
In fact, the term moisture barrier isn’t used in the TCNA handbook. No Waterproofing: Will this cause shower leaks? Vapor Barrier vs Moisture BarrierĪs far as I know, there is no official distinction between these two membranes in the world of tile. If you have horizontal surfaces, more extreme conditions, or simply want a heavier-duty system then you’ll want a complete waterproofing membrane for your bathtub or shower.įor more information on waterproofing the critical areas in a shower see my post: It’s more of a minimal waterproofing system and would be used in areas like vertical shower walls and areas that don’t require more heavy-duty shower waterproofing systems.Ī waterproofing membrane, however, is a more watertight option. Oftentimes, they are installed behind cement backer board and mortar “mud” walls. Something that repels water but isn’t completely watertight. What are moisture barriers? Stapling sheets of plastic or tar paper to studs is an example. Moisture barrier or Waterproofing membrane? So you can see that, yes there are options for membranes. Is Hardibacker and Durock cement board waterproof? Now I can’t copy their material because of copyright restrictions but here’s my own drawing based on their information: Membranes are required and it book gives two different options for moisture membranes. There are certain sections that cover wet areas like showers.
#WATERPROOF STICK ON TILES FOR SHOWER INSTALL#
It covers different ways to install tile in different applications. It’s called the Tile Council of North America Handbook ( TCNA). There’s a handbook, especially for tile installers. Good! This post will cover 4 different shower waterproofing systems.īut first… Is Shower Waterproofing required? Most local building codes require some sort of moisture barrier and oftentimes this is overlooked.Īt any rate, you’re researching what kind of waterproofing your shower needs. Lastly, a lack of enforcement by local inspectors. Maybe sometimes they reason it out themselves and decide waterproofing a shower isn’t necessary.Ī common line of thinking is: “I’ve been doing it this way for “X” amount of years and never had a problem.”

Tile installers lacking proper training and education would be another cause as t hey are simply doing as they’ve been taught. Further, home builders, remodelers, and homeowners focus too intently on the price and go with whoever is the cheapest rather than paying for a properly built shower.
