Choosing a washroom contractor
Washroom work depends heavily on the plumber and tile fixer. Ask who will do the waterproofing and plumbing, and look at washrooms they renovated some time ago to see how they have held up.
Ask what waterproofing method they use and whether they flood test before tiling. A contractor who skips this step is taking a risk with your ceiling below.
Ask whether they will handle the electrical work for lights, the exhaust fan and any water heater, or whether a separate electrician is needed. Electrical points in wet areas must be placed and protected properly.
Good ventilation helps a washroom last. An exhaust fan or opening window reduces damp, mould and paint damage, so make sure it is part of the plan, not an afterthought.
- Older completed washrooms to inspect
- Clear waterproofing method
- Flood test before tiling
- Skilled tile fixer for neat joints and slopes
Contracts and payments
The quote should specify the waterproofing system, pipe type, tile area and fittings. If you are buying fittings yourself, state that clearly so there is no confusion.
Tie payments to stages such as strip-out and pipes, waterproofing and flood test, tiling and final fittings. Keep a final amount until there are no leaks.
If the washroom sits above a bedroom or lounge, discuss how the contractor will protect that room during the work and who repairs any damage to its ceiling if a leak appears during the job.
If you are renovating more than one washroom, consider doing them in sequence so at least one stays usable for the family throughout the work.
Quality checks that prevent leaks
The flood test is the most important check. Water should stand on the waterproofed floor for the period your contractor recommends, with someone checking the ceiling below for damp.
Check that the floor slopes towards the drain, that pipes are pressure tested and that the exhaust fan vents outside. Joints around the basin, shower and toilet should be sealed properly.
Check the finish carefully at handover. Tiles should be level with even joints, the toilet and basin should be firm, taps should not drip and the shower should drain away fully without leaving standing water.
- Pressure test supply pipes
- Flood test before tiling
- Correct slope to floor drain
- Sealed joints around fittings