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The most common reason for callbacks on tile projects in wet areas is water damage. Whether a shower, a pool or a tile-clad multi-story building, you can prevent costly moisture issues by choosing a proven liquid waterproofing product and applying it properly. Liquid waterproofing membranes (LWMs) are a popular choice because they offer many installation and performance advantages. Liquid membranes provide a seamless and lasting water barrier that helps protect both the tile and underlying substrate. With the ability to improve tile installation efficiency, aesthetics and long-term performance, LWMs are a wise choice for both indoor and outdoor water-exposed tile projects.
What is a Liquid Waterproofing Membrane?
Liquid waterproof membranes are most commonly composed of acrylic, rubber, or polyurethane. Once applied to a specific thickness, these materials cure into a seamless, flexible membrane that can effectively block water and moisture occurring on the surface or above the substrate—referred to as positive-side waterproofing. Some LWMs also have crack isolation properties, which further protect the tile installation from cracks due to substrate movement.
Time-Saving Efficiencies of LWMs
Tile installers benefit from many time-saving advantages when using LWMs. Since these products are liquid, they can be easily brushed, troweled, rolled or sprayed on the substrate. This ease of application reduces installation time and helps minimize labor costs. Additionally, many LWMs also include crack isolation properties. TEC® HydraFlex TM Waterproofing Crack Isolation Membrane offers unmatched efficiencies. No other LWM can isolate in-plane cracks up to 1/4” or bridge control joints 1 (saw cut joints in concrete) to protect the tile. Low VOC, HydraFlex requires just one coat to protect against 1/8” in-plane cracks and two coats to achieve the 1/4” crack isolation. This product is the only product that can be applied over new concrete as little as three days old with maximum 90% relative humidity and readies the substrate for tile installation in just one to three hours. These reduced wait times allow installers to complete projects faster while maintaining quality and reliability.
Always follow manufacturer instructions carefully for proper LWM product application for tile installation and check that the product meets or exceeds ANSI A118.10 specifications for waterproof membranes and ANSI A118.12 specifications for crack isolation membranes.
Enhanced Aesthetics with LWMs
When applied correctly, LWMs create a smooth and seamless surface that enhances the finished tile installation by helping manage damage from water or cracks. Waterproofing methods such as sheets or boards may produce a surface with imperfections or seams, especially in areas with complexity such as fixtures, corners, columns or pipes. These inconsistencies can compromise the appearance and protection of the tile installation. In contrast, LWMs are easy to apply uniformly, adapting around obstacles and leaving no gaps for water infiltration. The cured LWM can be visually inspected for voids in coverage, reducing the risk of unsightly cracks, stains or even failures due to water damage.
Aesthetically TEC® HydraFlex TM Waterproofing Crack Isolation Membrane enables greater tile design flexibility by being the only product that allows installers to skip creating soft joints over saw-cut joints. Eliminating these sealer-filled joints maintains a cleaner, more uniform look, in addition to saving installation time.
High Performance of LWMs
LWMs are suitable for application to a wide variety of stable and prepared substrate materials. Before applying a LWM, always check manufacturer-approved substrates. Ensuring that the substrate is clean, dry and sound is critical for proper bonding and optimal membrane performance. Once the LWM is dry, flood testing is an essential step to verify the watertight integrity of a shower or pool installation. Flood testing can be done in as few as 2 hours after installation, depending on the LWM manufacturer. This allows installers to address potential performance issues early in the process.
An important benefit of the waterproofing membrane is that it remains flexible once cured. This flexibility allows it to stay watertight and structurally sound when exposed to movement from temperature changes or structural shifts. When selecting a LWM, it is important to review the manufacturer’s warranty. Warranty terms can vary from as little as one year to ten years, so choosing a LWM with long-term performance guarantees can provide peace of mind.
Protect The Tile and the Structure
Waterproofing with a liquid membrane is one of the most efficient and effective ways to
ensure a watertight seal in tiled areas exposed to water. By following the correct
preparation and application steps, installers can maximize the benefits of high-
performance LWMs, including crack isolation. LWMs offer installation time efficiencies,
enhanced tile aesthetics and long-term performance. Proper waterproofing not only
prevents water damage but also protects the surface’s longevity and the integrity of the
building’s structure.
1 Full surface area coverage of the subfloor is required. Soft joints other than for saw cuts still required by TCNA EJ171.
