FT NEWS

Water has a tendency to find the shortest route to travel, so the main aim of a watertight bathroom should be to prevent water penetration through the floor bed or the walls. Constant leakage or dampness can not only rot the structural steel members of the slab and cause damage to the building but also result in unhygienic living conditions. In order to achieve a maintenance-free and cost-effective bathroom for years, some good planning is essential during the construction phase itself.

Install porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are excellent for floors and walls as they are impervious to leakages because of a high density quotient. Studies indicate that the water absorption by porcelain tiles ranges between 0.001 to 0.5 per cent of their weight, which is the least compared to tiles of other materials. Also, these tiles have a glazed coating in glossy or matte finish, which makes them waterproof and does not permit absorption. Due to this, water remains on the surface of the tile.

Use epoxy grouting for tile joints
When laying tiles, ensure that there is a gap of at least 2 mm between each tile, and that the joints are filled with a grout.

Epoxy grouting is very effective; its primary ingredients include epoxy resins and a filler powder that make it durable, stain-resistant, anti-bacterial, resistant to cracking, waterproof and able to withstand harsh cleaning. Epoxy grouts are available in multiple colour options; opt for a colour that will match with the tile. After tiling a surface, make sure that the tile adhesive has hardened for at least 24 hours before you apply the grout.

No gaps in the pipe joints
Most bathrooms are designed with concealed PVC pipelines. Their pipe joints are prone to leakages. As a precaution, it is important to seal these joints with waterproofing tape. Ensure that there are no gaps at the joints or where there is a bend in the pipes.

Provide a gentle slope to the floor
It is important you provide an adequate slope towards the drain for successful drainage of water. An ideal slope ranges between 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch per running foot. This gentle slope allows the waste water to drain away effectively. Rapid water flow helps prevent drain clogging or stagnant water problems that may allow water to penetrate the floor slab and walls. In addition, consider bringing in multiple drainage points between the wet and the dry areas.

Fix tiles with waterproof adhesives
The traditional method of fixing tiles with cement and sand has been replaced with the use of tile adhesives. This is a ready-mixed cementitious dry powder that is mixed with water to form a paste that is used for fixing the tiles. It is rapid-hardening and has enhanced waterproofing properties that protect the slab from water penetration.

Seal with elastomeric sealants
Silicone sealants are highly recommended in areas such as where the bathtub or the sink meets the tiles or around the edge of a shower panel. This material is flexible and durable, with excellent water resistance that makes it ideal for sealing joints and cracks. Used properly, sealants are an effective way to plug any leaks that may arise in the joints between two different materials or surfaces.

Go for waterproof paint
Bathrooms are exposed to a lot of moisture and humidity so it is wise to select a semi-gloss or waterproof paint for the non-tiled surface and the ceiling. Such finishes have a shiny surface and are resistant to fungal growth caused by dampness.

Also consider paints with water beading technology (available with paint companies like Asian Paints). The hydrophobic (water-repellent) nature of this paint does not permit any absorption of water that may cause dampness to the walls and forces the water to roll down as little beads.