Bathroom Waterproofing in Dubai: How It Should Be Done

Signs your bathroom waterproofing has failed

• Water stains or damp patches on the ceiling below, or complaints from the neighbour downstairs
• Loose, hollow-sounding or cracked floor tiles
• Dark grout, mould or a musty smell that returns after cleaning
• Peeling paint or swelling at the bottom of walls next to the bathroom
• Damaged door frames or vanity bases

How proper waterproofing is done

1. Strip back to the slab and remove old tiles, screed and membrane where needed.
2. Prepare the surface: repair cracks, form a proper fall to the drain.
3. Seal the details: corners, pipe penetrations and drains get reinforcing tape or collars, which is where most leaks start.
4. Apply the membrane in the specified coats across the floor, turned up the walls, and to full height in the shower area.
5. Flood test: the floor is filled with water and left, usually for at least 24 hours, and checked for leaks before any tiling.
6. Protect and tile without damaging the membrane.

Types of membrane

Common systems include cementitious membranes, liquid-applied polyurethane or acrylic membranes and sheet membranes. The right one depends on the substrate and the area; what matters most is that it is installed to the manufacturer’s specification with every detail sealed.

Showers, balconies and kitchens

Walk-in showers without a tray need extra care with the fall and the drain. Balconies and roofs face sun and heat, and need systems designed for exposure. Kitchens with floor drains or under-sink areas benefit from waterproofing too.

Our standard

Every bathroom we renovate gets a new membrane, sealed details and a flood test before tiling, backed by a 5-year waterproofing warranty in writing. Bathroom renovations in our published ranges run from AED 15,000 to 60,000+ and typically take 2 to 3 weeks. See our bathroom renovation cost guide.

Frequently Asked Questions