Whether you are renovating or building a new home, it’s essential that you make sure your bathroom is waterproofed properly. Showers and bathrooms that are incorrectly waterproofed or have no waterproof membrane at all can cause major problems down the track that are both inconvenient and costly to repair. Budget Plumbing Centre Perth has all the bathroom supplies and bathroom accessories you need to complete your bathroom renovation.Construction is costly, so it’s vital to take all the steps in the beginning to ensure you don’t end up with problems in the future. Waterproofing is one step that must be done properly, here we will run through what waterproofing is and why it’s so important.
What is Waterproofing?
Waterproofing involves the application of a suitable membrane product to ensures no moisture can escape from the wet area into other parts of the home. It is typically required anywhere there is a water outlet which includes bathrooms, showers and baths in particular, laundries and kitchen wet areas.
What Are the Australian Waterproofing Regulations?
While regulations vary between states, generally, waterproofing must be applied in accordance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Australian Standards (AS 3740-1994). These stipulate that:
• Shower floors must be totally waterproofed and shower walls must be waterproofed up to a height of 1,800mm.
• Bathroom walls must be waterproofed up to a height of 150mm.
• Any step down from a shower to the floor must be waterproofed to a height of at least 100mm.
• If the bathroom is not on the ground floor, the entire bathroom floor must be waterproofed.
• If the bathroom floor contains any wood, the entire bathroom floor must be waterproofed.
A Water Leak Can Cause Many Issues
Damage to Your Home
Incorrect or an absence of waterproofing causes issues that will only get worse over time leading to significant to damage that requires expensive repairs or a full renovation. Water seeping into the spaces behind the bathroom walls can result in:
• Mildew and mould
• Water damage to furnishings, carpets and paintwork in surrounding rooms
• Extensive structural damage to your property
A proper waterproof membrane will ensure water stays within the wet area and doesn’t penetrate to areas where it can cause damage.
Health and Safety Concerns
A build-up of moisture in the walls and floor of your home creates the ideal conditions for mould and mildew to grow and thrive. While mould and mildew are unsightly, they can also cause a wide range of respiratory problems and other illnesses. A water leak in your bathroom can leave your home vulnerable and can pose a significant health risk to your family.
Insurance Problems
If it is proven that you failed to waterproof your bathroom correctly, your insurance company many state that this is due to negligence and as such,won’t cover the required repairs. This could leave you thousands of dollars out of pocket. Professional waterproofing done by experts is the best way to ensure that you comply with the terms of your insurance.
Should I DIY or Engage Professionals?
There are many affordable DIY waterproofing kits on the market which claim to be effective, if you choose to go down this path it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. To ensure you get a long-lasting, high quality job and a professional finish, the ideal solution is to engage a professional waterproofing contractor. Not only will this give you peace of mind that the job is done correctly, they will likely supply a warranty on their workmanship.
When renovating, it’s vital your bathroom is properly waterproofed. Water leaks can cause major damage not only to your bathroom, but to your whole home and even your health.
For bathroom supplies at Perth’s best prices, visit Budget Plumbing Centre today. With 2 convenient locations in Belmont and Bibra Lake, browse our range of affordable bathroom products in-store or shop bathroom accessories online now.
