Waterproofing: the Invisible Half
Tile is the pretty 10%. This page is about the dry 90%.
Every failed surround we tear out in West Hartford tells the same story: decent tile over drywall, greenboard, or mastic that re-emulsified years ago. The tile did not fail — the wall behind it dissolved. Our rebuilds assume water WILL get past grout eventually, and manage it: cement board that doesn't swell, a bonded membrane on every wet surface, sealed fasteners, and silicone — never grout — at every corner and tub joint.
West Hartford notes
In West Hartford we photograph every membrane coat with that day's date: West Hartford's vintage baths reward restraint: a pro regrout and color-seal can make 1940s tile look intentional again instead of tired. Dry walls are a system, not a material — and the system is what our workmanship stands on.
- Cement board substrate. Won't swell, soften or feed mold when wet.
- Bonded membrane. Paint-on or sheet membrane over every wet-area square foot.
- Sealed penetrations. Valves, spouts and fasteners gasketed, not just grouted around.
- Movement joints. 100% silicone at corners, tub line and ceiling — grout cracks there.
- Photo documentation. You see the waterproofing before tile covers it. Always.
Dry-wall system, layer by layer
Six directions West Hartford tub owners choose between, with honest notes on each.
Porcelain subway
Dense, wipeable, the value default.
Stacked large-format
Calm modern walls, fewer joints.
Herringbone accent
Plumbing-wall art that costs little.
Mosaic & penny
Pattern, grip and vintage charm.