Tanking a Bathroom

Is there need to tank the shower walls if a shower tray is being used? Having mixed opinions from different tilers coming to price the job. Thanks

Asked by Nathan on 24th Mar 2025
Expert Trade Answers
"Hi
Yes you do have to tank all walls inside the shower area before tilling. Shower proofing kit will cost you around £60. Its a straight forward process.
Thanks
Patryk
Build My Space Ltd"
Answered on 24th Mar 2025 - Member since Mar 2024 - report
"Hiya there - I would say ! If you are using a power or a pumped water yes I would do the tanking , If it’s a normal shower the tanking is not required Make sure the shower tray is well fixed and the correct support flexible groute and. A mould free groute ."
Answered on 24th Mar 2025 - Member since Dec 2018 - report
"It is always best practise to tank any shower, regardless if a shower tray is used or it is a wet room floor being installed, water will always find the least path of resistance and exploit it.

For the minimal extra cost prior to install to insure, water tightness think of the cost against ripping it all out and starting all over again all because of a failure to TANK."
Answered on 24th Mar 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"I would say without a doubt. For the effort and what it costs I would suggest it’s to be done.
There can be movement in the building over time and the seals can break on any shower and if the shower room is upstairs it’s an added layer of protection that won’t ruin the room below.
I hope that answer helps."
Answered on 24th Mar 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"Hello
As a rule we always tank them, but this is just our preference, to prevent any issues.

Hayley Haynes
Haynes Builders Norfolk Ltd"
Answered on 24th Mar 2025 - Member since Sep 2024 - report
"It's difficult to tell, but tanking is normally used when water is accessing the property from the outside to in. Normally sealing the walls with sbr or a pva solution before tiling will suffice, also always install an extractor fan, which reduces moisture"
Answered on 25th Mar 2025 - Member since May 2022 - report
"It all depends on longevity and the material used behind the tiles. If there is concrete backing boards then there is no need to tank if there is moisture boards then it still ideal to tank behind but not necessary. If there is plasterboard behind you do need to tank or other options."
Answered on 25th Mar 2025 - Member since Feb 2024 - report
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