Bathroom and wetroom environments are continuously exposed to moisture, condensation, and direct water contact. While tiles may appear to provide a watertight surface, they are not inherently waterproof — especially when grout lines, silicone seals, and substrate joins are taken into account. Over time, moisture can penetrate through microscopic gaps in tile installations, making its way into the substrate and causing long-term damage.
This unseen water infiltration can lead to serious consequences, such as black mould growth, weakened adhesion of tiles, wood rot in floorboards or plasterboard, and the eventual failure of the entire tiled surface. In extreme cases, structural elements like joists and subflooring can be compromised. For tradespeople and tilers, failing to properly waterproof a space can result in costly callbacks, insurance claims, and loss of reputation.
Waterproofing is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s a mandatory step. British Standard BS 5385-1:2018 now recommends the use of waterproofing membranes in all domestic and commercial wet areas, especially where plasterboard or gypsum-based materials are present.
Introducing AquaTank: The Complete Waterproofing System
At Quantum Group NI, we proudly supply our AquaTank kit — a high-performance, professional-grade waterproofing system designed for bathrooms, showers, wet rooms, utility spaces, and other moisture-prone environments. Whether you’re preparing walls behind tile installations or floors beneath level-access showers, AquaTank ensures complete waterproof protection from day one.
Unlike separate products, the AquaTank system is available as a complete kit, combining all essential components needed to create a sealed, vapour-proof, and tile-ready substrate. It’s suitable for use behind ceramic, porcelain, mosaic, and natural stone tiles, and it’s trusted by professionals for both new-builds and renovations.
What’s Included in the AquaTank Kit?
Each AquaTank Kit contains carefully engineered components that work together to ensure optimal waterproof performance. The system is intuitive to use, even for first-time installers, and comes with clear instructions.
- AquaTank Neo-Flex Membrane
This is the core of the AquaTank system — a flexible, latex-based liquid membrane that is applied to wall or floor surfaces prior to tiling. Once cured, it forms a completely impermeable layer that bridges cracks, seals substrates, and protects against water ingress. The Neo-Flex Membrane is designed for internal use and can be applied by brush or roller.
It is quick-drying (touch dry in 30–60 minutes) and ready for tiling in approximately 2 hours. The vibrant colour of the membrane acts as a visual guide during application, ensuring no area is left untreated. It also exhibits high resistance to chemicals, frost, and water vapour, and remains permanently elastic to accommodate structural movement without compromising the seal.
- AquaTank Pro-Tile Primer
Before applying the membrane, surfaces must be properly prepared to promote adhesion and prevent moisture migration. The Pro-Tile Primer serves this purpose by penetrating porous substrates and forming a secure bond. It is a professional-grade, water-resistant primer and bonding agent that also improves the flexibility and durability of renders, screeds, and patching mortars.
When used in combination with the membrane, it ensures complete substrate readiness — especially on absorbent materials such as cement board, plaster, or anhydrite screeds.
- AquaTank SA Tape+
Even the best membranes can fail if joints and corners aren’t adequately sealed. That’s why the AquaTank kit includes SA Tape+, a 75mm wide, self-adhesive sealing tape. This high-performance tape is manufactured with a butyl rubber core and fleece outer layer, providing excellent flexibility and adhesion across joints, floor-to-wall junctions, and around penetrations such as pipes or waste outlets.
The tape stretches and flexes with the movement of the building and substrate, reducing the risk of cracking or tearing. Its pre-applied adhesive backing makes installation fast and mess-free — simply peel, press into place, and you’re ready to cover with membrane.
- Waterproof Upstand Tape (Optional Add-On)
For vertical junctions and bath surrounds, Waterproof Upstand Tape can be added to enhance the AquaTank system. This butyl-based, fleece-faced tape provides outstanding elasticity and is ideal for sealing the transition between walls and vertical surfaces, such as where a shower tray or bath meets the tiled wall. Supplied in a 10m roll, it’s easy to cut and install with standard tools and offers strong adhesion for peace of mind.
- Tools & Accessories
The kit also includes a paintbrush, gloves, and application instructions, allowing you to complete the job using a single, all-in-one system. This reduces reliance on multiple suppliers and simplifies site logistics.
Applications: Where Should Waterproofing Be Used?
The AquaTank system is suitable for any internal area exposed to moisture. We recommend using it in:
Showers and Wet Rooms
Wall areas directly exposed to water, such as those behind shower heads and panels, are highly vulnerable to water penetration. Waterproofing these zones is essential, especially when tiling onto plasterboard or timber sheathing.
Floor Areas
In wet rooms or walk-in showers, floors are exposed to constant pooling and splashback. Without a membrane, water can easily seep through grout lines and damage the screed, underfloor heating, or subfloor.
Bath Surrounds
The junction between a bath and tiled wall is a common point of failure, especially if weight shifts when filled with water. AquaTank Tape and Upstand Tape help maintain a watertight seal over time.
Utility and Laundry Rooms
Washing machines and utility sinks often result in splashes or occasional leaks. Waterproofing helps prevent long-term moisture damage to floors and skirting boards in these zones.
Underfloor Heating Systems
Thermal expansion from heated screeds can cause substrate movement and micro-cracking. The flexible properties of the Neo-Flex Membrane help bridge these cracks and maintain surface protection.
Application Steps
Step 1: Prime the Surface
Begin by cleaning and drying all surfaces. Apply AquaTank Pro-Tile Primer generously to the entire area using a brush or roller. Allow it to dry fully — typically 1–2 hours depending on conditions.
Step 2: Seal Joints and Corners with SA Tape+
Install SA Tape+ in all internal corners, wall-floor transitions, and board junctions. Apply pressure evenly to ensure full contact with the surface. For pipe protrusions, use pre-cut patches or wrap the pipe with tape.
Step 3: Apply the First Coat of Neo-Flex Membrane
Once the primer and tape are secure, apply the first coat of Neo-Flex Membrane with a roller or brush. Cover the full area, including over the SA Tape+. Aim for an even, continuous layer.
Step 4: Apply a Second Coat
After 30–60 minutes, once the first coat is touch-dry, apply a second coat at a 90° angle to the first. This cross-layering maximises crack-bridging capacity and surface integrity.
Step 5: Allow to Cure and Begin Tiling
After 2 hours, the membrane is ready for tile adhesive. Use a flexible cement-based adhesive such as Ultratile Proflex SPES or SP Rapid, both available from Quantum Group NI.
Why Choose AquaTank from Quantum Group NI?
Quantum Group NI is a trusted wholesale supplier of waterproofing systems and tiling accessories. We work exclusively with retail partners, showrooms, and tile merchants across the UK and Ireland. By choosing AquaTank, you benefit from:
- Proven waterproofing system compliant with BS standards
- High-quality, chemical-resistant components
- Fast drying times – ready to tile in just 2 hours
- Easy installation with full technical support
- Packaged as an all-in-one solution with no guesswork
Want to Stock AquaTank?
If you’re a tile retailer, merchant, or contractor supplier, Quantum Group NI offers:
- Fast UK & Ireland delivery
- Dedicated account support
- Marketing and training assets
- Brochures, videos, and technical datasheets
- Complementary products, including trims, adhesives, levelling systems, and more
Email: [email protected]
Call: +44 (0)28 7131 2064