You might have considered if you should apply RedGard to the bathroom floor. What can happen if you do so, and how to do it? We've researched these answers for you.
Applying RedGard is optional, however, RedGard provides a water-resistant finish to the bathroom subfloor. Keep in mind that you should apply RedGard before you install tile or flooring, as RedGard is intended for the subfloor.
Refer to the steps below on waterproofing the bathroom floor with RedGard:
- Gather tools and supplies
- Prepare the area
- Apply the RedGard
- Install the tiles
In this article, we'll discuss what RedGard is and what it's for. We'll figure out if your bathroom floor needs this waterproofing sealant, and how to apply it. Of course, we'll talk about relevant things to this topic. So, come and learn with us again. Let's continue reading!
Should You Apply RedGard on the Bathroom Floor?
RedGard is a specific product that can seal and waterproof the surface beneath the tiles or any flooring. You can also use it on walls and other similar surfaces.
See below the complete steps.
Gather Tools & Supplies
You should know the tools you need throughout the process. See below such tools:
RedGard
We'd recommend a gallon of RedGard can cover from 25 to 55 square feet. It's good to spread the RedGard with a paint roller. This way, a single gallon can cover up to 110 square feet. It's significant to measure the area of the bathroom floor to estimate how many gallons you need.
Paint Roller, Tray, & Brush Set
A paint roller helps spread the RedGard faster, while the tray is for measuring the amount of RedGard to use. Also, a paintbrush is good for steep, uneven surfaces like pipelines and corners. You can get a set of the three tools in one purchase.
See this paint roller set on Amazon.
Waterproofing Membrane
It's a type of special fabric or tape that aids in waterproofing by prohibiting moisture from penetrating the surface.
See this waterproofing membrane on Amazon.
Silicon Caulk
When silicone caulk dries, it hardens and seals the gap from water.
See this silicon caulk on Amazon.
Mask and Gloves
Protect yourself from unhealthy chemicals by wearing a mask and gloves.
Tiles
Make sure you use strong tiles for the bathroom floor.
Thinset Mortar
It's a mixture of cement, mortar, water, and other chemicals that you'll use to adhere tiles to the subfloor.
See this thin-set mortar on Amazon.
Trowel
Use a trowel to spread and flatten the thin-set mortar to lay the tiles.
Floor Mop
Use a floor mop to clean the tiles after your project is complete.
Prepare the Area
As part of your preparation, you should clean and dry the bathroom floor. You should also not use the bathroom for the next few days until you finish the entire procedure. It's best to schedule this project so that you will not ruin the process.
Next is to repair minor damage like cracks, holes, and uneven spots. Apply a small amount of RedGard to them. You can also use a mortar or cement mixture to seal such damage. However, just ensure that any repairs completely dry before proceeding to the next steps.
Apply the RedGard
If the bathroom floor is ready, you can now proceed to apply the RedGard. See the steps below:
- Wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself from irritation.
- Use a wooden stick and stir the RedGard well before pouring it on the paint tray.
- Coat the drains with the first layer of RedGard.
- Cut the reinforcing tape, then put it around the drains.
- Overlap the second layer of RedGard on the reinforcing tape.
- Apply silicon caulk along the edges between the bathroom wall and floor. This helps prevent wastewater from leaking into the adjacent rooms.
- You should then apply the RedGard with a roller and paintbrush. Spread the RedGard all throughout the bathroom floor, and around the drains and any protruding pipelines. Applying RedGard on walls is optional, but it's beneficial for the bathroom.
- Wait for the RedGard to settle. The color should change from pink to dark red, indicating that it's getting dry.
- Apply the second layer of RedGard throughout the bathroom floor, around drains and protruding pipelines. Wait again until everything gets dry.
- Pour a bucket of water to test the RedGard. The water should go directly down the drain, and the sprinkled droplets on the floor should be minimal.
You can watch the steps here in applying the RedGard:
Install the Tiles
Although the bathroom floor is not water-resistant, it's still not recommended to use it until you install tiles. Otherwise, your feet may get irritated if you refuse to tile the bathroom.
Bathroom tiles can add a layer of protection, which helps withstand strong impacts and floor deformation. You can seek guidance from a professional for further assessment.
See below for the general steps in installing the tiles:
- Prepare a mixture of thin-set mortar.
- Using a trowel, spread a layer of thin-set on the floor.
- Start laying the tiles from the furthest corner and edge of the bathroom. Shake the tiles a bit too, allowing the mortar to settle beneath them.
- Cut the tiles to fit into the corners and edges. Let the tiles sit for a day.
- Mix grout in a bucket, then apply it between the tile gaps.
- Scrape off excess grout.
- Wash the tiles with a sponge and water. Let the tiles dry.
Benefits & Limitations of RedGard
Any waterproofing products offer a lot of benefits despite having limitations. It's significant to understand what can you get by applying a RedGard on the bathroom floor, and what limitations you should know. See below the list of benefits and limitations.
Benefits
Below are the benefits of using a RedGard:
- Easy to apply with a roller.
- Suitable for waterproofing areas like pools and shower floors.
- Is quick to dry.
- Can reach down the crack of at least 1/8 inches deep.
Limitations
See below some limitations of RedGard:
- Not applicable for areas with high water pressure.
- Not suitable for temperature that will drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit on first 72 hours of application.
- Is not an adhesive.
How Long Before RedGard Dries?
It usually takes around one to two hours for the RedGard to dry upon application. This depends on the temperature and the ventilation of the area. However, you can dry it faster by turning on an electric fan to ease the moisture.
Is RedGard Toxic?
RedGard, like any other waterproofing substance, is toxic. RedGard contains hazardous chemicals that are meant for water resistance ability. It's not good to touch the RedGard with bare hands, as well as smell it.
However, RedGard is safe when applied correctly. You just need proper ventilation while waterproofing the bathroom floor, so that you will not inhale the hazardous chemicals. Also, make sure you wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself from irritation.
You can use a bathroom scent to eliminate any lingering odor from RedGard, and other odors from your project.
See this bathroom scent on Amazon.
Can You Paint on Top of RedGard?
You can add a layer of paint on top of the RedGard, considering that you use a primer. The purpose of a primer is to maximize the adhesion of the surface before you apply the paint. Primer also serves as a sealant that can cover the cracks on the surface. You can follow the steps below:
- Allow the surface to dry.
- Apply a primer on top of the RedGard.
- Apply two layers of paint on the surface. Let the paint dry.
Conclusion
This article taught us that it's recommended to waterproof your bathroom tiles with a RedGard. This will enhance the floor's surface and keep you safe from using the bathroom. Just remember to consult an expert to tell you the best plan for the best results.
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