When you finally move into your long-awaited dream home, renovation becomes a major part of your life. Among all the renovation tasks, there is one crucial yet often overlooked aspect—waterproofing. Although it doesn’t contribute directly to the visual appeal of your home, its impact on the overall renovation quality is significant.
Today, we’re sharing some key waterproofing knowledge to help you with your home improvement!
1. Which Areas Require Waterproofing?
Any area exposed to water needs proper waterproofing. Common areas include:
Bathroom: The top priority for waterproofing, requiring special attention.
Kitchen: Although water usage is lower, waterproofing should not be ignored.
Balcony: Being exposed to wind and rain, balconies need extra waterproof protection.
Basement, Roof, and Exterior Walls: These are also critical areas for waterproofing.
2. How to Choose the Right Waterproofing Material?
Home waterproofing involves multiple areas with complex structures, including pipes and corners. Consider these factors when selecting materials:
Ease of Application: Opt for materials that are simple and suitable for home projects.
Reliability: Choose high-performance, durable waterproofing materials.
Ease of Repair: Materials should allow easy fixes in case of defects.
Flexibility: Waterproofing layers must adapt to structural movements over time.
Different materials suit different areas, so choose accordingly based on specific needs.
3. Best Time for Waterproofing Application
Waterproofing should be applied directly onto the structural base layer. Ideally, it should begin right after plumbing and electrical work are completed.
Once waterproofing is done, it’s recommended to apply a polymer mortar protective layer before tiling. This helps safeguard the waterproofing layer and extends its lifespan.
4. Standard Waterproofing Heights for Bathrooms
Shower area: Waterproofing height should be at least 1.8 meters.
Other bathroom walls: Minimum height should be 0.3 meters.
Sink area: Recommended waterproofing height of at least 1.2 meters.
Many homeowners now opt for a uniform 1.8-meter waterproofing height for all bathroom walls, which enhances overall protection.
5. Key Considerations for Waterproofing Application
To ensure the best results, pay attention to the following:
✅ Surface Preparation: Ensure the base layer is clean and dry before application.
✅ Temperature Control: Apply waterproofing at temperatures between 5°C to 35°C, avoiding extreme heat, cold, or rainy weather.
✅ Proper Mixing: Most waterproof coatings do not require additional water—simply mix according to the package instructions.
✅ Usage Time: Once mixed, waterproofing materials should be used within one hour. Do not add water to hardened mixtures.
✅ Application Thickness: Avoid applying too thick a layer at once, especially around pipes and corners, to prevent cracking due to uneven drying.
Waterproofing may be an "invisible project," but it plays a crucial role in ensuring long-term comfort in your home. We hope these waterproofing tips help make your renovation process smoother and more secure! ???
