Mike Holmes Shares The One Thing You Can't Skip If You Want Your Bathroom Flooring To Last

Are you about to begin a bathroom renovation? If so, you probably already have inspiration or some good ideas for your bathroom flooring. But HGTV star Mike Holmes has essential advice for bathroom renovations and it's that the best material for your bathroom flooring and your efforts of installing it might be for nothing if you don't properly waterproof the floors first. Sure, your beautiful Portuguese tiles will be eye-catching for guests, but if the floors aren't "watertight," the tiles and grout won't stand a chance. Over time, your tiles may begin to deteriorate or even shift, which eventually leads to damage like cracking.

When it comes to bathroom renovations, homeowners are often too focused on the aesthetics, such as searching for the perfect vanity lighting, picking out unique flooring material, and the perfect modern chic shower head. And while there's nothing wrong with focusing on the looks, Holmes emphasizes the importance of "what's underneath the surface and behind the walls." On his official blog, Make It Right, the star contractor explains waterproofing is not only essential for the longevity of your bathroom, but also to prevent decay that could lead to seriously costly structural damages.

So, the last thing you'd want to do is skip this step simply because it doesn't feel necessary. Or worse, you may think you're saving money by skipping it — but the cost of repairing water damage will blow your mind, and will far outweigh the cost of properly waterproofing your bathroom from the start. Don't even hesitate. When it comes to waterproofing your bathroom, just do it.

Now that you're aware of how and why it's so crucial to waterproof your bathroom, here's how you should do it. First, you need to assess your subfloor and make sure it's flat, even, and in mint condition. Check for any moisture issues or other damages and if it seems to be in good condition, you're good to move on to the important step, waterproofing. Then, going in with a primer for the type of flooring you have and ensuring all seams between the floor and walls are properly sealed will help in creating a smoother, more durable base for waterproofing. 

Time to start waterproofing! Mike Holmes opts to use a waterproof uncoupling membrane that's sheet-style, so he goes in with an application of unmodified thin-set mortar on the substrate. But, you can also use liquid-based waterproofing membrane that does not require an application of thin-set like other experts do. Once your choice of waterproofing is placed and fully cured, go in with a layer of unmodified thin-set mortar, which will securely bond the tiles to the surface. Holmes prefers uncoupling waterproofing membranes because it helps absorb any movement in the subfloor, which is another key factor in preventing cracks. Ultimately, Holmes stresses the importance of using quality material and correct installation when it comes to successfully waterproofing a bathroom. 

So, you've decided you'll definitely be waterproofing your bathroom floors and waterproofing your bathroom countertops with silicone sealant, but making your bathroom "watertight" doesn't stop there. There are a few other crucial areas in the bathroom that'll need just as much attention to protect the room in the long run. Neglecting these spots can also lead to hidden leaks and a bathroom with a bad mold issue.

Once your floors are done, it's time for the walls. Mike Holmes says the best way to waterproof walls is by using a "continuous layer of moisture protection." While you're at it, ensure there are no gaps in your seams and if there are make sure to seal them. Also, for the walls surrounding a bathtub, Steve White, a contractor whose specialty is bathroom remodeling, wants everyone to "extend the waterproofing and tile out of the tub area a couple of inches," as he writes on the Bathroom Remodeling Teacher blog. It's a step that'll keep moisture damage at bay. 

Windows in your bathroom? Both Holmes and White emphasize the importance of ensuring there's a sturdy waterproof seal surrounding any window frame. When it comes to materials, always go for the ones that are more water-resistant. For example, porcelain tiles are an excellent and durable choice for flooring, granite or quartz are popular choices for countertops, and PVC baseboards are better suitable than solid wood ones for bathrooms as they're constantly exposed to moisture.