One of the common mistakes by homeowners is to think that the shower is waterproof. In most cases, the walls in the shower are not waterproof. This allows the water often seeps through the corners of the wall. More than just water, moisture, and water that finds its way through the corners of the wall could cause a lot of damage. This includes mold and cracks. In the worst case, it might destroy the wall. To take care of this, you should install the best waterproofing membrane for shower. However, purchasing the membrane that will get your job done can be difficult. To reduce the stress of sorting through numerous products, we have reviewed some of the best waterproofing membranes to make your shower waterproof.
See also:
Contents
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Waterproofing Membrane
The Type
There are different types of waterproofing membranes. This includes fabric and liquid Ones. We will focus on these two types because they are the most popular types of the bunch. Fabric membranes are excellent products to waterproof your shower. They are usually applied on a coat thinset, and the set is transferred on the fabric. They are easy to install and are pliable. The liquid types, on the other hand, are versatile and have a wide range of applications. This includes wet places as well as the dry ones.
Ease of Application
Waterproofing membranes have varying ease of application. While some are relatively easy to apply, others are not. This is because some products peel right off and won’t stick to the thinset. As a result, there is partial waterproofing. Some fabrics have a unique texture that lets them stick better to the shower. Features like anchoring fleece or fleece webbing give such membrane stronger adhesion. For a liquid membrane, ease of application involves fast drying time and multiple application methods. Regardless of the type that you choose, ensure that it is easy to apply.
Durability
If the membrane cracks during use, it will ultimately affect the shower. Hence, we recommend that you look for membranes that are strong and tear-resistant. If you need to apply more than one coat, we suggest that you purchase a membrane that dries faster. This way, you can apply more coats at a faster pace.
Product Review
Below are some of the waterproofing membranes that we recommend for your shower.
Ultra-High Performance Weather Resistant Tape
The Ultra-High-Performance Weather Resistant Tape by Gaffer Power is one of the best waterproofing membranes for shower. The transparent duct tape combines versatile and strong features to discrete adhere to your bathroom. By adhering smoothly to surfaces, it restores the features of such surfaces. The power steel duct tape is engineered as a see-through but heavy-duty weatherproof tape. This way, it withstands rain, humidity, and water. The product sticks well to uneven and rough surfaces including brick, glass, vinyl, etc. Since it is a tear tape adhesive, the product is easy to handle.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Easy to handle
- Biaxial-oriented propylene backing
Cons
- The clear frost color is not easy to find at hardware stores
Patch & Shield Power Tape
The all-weather Patch & Shield Power Tape comes in handy for sealing roofs, pipes, and other parts of the home. Another product by Gaffer Power, the flexible butyl tape allows you to recreate professional grade-sealing results all by yourself. What’s more, the result holds for a long time. 100% waterproof design of the adhesive patch is engineered to keep out water. A feature that is most desired in the shower. The ultra-strong adhesive backing of the product lets its stick to any surface under any condition. It is also active from -70 to 200-degree Fahrenheit.
Pros
- Money-back guarantee
- 100% waterproof
- Holds in different conditions
Cons
- The adhesion is not aggressive when it is wet
Schluter Kerdi 108 Sq Ft Waterproofing Membrane
Another excellent solution for a watertight shower is the Schluter Kerdi 108 Sq Ft Waterproofing Membrane. Made of soft polyethylene materials with crack prevention capabilities, the product is a bonded membrane that retards vapor. Either side of the product features webbing synthetic fibers that make it easy to bond with a thin-set mortar. Plus, tiles can be installed directly on the membrane without losing its bounding capabilities. For an even application, the manufacturer recommends that you use the product with the Schluter Kerdi trowel.
Pros
- Special fleece webbing
- Crack bridging capabilities
- Polyethylene waterproofing membrane
Cons
- It is a bit time consuming
XFasten Fiberglass Waterproofing Anti-Fracture Membrane Fabric Tape
Usage rating of over 40 years put the XFasten Fiberglass Waterproofing Anti-Fracture Membrane Fabric Tape on our list of the best waterproofing membrane for shower. Designed to prevent other sources of moisture from penetrating the shower walls, the product forms a barrier against moisture. Not just a barrier, it packs a formidable water barrier capability in an optimal thickness. It also prevents fracturing when it is bent at an extreme angle. This way, you can waterproof your shower with little experience. Plus, the product is compatible with most waterproofing polymers.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Flexible
- Easy to cut
Cons
- Got in the putty tool some customers used for the installation
Kohree Waterproofing Membrane Fabric
The Kohree Waterproofing Membrane Fabric offers an excellent waterproof performance by keeping moisture from your shower walls. Not just this, it prevents moisture from permeating your tiles and other flooring surfaces. Flexible and practical, the product is easy to measure out. It is also easy to cut to size. With enough thickness, the product is adjustable and pliable. This way, you can apply it excellently to sharp surfaces and corners of the shower. For lasting usage, the membrane won’t wrinkle or shrivel with use. It is also corrosion-resistant.
Pros
- Easy to install
- High-quality non-woven fabric
- Durable and versatile
Nova-Fiber 6-inch Mesh Tape for Liquid Waterproofing Membranes
The improved mesh tape for liquid waterproofing membranes is an improved version of the older model. The product is more flexible, stronger, longer, and denser. Plus, it does not contain fiberglass and works with any liquid latex-based waterproofing membrane. Since it is made from alkali-resistant synthetic fibers, the product outperforms fiberglass mesh tapes. It works with Hydro Ban, Redgard, AcquaDefense, and Hydro Barrier.
