom and Shower Wall Panels

Our collection of PVC wall panels offers a 100% waterproof wall covering for your bathroom. To find out more or if you have any queries about how to waterproof your home, call our friendly, expert team today on 0800 22 77 77.