Bathroom Renovation Guide: Waterproofing, Cost & Layout
Waterproofing is the most critical step in any bathroom. The correct sequence, material choices and cost breakdown.
2026-06-09 · 6 min read
The bathroom is the most heavily used wet area in a home and the place where mistakes cost the most. When rebuilding a bathroom, the invisible work — waterproofing and falls — matters more than the finishes you can see.
What is the correct sequence for a bathroom renovation?
The order should be: strip-out, first-fix plumbing and electrics, screed and falls, waterproof membrane, tiling, sanitaryware and fittings, silicone and final check. If waterproofing is not done BEFORE tiling, leaks appear years later in the flat below.
Which waterproofing method is the safest?
A two-component cementitious liquid membrane, applied with reinforcing tape at corners and pipe collars, is the most durable solution. For level-access wet rooms rather than a shower tray, the drainage fall should be at least 1.5–2%.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a small bathroom renovation take?
- A typical apartment bathroom is finished in 7–12 working days. The curing times for waterproofing and screed cannot be rushed; skipping them is the most common quality failure.
- Can you tile over existing tiles without removing them?
- It is technically possible but we don't recommend it: you can't see the condition of the existing waterproofing and the floor level rises. The correct approach is to strip back and renew the waterproofing.