When it comes to tiling in wet areas such as bathrooms, showers, and wet rooms, waterproofing is the single most crucial step. Without the proper waterproofing system, moisture can seep through tiles, leading to costly damage such as mould growth, structural decay, and tile failure.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about waterproofing before tiling, with a special focus on Aquatank, our industry-leading waterproofing system. We’ll also highlight other essential products such as tile backer boards, waterproof movement matting, and reinforcement tapes, ensuring you have a complete system to prevent leaks.
Why Waterproofing is Critical Before Tiling
- Prevents Water Damage
Tiles alone are not waterproof—water can penetrate through grout lines and cracks, damaging underlying structures. Proper waterproofing creates a barrier that stops leaks before they become an issue.
- Ensures Longevity of Your Tiling Work
By sealing substrates effectively, waterproofing prevents tile delamination, adhesive failure, and swelling of subfloors.
- Complies with Building Regulations
Waterproofing is mandatory in many building codes. Failing to apply an approved system can lead to non-compliance and potential liabilities.
Start with Cement Board – The Foundation of Waterproofing
Before applying any waterproofing system, the substrate must be stable, moisture-resistant, and strong enough to support tiles. This is where tile backer boards come in.
Benefits of Using Tile Backer Boards
✔ Waterproof & Mould-Resistant – Unlike plasterboard or plywood, backer boards do not degrade when exposed to moisture.
✔ Stable & Strong – Cement-based backer boards provide a firm, durable surface for tiling, preventing flexing and cracks.
✔ Fire-Resistant & Thermally Stable – Ideal for wet rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, ensuring long-term performance.
Installing Tile Backer Boards Correctly
- Measure and cut the boards to fit your space. Use a carbide-tipped scoring knife or circular saw.
- Fix boards securely to stud walls or floors using backer board screws.
- Tape all joints using alkali-resistant fibreglass tape.
- Apply thin-set mortar over seams and screw holes to create a seamless surface.
- Allow to dry completely before applying waterproofing membrane.
Recommended Products:
- Baseboard Tile Backer Board – Perfect for walls and floors in wet areas.
- Aquaboard Eco – Lightweight, moisture-resistant alternative for sustainable projects.
Step-by-Step Guide to Waterproofing with Aquatank
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Before applying waterproofing, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and dust-free. Any cracks should be filled, and loose debris removed.
Step 2: Apply Aquatank Pro-Tile Primer
This professional-grade primer improves adhesion and ensures the waterproof membrane bonds effectively to the surface.
Step 3: Seal Joints and Corners with Aquatank SA Tape+
Use Aquatank SA Tape+, a self-adhesive waterproofing tape, to reinforce joints, corners, and transitions between walls and floors.
Step 4: Apply the Aquatank Neo-Flex Membrane
This flexible liquid membrane creates a seamless waterproof barrier. Apply it across the entire surface, ensuring full coverage. Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second layer.
Step 5: Allow to Cure and Begin Tiling
Aquatank dries quickly—ready for tiling in just 2 hours! Once fully cured, you can proceed with adhesive and tile installation.
For a step-by-step installation video, click HERE.
Other Essential Waterproofing Products
- Waterproof Movement Matting – Structamat WP & Structamat Pro
For tiling on problematic surfaces such as timber or heated floors, use Structamat WP or Structamat Pro Movement Matting. These waterproofing and decoupling membranes: ✔ Prevent tile cracking due to movement or stress
✔ Add an extra waterproof layer to wet rooms and showers
✔ Work over timber, concrete, and heated floors
✔ Have minimal height buildup – ideal for renovations
2. Waterproofing Tapes and Accessories
To ensure full waterproof integrity, we also recommend:
- Structamat Corners – Pre-formed corner pieces for waterproofing junctions
- AquaTank Upstand Tape – Reinforces joints in wet areas
- AquaTank Kit Stand – Perfect for retailers displaying waterproofing products
Ensuring a Leak-Free Wet Room – Additional Considerations
- Sealing Critical Points
Even with high-quality waterproofing materials, specific areas remain vulnerable. Shower trays, bath edges, and around pipe penetrations should be sealed with flexible waterproofing sealant or tapes to prevent leaks over time.
- Waterproofing Floors Before Tiling
For bathrooms and wet rooms, it’s recommended to extend the waterproofing up the walls by at least 150mm from the floor. This prevents moisture ingress where floors and walls meet.
Why Choose Aquatank and Quantum’s Waterproofing Solutions?
- Complete waterproofing system – Everything needed for full substrate protection in one kit
- Fast drying – Ready for tiling in just 2 hours
- Flexible and crack-resistant – Protects against movement-induced cracks
- Tested to BS / EN Standards – Ensures compliance with industry regulations
By using Aquatank, Baseboard, and Structamat waterproofing solutions, you’re investing in reliable, long-lasting waterproof protection for all wet-area tiling projects.
Where to Buy Waterproofing Products?
Quantum is a trade-only supplier providing wholesale waterproofing and tiling solutions to retail stores throughout the UK & Ireland.
For more information on stocking our Aquatank range, tile backer boards, or waterproofing matting, message our team today or call:
📞 UK: +44 (0)1738 231 800
📞 Ireland: +44 (0)28 7131 2064