Tile Waterproofing: Is it Really Necessary?
22 April 2020Tiles that are made from ceramic can be glazed for internal uses, such as the bathroom and living room. This type of tile can also be unglazed for roofing purposes. Given these installation locations, these tiles will mostly be exposed to water. Unfortunately, ceramic tiles can absorb a lot of water that makes them prone to cracking in cold weather.
Other materials like glass, cork, concrete, and stone may also be used for creating tiles. Whatever their compositions are, it would be best for you to consider their intended use and location. Most of the time, tiles will be installed on places that may be drenched in water. This situation begs the question of whether waterproofing the tiles is necessary or not.
Is Tile Waterproofing Necessary?
Yes. Tile waterproofing is necessary for some noteworthy reasons. One of the reasons is that most tile materials have a non-vitreous porosity classification. This classification means that these tiles can easily absorb water and moisture, which can eventually lead to deterioration. Porous tiles should never be used outdoors, especially if your location frequently experiences cold weather. But even if you use non-porous tiles, it is still important for you to waterproof them.
Waterproofing your tiles will help prevent water from seeping through the grout and adhesive into the substrate, and consequently into the surface below them. As a result, any water leaks and damages that may occur on the ceiling, flooring, and walls below the tiles will be completely prevented. Additionally, this waterproofing can effectively protect your property surfaces whenever you have flooded balcony, drenched showers, or faulty drainage.
UV light and humidity fluctuations can also affect the longevity of your tiles. Any effects of these elements may not be prevalent on the surface, but they can already penetrate and destroy the internal layers of your tiles and their below surface. Even water vapours can easily get into your tiling. With waterproofing, any mould formation out of these elements will be prevented entirely. Termites and carpenter ants will also have a hard time penetrating your tiles if you waterproof them.
How to Waterproof your Tiles?
Before waterproofing, your substrate needs to be clean and dry so that your elements can be easily applied. Any rough and porous surfaces must be applied with a primer, while dense and smooth surfaces must be applied with a slurry coat. Once applied, you must allow your surface to dry.
After drying the surface, you can start placing silicone sealant in all internal corners and interfaces of your substrate and then allow it to cure for approximately 12 to 24 hours. Afterward, the reinforcing membrane must be applied and pushed on the corners and interfaces of the tiles. Ensure that no wrinkles or air bubbles will be trapped beneath the membrane. A second membrane must be put on top of the first coating to completely saturate everything before it gets dry.
The process of applying the reinforcing membrane on your main area is the same as the steps involved in internal corners and interfaces. Make sure that the main application will overlap the corner applications by at least 50mm. When the membrane is dry completely, you can now start with your tiling process.
Tile waterproofing is great to ensure that your floors, walls, and ceilings will be protected from any damages out of the water, UV lights, or any humidity changes. For more information about tile waterproofing, just give us a call at Century Tiling & Stone. We can perform all stages of tile installations, including any prep work that is necessary for you to receive the most ideal results.
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