A sound, clean surface
A membrane is only as good as what it's applied to. Surfaces need to be solid, clean and prepared, with gaps and joints dealt with first, so the membrane can bond properly.
Wet-area waterproofing
Bathroom waterproofing in Wollongong, the layer that protects everything else.
In a properly constructed wet area, a waterproof membrane beneath the tiles keeps water out of the floors and walls around it. Waterproofing is at the heart of what Gaffneys does, and Paul brings 25 years' experience to wet areas across Wollongong and the Illawarra.
- 25 years' experience
- NSW Licence 72413S
- Licensed & insured
Inspiration image
Beneath the surface
What's typically under a shower floor.
A tiled shower looks like one solid surface, but a properly constructed wet area is built in layers. Move the slider through this simplified example.
Simplified educational example, not a construction detail. The actual arrangement of substrate, screed, adhesive and membrane varies with the waterproofing system and the job.
Use the slider or arrow keys to move down through the layers.
Tiles and grout
The finished surface you see and clean. Tiles and grout look solid, but they aren't a waterproofing layer on their own. Water can find its way through grout and fine gaps over time.
The tile bed
What the tiles are set into, such as adhesive or a screed bed, depending on the system. On a shower floor, the layers are usually shaped so water falls towards the floor waste. In some systems the membrane sits above this layer, in others below it.
The waterproof membrane
In a properly constructed wet area, this is the layer that does the waterproofing. It's applied across the wet area and carried up the walls where required, so water that gets past the tiles doesn't reach the structure of the home.
The substrate
The floor and wall structure that the other layers are built on. Whatever the system, it needs to be sound, clean and properly prepared for the waterproofing to do its job.
Why preparation matters
Good waterproofing is decided before the membrane goes on.
Water that drains away
Where there's a floor waste, the floor should fall towards it so water drains instead of pooling. Getting the falls right is part of the groundwork, not something added at the end.
Corners, junctions and edges
Where walls meet floors, around hobs and baths, and where pipes come through, are the places that take the most care. They're also where problems can start if they're rushed.
Time to cure
Most membranes need time to cure before tiling starts. How long depends on the product and conditions, and it's one step that shouldn't be hurried.
These photos show genuine Gaffneys jobs at the tiling stage and illustrate the principles above. Waterproofing beneath tiles can't be seen in them, so they aren't shown as proof of it.
Where waterproofing matters
Showers, bathrooms and wet areas.
Gaffneys provides waterproofing membranes for showers, bathrooms and wet areas. Every space is different, so tell Paul about yours and he'll let you know how Gaffneys can help.
- ShowersThe area that takes the most water, from the floor up the walls.
- Bathroom floorsBeyond the shower, where splashes and spills land.
- Other wet areasWhat applies depends on the room and its layout, so ask Paul about yours.
Worth a closer look
Signs a wet area may need attention.
These don't always mean waterproofing has failed, but they're worth having checked before small problems grow.
- Cracked or missing groutGaps that let water get behind the tiles.
- Loose or hollow-sounding tilesTiles that move, or sound hollow when tapped.
- Mould or a musty smellEspecially if it keeps coming back after cleaning.
- Stains or bubbling paint nearbyOn walls next to the shower or bathroom.
- Marks on the ceiling belowWater stains under an upstairs bathroom.
- Swollen skirting or door framesTimber near the wet area that has swelled or softened.
Think your shower is already leaking? Leak repairs have their own page, and Paul also runs a dedicated leaking shower website.
“They re-waterproofed our shower and they did a great job. The guys were all professional and cleaned up after themselves. The shower looks great. I definitely recommend them.”
Contacting Gaffneys
Getting in touch about waterproofing.
Get in touch if
- You're planning a renovation or new bathroom
- A wet area needs waterproofing before tiling
- You've noticed any of the signs above
Helpful to include
- Photos of the area, close up and wide
- Where you've noticed water or damage, if any
- The type of room and your suburb
What happens next
- Your request goes to Paul
- He'll contact you to talk about the job
- It's a quote request, not a booking
Waterproofing FAQs
Waterproofing, explained simply.
Have a question about your own wet area? Paul is happy to talk it through.
Call 0432 685 338What does waterproofing actually do?
It stops water getting into the structure of your home. Tiles and grout give you a surface to use and clean. In a properly constructed wet area, the membrane beneath them is what keeps water out of the floors, walls and rooms around it.
Is waterproofing required in a bathroom?
Yes. Waterproofing of wet areas in Australian homes is covered by the National Construction Code, which refers to Australian Standard AS 3740. Exactly what's required depends on the room and its layout.
Is sealing grout the same as waterproofing?
No. Sealing and fresh silicone help keep grout clean and in good condition, but they don't replace the membrane underneath. For tired grout and silicone, see regrouting and sealing.
How long before tiles can go on?
The membrane needs to cure first. How long that takes depends on the product and the conditions, and Paul will talk you through it for your job.
How is this different from leaking shower repair?
This page is about waterproofing as part of building or renovating a wet area. If an existing shower is already leaking, see leaking showers.
Which areas do you cover?
Gaffneys is based in Wollongong and works across the Illawarra. Include your suburb when you get in touch and we'll let you know.
Tell us about your project
A quote request, not a booking. Paul will contact you to arrange next steps.
Request received
Thanks, we've got it.
Paul will review your details and contact you to talk about your project. This is not a confirmed appointment. If it's urgent, call 0432 685 338.