Although waterproofing arrangements for kitchens and bathrooms are less conspicuous compared with other renovation works, they are closely tied to quality of life and are frequently overlooked. If waterproofing is poorly handled during renovation, various leakages and material‑damage issues will occur frequently, undermining residential comfort.
I. How to Prevent Water Leakage
1. Material Selection
To keep kitchens and bathrooms free from leakage, high‑quality materials must be chosen. Water supply pipes are concealed building components in kitchens. Drainage pipes should be not only high‑quality but also brand‑name for reliable performance. Regardless of the waterproofing materials purchased, always check their inspection reports and qualification certificates.
2. Water‑Storage Test
A water‑storage test is indispensable before renovation. Conduct a 48‑hour water‑retention test for kitchens and bathrooms to check for water seepage into the floor below and avoid future disputes with neighbours.
3. Grooving
Grooving is required for embedding wires in walls. Special attention should be paid to backfilling after grooving layout. Seal gaps with special joint sealant to prevent potential leakage in later use.
II. Construction Procedures
1. Surface Preparation
Clean thoroughly prior to waterproofing work to minimise dust. Level the base layers of walls and floors.
2. Rigid Waterproof Coating
Add a small amount of water to achieve a relatively thick consistency. Apply the coating first to internal corners and pipe roots. Next, carefully coat the perimeter of walls, followed by large‑area application on walls and floors.
3. Flexible Waterproof Coating
Apply flexible waterproof coating after the rigid coating is fully cured. Mix with water to a thinner consistency. Similar to rigid coating, treat internal corners and pipe roots first, then proceed with wall‑and‑floor coating. For the second coat, prepare a thicker mix for large‑area brushing.
4. Definition of Rigid and Flexible Waterproof Materials
Rigid waterproof material is cement‑sand‑based, blended with a small dosage of admixtures and high‑molecular polymers to form cement‑mortar waterproof coating with anti‑seepage performance.
Flexible waterproof material is mainly composed of organic substances such as asphalt and felt. Bonded onto roof structural slabs for levelling, it forms an effective waterproof protective layer.
III. Waterproof Zones in Kitchens and Bathrooms
1. Walls
Kitchen wall waterproofing shall reach 30 cm in height. Where washing machines or hand basins are installed, raise the waterproof height up to 1.2 m. For bathrooms, full‑wall waterproofing is preferred; if not applied up to ceiling level, the height must be no less than 1.8 m.
2. Floors
Besides wall waterproofing, floor waterproofing must not be neglected. Corners and gaps tend to trap water and develop mould. Ensure these gaps receive an even coat of waterproof paint.
IV. Solutions for Water Seepage
1. Large‑Area Seepage
In case of extensive seepage in kitchens or bathrooms, remove the existing waterproof layer and floor tiles, redo the entire waterproofing system, pass the water‑retention test, and finally restore the surface finish.
2. Localised Seepage
Local leaks often occur at wall bases and drain outlets. Cut through to the original waterproof layer and clean the surface thoroughly, then re‑apply waterproof coating. After the waterproof layer is completely cured, perform a roughly 48‑hour water‑retention test. Restoration of surface layers is permitted only if zero leakage is confirmed.
Inconspicuous as it is, waterproofing safeguards household safety. Kitchen‑and‑bathroom waterproofing constitutes a critical renovation procedure. Select premium‑grade materials and follow standard construction steps strictly to guarantee functional waterproofing performance. If leakage is detected in daily life, carry out timely repairs so that normal usage will not be disrupted.
