I recently had my bathtub area tiled by a contractor, but they mistakenly forgot to apply a tanking system to the plasterboard before tiling. Luckily, they noticed it before grouting and suggested a fix: removing the tiles, using a tanking kit on the existing plasterboard, and then retiling. However, I'm worried that removing the tiles and the adhesive might damage the plasterboard. I've heard that for tanking to work properly, you need a clean and smooth surface. Given this situation, would it be advisable to replace the plasterboard entirely before proceeding with the tanking and retiling? I'd appreciate any insights on what issues I should be cautious of.
2 Answers
Tanking is basically the process of waterproofing walls to protect against moisture damage—super important in areas like bathrooms! You really do want a smooth, clean surface for it to adhere properly. You're right to be cautious about the state of the plasterboard after removing the tiles. Sometimes, it might be better just to re-sheet, especially if the plasterboard is already compromised. Just my two cents!
Oh man, that’s a tough spot! Honestly, I’d recommend replacing the plasterboard instead of trying to salvage it. I had a similar experience last year with my bathroom. I thought I could just patch up some damaged plasterboard, but it didn't hold well, and I ended up with cracked tiles later on. Starting with fresh plasterboard gives you peace of mind that everything is secure. Keep an eye out for uneven surfaces or any soft spots on the board—those are definitely red flags.