The bathroom is one place you cannot escape moisture. Of course a shower itself is tons of moisture, but it also generates steam that can get into your ceilings and walls if they are not properly protected. Rugs on the floor outside of your shower can only do so much to control the water coming off you after a shower. Luckily, there are measures that can be taken to waterproof your bathroom and preserve its integrity.
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Waterproof your bathroom wall
Before installing your finished wall, apply a moisture barrier to help keep those tiny water droplets from reaching your wall material. Moisture barriers are simply large pieces of plastic and are easily cut to fit and install. Consider using stone tiles like ceramic rather than paint or wallpaper. Tiles are beautiful and much more resilient against moisture.
Seal your finished walls with a product appropriate for your wall material. There are hundreds of different products available so carefully research to make sure you are getting the right type of sealant. Use a silicone caulk for all edges and spaces to keep moisture out from behind your walls.
Waterproof your bathroom floor
The last thing in the world you want is a soggy bathroom floor. Using ceramic or porcelain tiles that are properly sealed is your best measure for preventing this problem. Vinyl flooring is also a good option so long as you seal around the edges with caulk. If you have hardwood floors and no plans to remodel soon, applying a polyurethane sealant can be helpful.
Having a rug or mat outside the shower will absorb a lot of water. There is also the added safety benefit of slip prevention. Be sure to clean and air these regularly, however. You don’t want a moldy, mildewed rug to step on after you’ve just gotten clean.
Waterproof your bathroom ceiling
Selecting a specialized waterproof paint is the simplest way to keep moisture from damaging it. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a vent that you can turn on when the moisture level is high to wick the water out of the bathroom. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, create a waterproof mural on your ceiling out of tile! Visit Do It Yourself for more information on ceiling tile.
Other bathroom waterproofing tips:
- Open doors and windows immediately after a shower to let some moisture escape.
- Use greenboard in your bathroom rather than regular sheetrock.
- Monitor your plumbing for any leaks. A slow leak behind your wall can cause loads of damage!
Waterproof the whole bathroom!
Some people enjoy listening to the radio or even watching television while in the shower. It almost goes without saying that you should make sure these appliances are made to withstand moisture. Be very careful when using any electronic device in the proximity of water to follow all safety precautions. Your waterproofed bathroom isn’t much good if you aren’t around to use it!
It is truly a tragedy when your carefully planned investment is destroyed by water damage. Implementing these techniques in your bathroom will prolong its life and reduce the amount of repair and maintenance required. Care and planning now saves cost and headache later. Waterproofing your bathroom isn’t difficult…you just have to know how to do it!
