Water damage is one of the most expensive problems you can face in a bathroom. And guess where it often starts? Around the tub. Improper or missing waterproofing behind your tub surround can lead to mold growth, soft drywall, cracked tiles, and costly repairs.
If you're planning a remodel or thinking about refinishing your tub surround, understanding the basics of waterproofing is essential. In this post, we’ll share expert tub surround waterproofing tips that every homeowner, landlord, or property owner should know.
Whether you're doing it yourself or working with a pro, these insights will help you protect your investment and avoid unnecessary headaches. And if you're thinking about upgrading your bathroom, Bathtub Made New offers expert remodeling and refinishing services to help you get the job done right.
Why Waterproofing Your Tub Surround Matters
Every time someone showers, splashes of water hit the walls and corners of your tub surround. Without proper waterproofing, that moisture doesn’t just stay on the surface—it can soak into materials behind your tiles or panels.
Here’s what can happen if you skip waterproofing:
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Mold and mildew growth behind the walls
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Soft, crumbling drywall
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Loose or falling tiles
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Wood framing damage
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Expensive structural repairs
Even minor leaks over time can add up. A waterproofed tub surround helps keep your bathroom clean, safe, and strong for years.
Common Waterproofing Mistakes to Avoid
Unfortunately, many homeowners (and even some contractors) make basic waterproofing mistakes during installation. Here are the most common pitfalls:
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Skipping a waterproof membrane altogether, assuming tile and grout are enough
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Using greenboard instead of cement board, which can still absorb moisture
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Not sealing screw holes, seams, or corners properly
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Using only caulk without a reliable water barrier behind the walls
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Rushing the process without allowing materials to fully cure
Avoiding these mistakes is just as important as the techniques you use. Proper planning saves time, money, and stress down the road.
Tub Surround Waterproofing Tips from the Pros
Here’s how the experts do it:
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Start with cement board or foam backer board—never regular drywall or greenboard.
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Add a waterproof membrane over the backer board. This can be a sheet membrane or a liquid-applied version.
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Seal all seams, corners, and screw holes with waterproof tape or caulk.
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Use a flexible, mold-resistant caulk around joints and edges.
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Let everything cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before installing tile or panels.
These tub surround waterproofing tips will keep water where it belongs—inside the tub or shower, not behind it.
What Materials Work Best?
Choosing the right materials is half the battle. Here’s a breakdown:
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Cement board: Durable and moisture-resistant, but must be paired with a membrane
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Foam board (e.g., Wedi or Kerdi): Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to install
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Sheet membranes: Provide consistent coverage but may require careful fitting
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Liquid membranes: Great for tight spots and corners, but require even application
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Waterproof caulk: Use silicone-based or hybrid sealants made for bathrooms
Avoid regular drywall and general-purpose caulks—they won’t stand up to daily water exposure.
When to Call in a Professional
While some DIYers are confident handling waterproofing, there are times when hiring a pro is the smarter move:
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You’re remodeling the entire bathroom
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Your tub surround has visible water damage or mold
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You’re working with custom tilework or stone
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You’re unsure about the best materials or installation method
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You want it done right the first time
Bathtub Made New specializes in professional tub surround remodeling and refinishing—perfect for property owners who want fast, high-quality results without the mess or mistakes.
Preventative Maintenance After Waterproofing
Even with solid waterproofing in place, it pays to maintain your bathroom regularly:
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Check caulk lines every few months and reapply as needed
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Inspect grout for cracks or gaps
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Use a bathroom fan or open a window to reduce humidity
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Wipe down shower walls after each use to prevent buildup
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Keep an eye on corner seams, where leaks often begin
A few simple habits can help extend the life of your tub surround and keep moisture at bay.
Final Thoughts
Waterproofing may not be the most glamorous part of a bathroom remodel—but it’s one of the most important. Done right, it prevents mold, protects your walls, and keeps your bathroom beautiful for years.
By following the tub surround waterproofing tips we’ve shared above, you’ll save money, reduce maintenance, and avoid major repairs. And if you're planning a remodel, don’t go it alone—reach out to Bathtub Made New for expert refinishing and remodeling services that check all the boxes.
Want to get started? Contact our team today and protect your tub surround with expert help you can trust.