How Much Does Bathroom Waterproofing Cost?

Why Bathroom Waterproofing is Non-Negotiable?

Bathroom waterproofing isn't just an optional add-on; it's a legal requirement in Australia. Mandated by the Building Code Australia (BCA) and Australian Standard AS3740, the regulations dictate specific waterproofing measures to safeguard your home. Key requirements include:

• Thorough waterproofing of shower enclosure floors by expert shower installers.


• Waterproofing shower enclosure walls up to 1800mm.


• Waterproofing bathroom walls up to a height of 150mm.


• Comprehensive waterproofing for bathroom floors made of timber or located on the 2nd floor or higher.


• Waterproofing the area over the shower enclosure steps down to the floor up to a height of 100mm.

Why Bathroom Waterproofing Is Important

Bathroom waterproofing is crucial for several reasons, primarily centred around preventing water damage and ensuring the longevity of your home. Here are some key reasons why bathroom waterproofing is important:

• Preventing Water Damage: Bathrooms are constantly exposed to water, whether it's from showers, baths, sinks, or toilets. Without proper waterproofing, water can seep into the walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to structural damage over time. Water damage can weaken the structure of your home, promote mould growth, and cause costly bathroom repairs.


• Preserving Structural Integrity: Water damage can compromise the structural integrity of a building. It can weaken the foundation, rot wooden structures, and damage the overall stability of your home. Waterproofing helps protect against these issues, preserving the strength and durability of your property.


• Complying with Building Codes: In Australia, building codes require proper waterproofing in wet areas like bathrooms to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. Failing to comply with these codes can result in legal issues and difficulties in selling or insuring your property.


• Health and Safety: Water damage and mould growth can contribute to poor indoor air quality, which can have adverse effects on your health. Waterproofing helps create a healthier living environment by preventing the conditions that foster mould and mildew.

Whether you're building a new bathroom or renovating an existing one, investing in proper waterproofing measures is a wise decision. Let us now understand the process and prices.

Understanding the Bathroom Waterproofing Process

Bathroom waterproofing is a pre-emptive measure taken before laying tiles. Here's a glimpse of the process:

• Preparation: Cleaning and priming of the area. Sealing joints, floor penetrations, and wall-floor junctions with silicone.


• First Coat: Application of the first waterproofing membrane coat.


• Drying and Inspection: Drying overnight and inspection for completeness.


• Second Coat: Application of the second waterproofing membrane coat.


• Final Drying: Testing and leaving the area to dry for an additional 24 hours.

Waiting for complete drying is crucial before proceeding with subsequent work. Any damage to the waterproofing membrane can jeopardize the structural integrity of your home if a leak occurs.

What are the Bathroom Waterproofing Prices?

The crucial query at hand is how much bathroom waterproofing costs. Average-sized bathrooms can be waterproofed for as little as $40 per square metre, but most often run between $500 and $750. The number of bathrooms, the degree of waterproofing, and the size of the bathrooms are the main factors that affect the price.

Costs may be on the higher side for larger bathrooms, wet areas, or bathrooms on two stories. The cost for complex bathroom waterproofing may range between $3000-$4000.

The cost of bathroom waterproofing services can be influenced by various factors.

• The size and complexity of the bathroom, the materials used, and the specific waterproofing methods applied all contribute to the overall price. Additionally, the condition of the existing structures, such as the presence of pre-existing water damage or the need for repairs, can impact costs.


• The expertise and reputation of the contractor or service provider also play a role, as experienced professionals with a solid track record may charge higher fees.


• Regional variations in labour and material costs, as well as compliance with local building codes and regulations, further contribute to price disparities.

The Relevance of Licencing in Waterproofing Bathrooms

Bathroom waterproofing in Australia needs to be done by a licenced waterproofer. The licence guarantees the person's professional competency and is often obtained by completing a Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing. Related tradespeople, such as tilers, occasionally possess waterproofing licences as well.

When finishing a job, a certified waterproofer should provide a compliance certificate in states and territories where licencing is not required. Make sure the waterproofer you select has a waterproofing certificate and a warranty.

Hiring the Right Bathroom Waterproofer: What Questions To Ask Potential Waterproofers

When hiring a waterproofer, asking the right questions is essential. Here are key inquiries to make:

Confirm if they hold a current water proofer’s license.

Verify if they are insured to work in your home.

Inquire about the expected duration of your project.

Request a detailed, written quote for transparency.

Ask for references to gauge their work quality.

Understand the warranty of the waterproofing product they use.

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Finally: Look for Waterproofing Quotes for a Bathroom

Get estimates from nearby bathroom waterproofers so that you may start your bathroom renovation project with confidence. This not only gives you an idea of what the going prices are in the market, but it also enables you to make an informed choice based on reputation and pricing. Recall that spending money on appropriate waterproofing is an investment in your home's lifetime and structural integrity.