The latest codes of practice released in July 2018 by the British Standards Institute (bsi) for BS 5385-1 (wall and floor tiling in normal internal conditions) have resulted in a positive change in regulations overseeing works in wet areas.
Under the new revision, all substrates should now be waterproofed before tiling, even in domestic locations.
Why is Waterproofing Important?
A wet area is any wet room, bathroom, shower area, steam room, or other location that is subjected to frequent water contact.
Although these rooms/spaces tend to be tiled, the substrates the tiles are being fixed to (such as plaster, plasterboard, or some proprietary backer boards) are often moisture-sensitive.
The British Standards now advocate the use of tanking membranes to protect them.
Tiles alone are insufficient to stop water from getting through to the substrate. It is a common misconception that cementitious adhesives and grouts are waterproof. However, most are only water-resistant. Cementitious adhesives and grouts are popular choices for fixing tiles, and their porous nature allows moisture to pass through. Over time, water is absorbed through the grout joints and adhesive bed, and then into underlying substrates.
If the substrate is unprotected, it can lead to damp and mould issues. As time progresses, this can even cause problems with adjoining rooms and/or cause tiles to de-bond, which can become costly.
British Standards already supported waterproofing in commercial wet areas, but under the new BS 5385-1:2018 clause 6.1.1.3 for “Tanking”, it will now also be recommended to waterproof domestic locations as well. So, whenever you’re retiling a bathroom, shower, or other wet areas, remember to apply a suitable proprietary tanking membrane system first.
Not following the BSI guidance can become costly. With the new standards, installers could be as accountable for repairs in domestic areas as they are for commercial locations.
This includes not only the tiled wet area but also adjoining rooms.
WSC Plumbing carries out all installations per the BS 5385-1 Waterproofing Regulations.
