Cape Town’s Coastal Humidity Demands Flawless Waterproofing – Here’s How to Nail It
A client in Clifton upgraded their cramped bathroom to a sleek wet room, only to face leaks that damaged their downstairs neighbor’s ceiling. Wet rooms are stunning but unforgiving—skip a step, and you’ll pay for it. Here’s how to waterproof like a pro, tailored to Cape Town’s salt air and high humidity.
Critical Steps for Leak-Proof Wet Rooms
- Waterproofing Membranes:
- Use polyurethane liquid membranes (not acrylic) for coastal zones. Apply 2 coats (1mm thickness each).
- Extend 200mm beyond shower area and 150mm up walls.
- Sloped Flooring:
- 2% slope toward drain (20mm drop per meter). Use laser levels for precision.
- For large wet rooms (>4m²), install a secondary drain near the door.
- Drainage Systems:
- Linear drains: Ideal for minimalist designs (positioned along walls or room edges).
- Tileable grates: Match floor tiles to maintain seamless aesthetics.
Common Mistakes
- Inadequate Curing: A Sea Point wet room failed because the membrane dried too fast in summer heat. Cure at 15–25°C with 50–70% humidity.
- Wrong Tile Adhesive: Non-flexible adhesives crack in humidity. Use C2TE S1 class adhesives.
FAQ
Q: How much does a wet room cost in Cape Town?
A: R3k–R5k/m² for basic; R8k–R12k/m² for luxury (heated floors, smart showers).
Q: Can I convert a small bathroom to a wet room?
A: Yes—even 3m² spaces work. Use wall-hung toilets and corner sinks.
CPT Builders
8 The Oval Pinelands
Cape Town
7405
021 012 5370
