Hey everyone! I'm a bit anxious about my shower tile installation. My contractor has applied Red Guard and let it dry, but I noticed some gaps between the Hardie Backer boards. He mentioned he would be filling these gaps with caulk. Given that we had issues with our previous shower leaking, I'm worried about whether this is the right approach. I've read that some people use tape and mortar for the joints instead. Should I be insisting on that over just caulk? Thanks for your help!
3 Answers
Red Guard works best for surfaces that might have minimal movement. For bigger gaps, using foam backer rods and caulk can be helpful. On the other hand, mortar is strictly for joints that won’t move. For your case, caulking then laying down the Red Guard would have been ideal to ensure maximum water protection. It’s really about making sure there’s a solid barrier to prevent future leaks.
Honestly, it sounds like your contractor might be skipping a crucial step. Typically, you shouldn't just caulk after applying Red Guard. The proper method is to use tape and thinset before applying the Red Guard. Make sure you double-check the manufacturer's instructions to see what materials and methods are recommended. If he's not following the guidelines, you might want to reconsider letting him continue with the tile installation.
When it comes to caulking, the type really matters. Avoid using painter's caulk or anything that's not waterproof like Schluter Kerdi Fix. If you go with silicone, make sure it's 100% silicone and not just siliconized. I recommend looking into brands like Rapid Set Non-Sag Sealant or Hydro Ban’s Sealant for the best results. Personally, I use Laticrete fabric in my corners and coat it with Laticrete’s Hydro Ban for added protection, which could work well for your situation too.