How much does waterproofing cost?

How much to waterproof a bathroom? The average bathroom waterproofing cost ranges from $500 to $1,000, but for larger projects, it can reach up to $4,000. The total waterproofing cost depends on factors such as bathroom size, materials, and the scope of work.

Proper waterproofing in a bathroom is essential to prevent structural damage caused by moisture, leaks, and condensation. Without it, your home could be at risk of water damage, mould growth, and deteriorating tiles. Ensuring your bathroom is correctly waterproofed not only protects your home but also maintains the integrity and longevity of your tiles and fixtures.

In This Guide to Bathroom Waterproofing

We’ll cover everything you need to know about bathroom waterproofing, including:

• Bathroom waterproofing costs and pricing factors
• What is waterproofing and why it’s essential
• DIY steps to waterproofing your shower or wet area
• Australian standards for waterproofing bathrooms
• How to hire a tiler and waterproofer for your home project—and more!

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How much does bathroom waterproofing cost?

So, how much does bathroom waterproofing cost? On average, waterproofing a bathroom costs around $40 per square metre. For a medium-sized bathroom, professional waterproofing typically ranges between $800 and $1,000, covering labour, materials, and waterproofing agents.

The overall waterproofing cost depends on several factors, including bathroom size, layout, and project complexity. Larger or more intricate jobs can cost as much as $4,000.

Waterproofing shower cost

The cost to waterproof a shower varies based on shower size and labour hours. Since shower waterproofing is usually less extensive than full bathroom waterproofing, it tends to be more affordable. Prices typically range from $600 to $3,000, depending on the project scope.

For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to request a quote from a local waterproofing specialist. Many tilers are also qualified waterproofers, so when discussing the cost to waterproof a bathroom shower, ask whether they can provide both services. They can give you a quote for the cost to waterproof and retile your shower at the same time.

Once the waterproofing is completed, your bathroom will be ready for tiling, towel rail installation, and final touches, bringing your renovation one step closer to completion.

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Labour rates for bathroom waterproofing

Hiring bathroom waterproofers typically costs between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on the specialist’s expertise. The rates for different professionals involved in bathroom waterproofing can vary:

• Bathroom renovation specialists charge around $65 per hour.
• Tilers charge between $50 and $150 per hour.
• Waterproofing specialists generally charge about $35 per hour.

It’s important to hire a professional with the appropriate waterproofing license and proven experience in the industry. Depending on the scope of the project, you may choose to hire a tiler, builder, bathroom renovator, or a waterproofing expert to ensure the job is done correctly and in compliance with standards.

What factors affect waterproofing cost per m² in Australia?

Several factors influence the total bathroom waterproofing cost per m² in Australia, including:

• Size of your bathroom – Larger bathrooms require more materials and take longer to complete, increasing both material and labour costs.
• Materials – The type and quality of the waterproofing membrane used will affect the overall cost. It’s important to invest in high-quality products to ensure long-lasting results.
• Location – Labour rates vary across different states and regions, which can impact pricing.
• Bathroom location in the home – Bathrooms on upper floors require total floor waterproofing, which can add to the overall cost.
• Emergency service – If you need urgent waterproofing, expect to pay higher hourly rates.
• Repairs – Any existing damage to shower walls, floors, or substructures must be fixed before waterproofing can begin, increasing the total cost.

Understanding these factors can help you budget effectively for your bathroom waterproofing project.

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What is bathroom waterproofing?

Bathroom waterproofing is a crucial step in any bathroom renovation, protecting your home from moisture damage, leaks, and structural issues. When installed correctly, quality waterproofing materials prevent water from seeping into walls and floors, ensuring long-term durability.

In wet areas where plumbing fixtures are present, waterproofing is typically required around walls, floors, and shower areas. A waterproofing membrane acts as a protective barrier to stop leaks and prevent costly repairs.

Common Waterproofing Materials:

• Primer – Prepares surfaces for waterproofing application.
• Waterproofing membrane – A protective layer that prevents water penetration.
• Waterproofing agent – Enhances the effectiveness of waterproofing solutions.
• Bathroom sealing silicone – Seals joints and edges to prevent leaks.

Faulty waterproofing is one of the most common building defects in Australia, causing as much damage as termites. It often results from poor-quality membranes, inadequate surface preparation, or incorrect application. To ensure your bathroom is fully protected, hiring professional waterproofing specialists is highly recommended.