Pros
- No curling
- Easily absorb the overcoat
- Sticks well to the undercoat
Cons
- Thin
USG Durock Brand Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
Unlike other tape membranes that we have reviewed, the Durock Brand membrane is a liquid waterproofing membrane. As a result, it has a fast drying time for a quick project turnaround. It also bonds directly to ABS, PVC, and stainless steel drains. Furthermore, you can spray, brush, roll, or towel the membrane. The acrylic-based polymer product works for the shower with no need for an additional vapor retarder.
Pros
- Easy to put on the walls
- Thick and doesn’t drip
- Easy clean up when it is still wet
Cons
- There is a little odor
Mapei Mapelastic AquaDefense
The Mapei Mapelastic AquaDefense is easy to install with less than 50 minutes dry-time. The product is a premixed advanced liquid-rubber waterproofing membrane for sealing cracks under ceramic tiles. The product provides a continuous and thin barrier to protect the floors below and adjacent room from water from the shower. For additional protection, you can combine it with other sealant or reinforcing fabric from the same brand. The AquaDefense is floor-tested and is IAPMO listed for use as a shower pan liner.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Continuous barrier
- IAPMO-listed
Cons
- Some buyers didn’t receive the 5-gallon as escribed
Superhesive 4 Pack 2in(5cm) 164ft(50m) 5.9mil Fiberglass Tape
The Superhesive 4 Pack 2in(5cm) 164ft(50m) 5.9mil Fiberglass Tape features hot melt adhesives for a stronger bonding action. With better temperature tolerance than regular duct tapes, the product provides high tensile strength by running in-line pattern fiberglass filament. It bonds to most surfaces and provides excellent resistance against moisture and abrasion. Each roll has a 50mm with and, there is a 356-day guarantee on every purchase. We recommend that you use cut scissors for the best results.
Pros
- Quality guaranteed
- Strong bond
- Tear-resistant
Cons
- Leaves some stickiness on the scissors after cutting
SCHLUTER KERDI-BAND – 5” X 98’5”
The design of the SCHLUTER KERDI-BAND lets it waterproof the floor-to-wall connections and the but joints in the shower and bath. Its sheet appearance allows you to mold and cut it to any shape that you want. This way, the job of waterproofing is made easier. With anchoring fleece on both sides of the band, it is easy to set in place with thin-set mortar. There is also a vapor retardant feature on the product as it has a low water vapor permeance.
Pros
- Pliable to any shape
- Anchoring fleece on either side
- A low water vapor permeance
Cons
- Slightly thinner than regular Kerdi for some users
CUSTOM BLDG PRODUCTS LQWAF1-2 Redgard Waterproofing
One gallon of the CUSTOM BLDG PRODUCTS LQWAF1-2 Redgard Waterproofing allows you to seal your shower from moisture. By creating a seamless waterproof blockade, the product provides exceptional adhesion to decrease cracks in the walls and floors. The membrane bonds directly to metal, ABS drain assemblies, and stainless steel. It can also be used on exterior decks, cement backer boards, and concrete.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Works for exterior and interior substrate
- Isolates cracks
Cons
- Strong fume
Laticrete 9255-0005-2 Hydro Ban Commercial Unit
The Laticrete 9255-0005-2 Hydro Ban Commercial Unit comes in a 5-gallon unit to take care of cracks in the shower. Designed for thin performance, the load-bearing isolation membrane supports use without fabrics in the corners. The single-component solution features self-curing liquid rubber polymer. This polymer forms a seamless and flexible waterproofing membrane for shower. For flexible usage, the product bonds well to different substrates that include metal, ABS plumbing fixtures, and PVC. Plus, it has a fast drying time, and you can install stones and tile bricks directly onto the membranes.
Pros
- No solvents and non-flammable
- Easy to inspect
- Flexible membrane
Cons
- Messy application, wear a glove
Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating
The Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating provide excellent elongation with low VOC. EPA energy star rated, the coating is certified for safe use. The liquid rubber waterproofing coating is designed to specifically seal different areas of the home. It also has industrial waterproofing applications. Since the coating is water-based, it does not contain too much volatile organic compounds. The rubber membrane offers exceptional chemical resistance. High-end emulsion gives the coating solid bond strength.
Pros
- Water-based coating
- Easy to roll
- Durable solution
Cons
- Takes a long time to cure
Mapei Mapelastic AcquaDefense
Fast installation and dry-time are some of the notable features of the Mapei Mapelastic AcquaDefense. The pre-mixed advanced liquid-rubber crack-isolation membrane works for residential, industrial, and commercial environments. It comes handy to cover areas like corners, drains, and cracks in the shower. You can also use it with optional reinforced fabric from Mapei. You can flood-test the product after 12-hours of dry-time. Plus, it is IAPMO-listed. It dries in less than 50 minutes and is ready to be used with an epoxy mortar or Mapei polymer.
Pros
- No odor
- Time-saving
- Quick-drying
Cons
- The surface will crack if you wait too long before covering
Liquid Rubber Foundation and Basement Sealant
The Liquid Rubber Foundation and Basement Sealant are safe for use indoors and outdoors. Formulated for easy application, the sealant works for shower liners, basements, and other parts of the home. Since it is pre-mixed, you don’t need to waste time on mixing. The product contained is sealable for future use. Since the sealant is water-based, it is environmentally friendly.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly
- Easy to apply
- Highly flexible
Cons
- Won’t wet if applied in wet conditions
Conclusion
The best waterproofing membrane for shower doesn’t just protect your shower from damage, they also prevent costly repairs. The thickness of the membrane coupled with tear-proof features prevents wear out for stronger protection. Plus, they are easy to apply if they are executed correctly.