Tanking Membranes Explained

A tanking membrane is a water-resistant barricade that should be installed in a wet room environment. The membrane can be placed underneath any tiling as it helps to prevent water from seeping through, causing damage to the underlying wood or plasterboard.

Tanking membranes are typically made from PVC or polythene. They are available in a variety of different thicknesses, with thicker membranes resisting water best. For this reason, if you are concerned about possible leaks in your wet room, it’s definitely worth opting for a thicker membrane to be on the safe side.

Why Do I Need a Tanking Membrane?

If you’re planning on installing a wet room, it is essential that you have a tanking membrane in position. They are designed to fight exposure to water, and help to maintain your wet room looking its best for years to come. Without a tanking membrane, your floors and walls could be at risk of serious water damage.

Will Tanking Stop Damp?

A waterproof tanking membrane will not prevent dampness from happening, if the underlying cause is not addressed. For example, if there is a problem with the drainage around your property, this will need to be fixed before the tanking membrane can be effective.

However, once the underlying cause of the dampness has been addressed, establishing a wall tanking membrane can help to prevent it from recurring.

Are Waterproofing and Tanking The Same?

While waterproofing and tanking are similar, there is a key difference between the two: Waterproofing is typically used to make a shower room watertight. This is done by installing a sealant around the perimeter of the shower.