A beautiful bathroom is a must-have in every home, but if not properly waterproofed, it can lead to seepage problems in your house, ruining the aesthetic appeal and causing damage to the lower floors or walls. However, this issue can be easily avoided if you know how to do proper waterproofing.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through the process of waterproofing your bathroom in the simplest way possible, so you don’t get tricked by contractors or labourers.
Step 1: Timing is Everything
Waterproofing should be done at the right stage of construction. This is before plumbing work has been completed. If you’re renovating your bathroom and changing the flooring, you need to remove the flooring and debris until you reach the slab or lintel. The waterproofing must be done directly on the slab to be effective.
Step 2: Who Will Do the Waterproofing?
In most cases, your civil contractor or mason will handle the waterproofing. Many people mistakenly think the plumber is responsible, but it’s actually the job of the mason or contractor. If you’re doing a bathroom renovation and want waterproofing done separately, there are specialized companies that offer this service. However, they can be expensive, so it’s often better to rely on your mason if you’re on a budget.
Step 3: Cleaning the Area
Once your slab is visible, you need to clean it thoroughly. Use a wire brush to scrub any cement stains, dust, or debris off the slab. This ensures there’s no dirt that could prevent the waterproofing from adhering properly. After brushing, use a broom or mop to clean the area, and make sure the slab is completely visible.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Waterproofing Chemical
The most commonly used waterproofing chemical is Dr. Fixit 3001. You can buy this at any hardware or paint store for around ₹350-₹400 per liter. One liter typically covers 10 square feet, so measure your bathroom area and buy a bit extra (around 10% more for the borders).
Step 5: Mixing the Chemical
Waterproofing chemicals need to be mixed with cement. The ratio is 1 part chemical to 1.5 parts cement. For example, if you have 2 liters of chemical, you’ll need 3 kg of cement. Mix the two thoroughly until there are no lumps.
Step 6: Applying the First Coat
Use a paintbrush to apply the mixture evenly over the slab. The first coat should be applied in straight lines, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. You need to extend the waterproofing onto the walls as well, about 8 inches above the floor, to prevent water from seeping through the walls.
Step 7: Drying the First Coat
Let the first coat dry for 6 to 8 hours. Be careful during this time as the waterproofing is still flexible, and any dust or foot traffic could damage it. Once it’s dry, apply the second coat in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even coverage.
Step 8: Protection Layer
After the waterproofing is complete, you must apply a protective plaster layer. This thin layer will protect the waterproofing from damage during the tiling process. It’s crucial to protect the waterproofing, as it can crack if subjected to heavy pressure.
Step 9: Tiling Over the Waterproofing
Once the protective layer is dry, you can start tiling your bathroom. Avoid using gravel or stones on the waterproofing, as this could damage the layer. Instead, use khangar, a lightweight material that absorbs water effectively and doesn’t put pressure on the slab. It helps protect the waterproofing from moisture and keeps your bathroom dry for years.
Step 10: Final Thoughts on Cost
The cost of waterproofing a 5×6 ft bathroom is relatively low. You will need about 1 liter of waterproofing chemical, costing ₹350-₹400. The mason or contractor will charge around ₹2000 for the labor, and the cost of the protective plaster will be minimal since most of the material is readily available in your home if you’re already building your house.
In total, waterproofing your bathroom can cost around ₹3000-₹4000, depending on the size and materials you choose.
