Do I need to tank shower walls before tiling?

Question

We're fitting a new shower enclosure and our tiler has mentioned tanking the walls first. Is this always necessary?

Mark · Answer

It's advisable to do so especially if on upper floors.

Chris · Answer

Yes, this is always necessary and is industry standard.

Darren · Answer

Yes, as grout is not waterproof. Moisture seeps through and eventually the wall absorbs the moisture, causing mould.

If it’s plasterboard I would replace it with Marmox mutiboard (no tanking required). If it’s a solid masonry wall, tank with a kit from Mapei.

Mahmoud · Answer

Yes, it is better to waterproof the shower walls before tiling, especially in wet areas like bathrooms. It helps protect the walls from moisture and prevents future damage.

Michael · Answer

It is a British Standard regulatory requirement that bathroom areas where a shower is installed should be tanked.

BS 5385-1 (Wall and Floor Tiling): Recommends that substrates in wet areas (showers, wet rooms) are protected with a tanking membrane system before tiling.

Steve · Answer

Yes you should tank the shower enclosure before tileing so the wall is water proofed

Mohammed · Answer

Hi Julie
Yes you need to tank shower before tiles please

Peter · Answer

Not always needed, mainly used in complete wet rooms

Ben · Answer

Hi Julie it is recommended that you tank the walls especially in bath or shower areas to waterproof them if any seal gets damaged or grout cracks over time that the walls are waterproof behind tiles for added protection

Scott Thomas · Answer

Hello this depends on whether its a full shower enclosure.? As in sealed unit. 
Or its a shower with a tiled area & doors etc.
Always use Q board to waterproof walls before tiling.

Do I need to tank shower walls before tiling?

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