Protect Your Bathroom from Moisture Damage with Waterproofing Matting

Bathrooms are notoriously damp places. From showers to baths, sinks to steam, they're constantly awash with water. It's great for getting clean, but moisture, if not carefully controlled, can spell disaster for your bathroom. This excess moisture can damage surfaces, and in extreme cases, even cause structural issues. 

A wet room tanking solution like waterproofing matting—a specialised barrier beneath your tiles—is a vital solution to these problems, so let’s take a closer look.

Moisture: The Hidden Threat in Bathrooms

The constant presence of water, whether from showers, baths, or simply humid air, poses a range of risks to your bathroom. Common moisture-related problems include:

• Mould and mildew growth: These unsightly (and potentially harmful) organisms thrive in damp environments, leaving their mark on tile, grout, and even ceilings.

• Structural damage to wood: Wood is a popular building material, but if it's continuously exposed to water, it can start to rot. This weakens the structural integrity of your bathroom, which can create a dangerous safety hazard over time.

• Degraded finishes: Peeling paint, discolouration, and bubbling plaster are all signs of moisture penetration into surfaces where it shouldn't. This not only looks unsightly but can require expensive refinishing.

• Weakened subfloors: The subfloor, the structural base beneath your tiling, can deteriorate due to water absorption, leading to uneven surfaces and potential tile damage.
  
  

Understanding Waterproofing Matting

Waterproofing matting is your secret weapon against moisture-related issues. This specialised layer, typically made of rubber, plastic, or composite membranes, is fitted below your tiles or other floor finishes. It creates an impermeable separation layer that keeps water from reaching and damaging the vulnerable substrate.

Types of Waterproofing Matting

Several options exist to suit different bathroom applications:

Sheet Membranes

These come in waterproofing membrane rolls or sheets made from materials like PVC or polyethylene. They are a popular and easy-to-use choice, available in various sizes (often 1m or larger) to suit different bathroom layouts.

Fabric Membranes

Fabric membranes, often featuring a texture similar to fleece, are bonded to the substrate with adhesive. They offer an added layer of protection on substrates prone to minor cracks and movement, as their flexibility prevents stress cracks from transferring to your tile surfaces.

Liquid-Applied Membranes

These liquid membranes are painted or rolled onto the surface and dry to form a waterproof coating. They are suitable for use in irregularly shaped areas or spaces with lots of penetrations, like pipes. Liquid membranes provide a seamless barrier, which serves as a waterproofing solution for tricky corners.

Benefits of Waterproofing Matting

Investing in waterproofing matting goes a long way in protecting your bathroom, and the advantages aren't just about preventing leaks:

• Protects the foundation: It acts as a shield for your subfloor, walls, and the structure underneath, preventing the kind of water damage that leads to expensive repairs down the road.

• Keeps your surfaces looking great: With proper waterproofing, your tiles, grouting, and other finishes will stay in top shape for years to come. No more replacing tiles or redoing grout because of moisture damage.

• Promotes a healthier bathroom: Waterproofing matting helps keep mould and mildew at bay, creating a more hygienic and breathable space for you and your family.
  
  

The Installation Process

Installing waterproofing matting must generally follow these steps:

1. Prep your surface: Start with a clean, dry, and level surface. Any dust, debris, or uneven areas need to be fixed before you can lay down the matting. This ensures a good, secure bond.

2. Apply a primer: Depending on the specific waterproofing mat you're using, the manufacturer might recommend applying a primer or sealant. This helps the mat stick properly and provides extra protection for your base layer.

3. Apply adhesive: If needed, it's time for the adhesive. Use a notched trowel to spread an even coat of adhesive specifically designed for your waterproofing matting.

4. Lay matting: Carefully lay your matting down, paying close attention to any seams or overlaps—you want a continuous barrier for the best protection. Mats can come in rolls, pre-cut sheets, or even smaller squares.

5. Seal joints and edges: Drain holes, pipes, and those tricky corners are where sneaky leaks happen. Use the right protective sealing tapes and other accessories designed for your matting to make sure everything is completely watertight.

6. Install flooring: Once the waterproofing is fully set (check those manufacturer guidelines), you're ready to lay your beautiful tiles with a waterproof tile adhesive.
   
   

Fitting waterproofing matting can differ slightly depending on the specific product you've chosen, so it's always best to follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. If you have any questions or feel unsure about the process, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional tiler or experienced fitter. 

Ensure a Long-Lasting, High-Performance Result

Waterproofing matting is pretty low maintenance, but to ensure its ongoing effectiveness:

• Inspect regularly: Check for any visible signs of cracking or damage.

• Clean gently: Use mild detergents, avoiding harsh chemicals that could compromise the matting.

• Repair promptly: Address any damage or wear as soon as possible.
  
  

Waterproof Membranes, Matting, and More at Wetroomstop

Waterproofing your bathroom doesn't have to be complicated. Installing waterproofing matting is a relatively straightforward way to shield your bathroom against moisture damage for years to come.

At Wetroomstop, we offer a wide range of top-quality waterproofing materials, ensuring you have everything you need to create a durable, beautiful, and watertight bathroom. We have complete wet room tanking kits, as well as tile backer boards, shower trays, drains, and more.

Explore our range of waterproofing products to give your bathroom the ultimate protection, or contact our helpful team for expert waterproofing advice and guidance.