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Step-by-step shower waterproofing process

Shower waterproofing for walls and floors should be done using high-quality materials to ensure long-term durability. While it’s recommended to hire a professional, experienced DIYers who follow Australian Standards may be able to complete the job themselves. However, always check local regulations before proceeding.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Paint roller and tray
• Paint scraper
• Masking tape
• Safety equipment (e.g., goggles to protect your eyes)
• Spirit level
• Primer
• Waterproofing agent and membrane
• Caulking gun
• Hammer and knife
• Cleaning equipment

Six Basic Steps for Waterproofing a Wet Area:

1. Clean the shower walls and floor – Remove any dust, grit, or tile adhesive, especially if tiles were removed as part of a renovation.
2. Apply primer – Use a roller to coat the walls and floor, covering any area where tiles will be installed.
3. Seal the gaps – Once the primer is dry, apply silicone sealant to all joints and edges. Remove any excess with a paint scraper and allow it to dry overnight.
4. Mark waterproofing areas – Use masking tape to define the waterproofing height on the walls. For shower areas, the primer and waterproofing should extend at least 1.8 metres high.
5. Apply waterproofing agent and membrane – Roll on the waterproofing agent up to the height of the tape and across the entire shower floor. Add the waterproofing membrane to all joints, ensuring there are no gaps before sealing with another coat of waterproofing agent.
6. Apply a second waterproofing coat – After 24 hours, apply a second coat of the waterproofing agent for added durability. Once everything is fully dry, the shower area is ready for tiling.

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Waterproofing bathroom walls before tiling

When undertaking a bathroom renovation, waterproofing bathroom walls and floors before adding tiles is essential to ensuring long-term protection against moisture and water damage. Proper waterproofing creates a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping into walls and floors, which is critical in areas like showers and bathtubs that experience high moisture levels.

If shower walls aren’t waterproofed properly, you’ll likely notice signs of water damage such as swelling, cracking tiles, and mould growth. These are all indications that the waterproofing job was poorly done, and the damage will continue to worsen over time. Not only will this lead to unsightly and costly repairs, but it can also cause significant structural issues that require extensive work to resolve.

In the long run, investing in proper waterproofing at the start of a renovation project can save you considerable money and hassle. It’s always better to ensure a high-quality waterproofing job is done upfront than to deal with expensive fixes later on. Properly waterproofed walls will also provide a solid foundation for tiles, ensuring they stay secure and in place for years to come.

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Australian Standards for Bathroom Waterproofing

Bathroom waterproofing must meet national standards and comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) to ensure your bathroom remains protected from water damage and leaks.

To be compliant with the Australian standards, the following guidelines must be followed:

• The full shower floor must be waterproofed.
• The step down from the shower to the bathroom floor must be waterproofed to at least 100mm.
• If the floor is made of timber or the bathroom is on the second storey or higher, the floor must be entirely waterproofed.
• Shower walls must be waterproofed to at least 1800mm in height.
• Bathroom walls must be waterproofed to at least 150mm from the floor.

In Queensland and New South Wales, waterproofing must be carried out by a licensed waterproofer. In all other states, the work can be completed without a license as long as it meets the Australian standards.

Following these guidelines ensures the waterproofing is done correctly, protecting your home from water damage and ensuring the job is compliant with Australian regulations.

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How to get waterproofing quotes

If you’re still wondering how much bathroom waterproofing costs, obtaining multiple quotes is the best way to get an accurate estimate. Aim to compare at least three quotes to understand the typical pricing in your area. To get a good indication of waterproofing prices, be sure to provide the following details:

• The areas to be waterproofed (e.g., shower, floors, walls).
• The type of materials that will be used for waterproofing.
• An estimate of how long the job will take to complete.

If you’re located in New South Wales or Queensland, be sure to ask to see a copy of the tradesperson’s waterproofing license and qualifications. It’s highly recommended to hire someone with specific qualifications in waterproofing, regardless of your state, to ensure the job is done to the highest standards.

Also, request a list of references from bathroom renovators and ask whether they offer a warranty on the work completed. Yellow Pages can be a helpful resource for finding free quotes from local waterproofing experts in your area.

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*All costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this bathroom waterproofing cost guide was written and should only be used as an estimate.