Tile Shower Waterproofing: What Homeowners Should Know About Schluter and Other Systems
- Ben
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
A tile shower can be the crown jewel of your bathroom—but without proper waterproofing, it can quickly become a costly disaster. Unlike acrylic or fiberglass surrounds, tile and grout are not naturally waterproof. That’s why what’s behind the walls is just as important as what’s on the surface.
In this post, we’ll explain the role of waterproofing in a tile shower, compare popular systems like Schluter® and others, and help you understand what makes a long-lasting, leak-free shower.
Why Waterproofing Matters in a Tile Shower
Tile is water-resistant, not waterproof. Moisture can seep through grout lines, cracks, and corners—especially over time. Without a proper waterproofing system underneath, water can:
Cause mold and mildew growth behind walls
Rot wall framing and subfloors
Lead to tile delamination or failure
Result in expensive repairs and health risks
A reliable waterproofing system prevents this by creating a continuous moisture barrier between your tile and the structure of your home.
Popular Shower Waterproofing Systems
🟧 Schluter®-KERDI System
Type: Sheet membrane system
Key Features: Waterproof and vapor-retardant membrane that’s installed over wallboard and floors, bonded with thin-set mortar.
Benefits:
Lightweight and easy to work with
Seamless waterproofing with KERDI-BAND at seams and corners
Integrated with Schluter shower trays and drains
Best For: Custom walk-in showers, curbless designs, and tiled shower floors.
🟨 Wedi® Building Panels
Type: Foam-core panels with waterproof coating
Key Features: Combines structure and waterproofing in one panel, including pre-sloped shower pans.
Benefits:
Strong, lightweight, and easy to cut
Naturally waterproof—no extra membranes needed
Speeds up installation time
Best For: Contractors seeking speed and reliability with minimal prep.
🟩 LATICRETE HYDRO BAN®
Type: Liquid-applied membrane
Key Features: Applied with a roller, brush, or sprayer to create a flexible waterproof layer.
Benefits:
Excellent for odd shapes and tight corners
Bonds directly to cement backer board
Crack-bridging and fast drying
Best For: Remodels where existing surfaces need to be sealed, or for complex layouts.
🟦 RedGard® by Custom Building Products
Type: Liquid-applied membrane
Key Features: Popular among DIYers and pros alike for surface-applied waterproofing.
Benefits:
Turns bright red when applied so it’s easy to see coverage
Budget-friendly
Mold- and mildew-resistant
Best For: Budget-conscious projects and small-scale shower installs.
How a Waterproofing System Is Installed (Simplified)
Substrate prep: Cement board or compatible surface is installed on shower walls and floors.
Membrane application:
Sheet systems (like KERDI) are embedded in mortar.
Liquid systems (like Hydro Ban or RedGard) are rolled on in multiple coats.
Seams and corners sealed with tapes or overlapping membrane.
Drain integration: Special waterproof drains are installed to tie into the system.
Tile is installed directly over the membrane with thin-set mortar.
What Happens Without Waterproofing?
Skipping waterproofing—or using the wrong products—can lead to:
Soft, soggy drywall or wood behind tile
Black mold inside the wall cavity
Loose tiles and failing grout
Water damage to ceilings or rooms below
Unfortunately, many homeowners discover this after the damage is done, especially in older showers or poor DIY installations.
Tile Showers: Built to Last, When Built Right
A beautifully tiled shower isn’t just about the tile—it’s about the entire system. Waterproofing is an essential layer that protects your investment and your home’s structure for decades.
Ready to Remodel Your Shower the Right Way?
At Ebersole Remodeling, we specialize in code-compliant, long-lasting tile showers using industry-leading waterproofing systems like Schluter®, Wedi®, and LATICRETE®. Whether you're looking for a luxury spa-like shower or a simple upgrade, we’ll ensure it’s done right—inside and out.
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