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Waterproofing shower before re-tiling
Mark 04/11/2026 - 2:22 PM
We will be knocking down some old shower tile in my kids’ bathroom and putting up new tile. Not sure yet if concrete or drywall is behind it. Our home is early 2000s in Durham Region. Have seen two options of what is usually behind old shower tile: either drywall with a metal mesh, or concrete. Looking for suggestions on how to approach waterproofing it if it’s drywall. Have heard positive things about installing Go Board. However, if it’s concrete, I’ll leave intact. In the case of concrete, is further waterproofing needed? Thanks to any experts with suggestions.
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2 Answers
GTA Handy Pros
Rating: 5 out of 5
The most common area for shower leaks is the joint where the wall meets the shower floor or tub lip. Whether using GoBoard or concrete, ensure this bottom joint is heavily sealed with polyurethane sealant or a reinforced waterproofing band
Answered30 June 2026
0
Carlos Rodrigues
Rating: 5 out of 5
Metal mesh is old school. Unfortunately concrete is not waterproof. I would look at using a product like Schluter. It's pricey but when install correctly works very well. There are roll on water proofing products but in my opinion do not do as good a job water proofing as the Schluter products.
Answered4 November 2026
0