Why Waterproofing Takes Time (And Why It’s Essential)

Waterproofing is a non-negotiable step in any bathroom renovation. It protects your home from water damage, leaks, and mould, ensuring your new bathroom lasts for years to come. While it may seem like a simple process, proper waterproofing takes time—and for good reason.

Here’s why waterproofing is essential and why it’s worth the wait.

1. Waterproofing Protects Your Home from Costly Damage

Without proper waterproofing, moisture can seep into walls and floors, leading to:
🚧 Mould and mildew growth – A health hazard that thrives in damp environments
🚧 Structural damage – Rotting timber, weakened flooring, and cracked walls
🚧 Peeling paint & tile failure – Poor waterproofing can cause bubbling walls and loose tiles
🚧 Expensive repairs – Water damage repairs can cost thousands if not addressed early

💡 Tip: A professionally waterproofed bathroom can save you from major headaches and costly fixes down the track.

2. Why Waterproofing Takes Time

Waterproofing isn’t just a quick coat of sealant—it involves multiple steps, each with its own drying time to ensure long-term protection.

The Waterproofing Process:

✔ Step 1: Surface Preparation – Walls and floors must be clean, dry, and free from dust or debris.
✔ Step 2: Primer Application – A primer is applied to create a strong bond for the waterproofing membrane.
✔ Step 3: First Coat of Waterproofing – A liquid membrane is applied, ensuring full coverage over floors, walls, and shower recesses.
✔ Step 4: Drying Time – The first coat must dry completely before applying the second.
✔ Step 5: Second Coat Application – A second waterproofing layer is applied for added durability.
✔ Step 6: Final Drying & Curing – The waterproofing must fully cure before tiling can begin.

⏳ Total Time Required: 2–3 days (including drying and curing)

🚧 What happens if you rush waterproofing?

• Applying tiles before waterproofing is fully dry can cause membrane failure.
• Moisture trapped beneath tiles can lead to mould and peeling grout.
• Inadequate drying time reduces the effectiveness of the seal, increasing the risk of future leaks.

💡 Tip: Allowing the waterproofing to fully cure is crucial to ensuring your bathroom remains leak-proof for years to come.

3. Waterproofing Must Meet Australian Standards

In Australia, waterproofing is strictly regulated under the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS 3740 waterproofing standards. A licensed professional must ensure that:
✔ Showers are fully waterproofed from floor to 2000mm
✔ Floors and walls have a waterproof membrane extending to the correct height
✔ Waterproofing is tested and approved before tiling begins

🚧 DIY waterproofing is not recommended—it’s a specialised trade that requires expertise and compliance with strict building codes.

💡 Tip: At Custom Bathroom Creations, we ensure all waterproofing meets the highest industry standards, giving you peace of mind.

4. Why You Should Never Skip Waterproofing

Skipping or rushing waterproofing might seem like a way to save time, but the risks far outweigh any short-term benefits.

🔴 Shortcuts lead to leaks – Tiny cracks or missed areas can cause big problems later.
🔴 Mould spreads fast – Once moisture gets in, it’s hard to stop.
🔴 Repairs are expensive – Fixing water damage often requires redoing the entire bathroom.

💡 Tip: Investing in high-quality waterproofing now saves you from major repair costs in the future.

Final Thoughts: Quality Waterproofing is Worth the Wait

Waterproofing may take a few days, but it’s one of the most important steps in your bathroom renovation. Taking the time to do it properly ensures your bathroom is:
✅ Fully protected from leaks and moisture damage
✅ Compliant with Australian building standards
✅ Built to last for years without costly repairs

At Custom Bathroom Creations, we never cut corners on waterproofing—we do it right the first time for long-lasting durability and peace of mind.

Have questions about the waterproofing process? Contact us today—we’re happy to help!