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Tanking Wetrooms to UK Tiling Standards
A wetroom is an increasingly popular choice in modern bathrooms due to its minimalist aesthetic, ease of access, and practicality. However, designing and constructing a wetroom requires attention to detail, particularly when it comes to waterproofing and tanking. Tanking refers to the process of applying a waterproof membrane to walls and floors to protect the structure from water damage, ensuring a long-lasting and functional space. When tanking a wetroom to UK tiling standards, it’s important to follow specific guidelines and adhere to local building regulations to prevent issues like water ingress, mould growth, and damage to the building structure.
This guide explores tanking wetrooms according to UK tiling standards, including the best materials, installation techniques, and compliance with building regulations.
What is Tanking and Why is it Important?
Tanking is the process of waterproofing the surfaces in a wetroom to prevent water from penetrating the underlying structure, such as the walls and floors. Wetrooms, unlike traditional bathrooms with separate shower cubicles, are designed with open-plan, floor-level showers that are exposed to water over long periods. Without proper tanking, water can seep into structural elements, causing rot, mould, and long-term damage to the building fabric.
Tanking creates a waterproof barrier on surfaces, ensuring that water remains contained within the wetroom. In the UK, tanking wetrooms is a crucial aspect of ensuring they meet building standards, such as those outlined in Building Regulations 2010 and Approved Document M, which govern the construction of wetrooms and showers.
UK Tiling Standards for Wetrooms
To comply with UK tiling standards, tanking a wetroom requires the use of specific materials and techniques. The standards ensure that the wetroom is safe, functional, and free from water damage. Here are some of the key requirements when tanking wetrooms:
1. Waterproof Membranes
The key component of any tanking system is the waterproof membrane. There are various types of membranes available, each with its own benefits, but they must all adhere to UK tiling standards and regulations.
- Liquid Membranes: Liquid-applied waterproofing membranes are a popular choice for wetrooms. These membranes are applied as a liquid that cures to form a seamless, flexible waterproof layer. They are ideal for covering complex areas, such as corners and joints, ensuring comprehensive waterproofing. These products typically need to be applied in multiple coats to ensure thorough coverage.
- Sheet Membranes: Sheet membranes are pre-formed waterproof sheets that are adhered to the walls and floor using an appropriate adhesive. They offer a quick and reliable way to waterproof wetroom areas, but the seams where sheets meet must be sealed carefully to avoid leaks.
- Foam Boards: Rigid foam boards are another option for wetroom waterproofing. These boards are lightweight, provide thermal insulation, and are resistant to water penetration. They are typically used as part of a comprehensive tanking system, either in combination with liquid or sheet membranes.
2. Application of Tanking Membranes
For wetroom tanking to meet UK tiling standards, it’s crucial that the waterproof membrane is applied correctly. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Surface Preparation: Before applying the waterproof membrane, the surfaces of the walls and floors must be clean, dry, and free of any dust, debris, or old adhesives. Any uneven or damaged surfaces should be repaired to create a smooth, stable foundation for the tanking layer.
- Priming: In many cases, a primer is applied to the surface to enhance the adhesion of the membrane. This is particularly important when applying liquid membranes, which require good adhesion to the substrate.
- Membrane Application: Liquid membranes are applied with a brush or roller, ensuring an even layer is spread across all areas, including joints, corners, and edges. For sheet membranes, the sheets are glued down, ensuring no gaps or overlaps that could compromise waterproofing.
- Sealing Joints and Corners: Pay close attention to joints, corners, and transitions between the floor and wall. These areas are the most vulnerable to water penetration and must be sealed with special attention. Some tanking systems provide reinforcing tapes for the joints to prevent leaks.
- Curing and Testing: The waterproof membrane must be allowed to cure fully before tiling begins. This ensures that the membrane is completely set and provides a reliable water-resistant layer. Once cured, a water test can be conducted to ensure the wetroom is watertight.
3. Tiling the Wetroom
Once the tanking system is in place, tiling can begin. The tiles serve as both a decorative element and an additional layer of protection. Proper installation is critical to ensuring the wetroom is compliant with UK tiling standards.
- Tile Selection: The tiles used in a wetroom must be non-porous and suitable for high-moisture areas. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular choices because of their durability and water resistance. Natural stone tiles, such as marble or slate, can also be used but must be sealed regularly to prevent water absorption.
- Waterproof Adhesive: When tiling a wetroom, only waterproof adhesives should be used to bond the tiles to the tanked surface. These adhesives ensure that the tiles remain securely in place despite constant exposure to water.
- Grouting: Grout is used to fill the gaps between tiles. For wetrooms, waterproof grout should be used to prevent water from seeping through the joints. Epoxy grout is particularly suitable for wetrooms because it is highly resistant to water and mould growth.
- Tile Layout and Installation: Tiles should be installed starting from the centre of the floor and walls and worked outward. This ensures that the tiles are evenly distributed and that any cut tiles are placed along the edges, creating a more visually pleasing result. Proper spacing between tiles is essential for effective grouting and water runoff.
4. Drainage and Floor Slope
The wetroom floor must be properly sloped to allow water to drain efficiently toward the drain. The typical slope is a 1:40 gradient, which ensures that water doesn’t pool in any area. The tanking system must also cover the entire floor, including the area around the drain, to prevent leaks.
5. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential in a wetroom to reduce humidity and prevent mould and mildew buildup. Building regulations require that a wetroom must have sufficient ventilation, either through natural ventilation (windows) or mechanical ventilation systems. This helps keep the wetroom dry and maintains air quality.
Compliance with UK Building Regulations
In the UK, wetrooms must comply with building regulations to ensure safety, water resistance, and accessibility. The Building Regulations 2010 and Approved Document M outline the minimum standards for construction. Wetrooms should be constructed with adequate drainage, waterproofing, and ventilation, and they must be accessible for all users, including those with disabilities.
Tanking a wetroom to UK tiling standards ensures that the room meets these regulations, protecting the property from water damage and ensuring that the space remains safe, hygienic, and functional.
Wetroom Tanking Systems to UK Tiling Standards on Tilers Forums
Tanking a wetroom is an essential process that guarantees the longevity and safety of the space, particularly in preventing water damage to the building structure. By following UK tiling standards, including selecting the correct waterproof membranes, adhesives, and tiles, homeowners and contractors can create a durable, watertight wetroom. Compliance with building regulations ensures that the wetroom is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also safe, accessible, and long-lasting. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional tiler, adhering to these standards is crucial for a successful wetroom installation.
Find the latest tanking and wetroom discussion and installation advice threads on Tilers Forums
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Use the threads above to research Tanking and Wetroom systems.
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