Waterproofing

Tile and stone are among the most opulent and sustainable materials available. In correctly installed showers, the materials have no volatile organic compounds and can have a lifecycle of up to 50 years.

Most problems that occur with showers are completely avoidable and are due to mistakes in the waterproofing process. Not only are the consequences of an improperly waterproofed shower detrimental to your home, they are also detrimental to your health. Moisture trapped in a dark area breeds mold, which can pose a serious health risk. Moisture also attracts destructive insects such as termites and carpenter ants that can do incredible amounts of damage to your home before detection and are costly to exterminate.

At Creative Tiles, we use the latest waterproofing technologies to ensure your shower lasts for years to come. With many options to choose from, there is a suitable method for every budget.

ELASTOMERIC OR LIQUID WATERPROOFING MEMBRANES 

Elastomeric or liquid waterproofing membranes are one of the most convenient and cost-effective methods of waterproofing shower walls before installing tile. These membranes consist of products such as Redgard® and Laticrete®

An elastomeric waterproofing membrane creates a continuous waterproofing barrier with outstanding adhesion and reduces crack transmission in tile and stone floors. It bonds directly to clean metal drains, PVC, stainless steel and ABS drain assemblies and can be used as a slab-on-grade moisture vapor barrier under all types of floor coverings. These materials can be applied with a regular paint brush to your shower walls then tile is installed directly onto it. When these products are used, a cement-based backerboard as the wall substrate without a plastic vapor barrier is recommended.

TILE BACKER

1/2" Diamondback® or DensShield® Tile Backer is used behind tiles in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries, utility rooms and kitchens. These products consist of  high performance, water-resistant gypsum board.

SCHLUTER®-KERDI

KERDI is waterproof and resistant to most chemicals commonly encountered in tiled environments. It is resistant to aging and will not rot.

KERDI is suitable for wall and floor surfaces where protection against the penetration of moisture or other harmful substances is necessary. Applications include showers, intermittent use steam showers, and tub surrounds.

THE SCHLUTER®-KERDI SHOWER KIT

Although more expensive than some other systems, the integrated Schluter®-Shower System eliminates the potential for leakage, efflorescence (a whitish crystalline or powdery deposit on grout lines and tile surfaces,) and mold growth in the system. It is also maintenance-free and dramatically reduces total installation time. Schluter prefabricated shower substrates provide an alternative to shower bases constructed of mortar.