Glossary

Bathroom waterproofing

Sheet under review by our engineers

This refers to the set of technical measures (often layers of special products) to prevent water from seeping through the walls and floor of your bathroom. It's essential to protect other rooms and the structure of your house.

Why it matters for your home

Good waterproofing prevents water damage, mold, musty smells, and the degradation of your home's structure. Faulty waterproofing can lead to leaks into neighboring rooms or downstairs, causing very costly and unhealthy repairs. This is a critical point that absolutely must not be overlooked.

The African context

Water is often wasted or poorly managed in bathrooms, and showers are used frequently, which highlights the need for flawless waterproofing. Too often, this step is ignored or rushed to save money, leading to quick and significant water damage. The products used must be of good quality and correctly applied to clean surfaces.

Red flags

  • The contractor doesn't mention a specific step for waterproofing the shower walls or bathroom floor before tiling.
  • The use of simple cement mortar without a waterproofing additive, or unsuitable products.
  • The absence of waterproofing upstands (the waterproofing layer that goes up slightly on the walls).
  • Cracks or poorly done joints around drains (floor drain, shower wastes).

Questions to ask

  • 1. "What products and methods do you use to waterproof the shower and bathroom floor?"
  • 2. "Will you create waterproofing upstands on the shower walls?"
  • 3. "How do you ensure waterproofing around pipes and drains?"

Cost hint (indicative)

From 3,000 to 10,000 FCFA/m² (supply and installation of waterproofing render or membrane), cost usually included in 'bathroom' items but needs specific verification.

At this stage of your project?

An independent DiasporaBuild inspector can verify on site before you pay.