Don’t Let Leaks Win:

April 6, 2023 

Why Sealing Joints in Water Closets and Balcony Tile Flooring is Essential.

Water closets and balcony tile flooring are important features of any home or building, but they are also vulnerable to damage over time. One of the most common causes of damage to these areas is the failure to properly seal the joints. If left unchecked, this can lead to a host of problems, including leaks, moisture buildup, and even structural damage. In this blog, we will explore the importance of sealing joints in water closets and balcony tile flooring every 2-3 years, and the risks associated with neglecting this critical maintenance task.

“Why is it important to seal joints in water closets and balcony tile flooring?

Water closets and balcony tile flooring are exposed to moisture and water on a regular basis, which can seep through the joints between the tiles or other surfaces. Over time, this moisture can cause damage to the underlying structure of the floor or wall, leading to mold, rot, and other problems. It can cause damage to the surrounding materials, including the tile bedding. Over time, this can lead to deterioration of the tile bedding and a reduction in the overall lifespan of the tile flooring. In fact, without proper maintenance and sealing of the joints, the lifespan of tile flooring can be reduced to as little as 20%. In extreme cases, this can lead to the tiles cracking, shifting, or even falling out of place.

Properly sealing the joints helps to prevent water from seeping through, protecting the underlying structure and ensuring the longevity of the tile and other surfaces.

Neglecting this maintenance can lead to several issues, including the following:

1. Tile Flooring: Water can seep into the joints of the tile flooring, causing the tiles to become loose or crack. The water can also damage the grouting between the tiles, leading to a weakened surface. Over time, this can cause the tile flooring to deteriorate and reduce its lifespan by up to 80%.
2. BB coba: BB coba is a waterproofing layer that is applied below the tile flooring. If the joints of the tile flooring are not sealed correctly, water can seep into the BB coba layer, causing it to weaken. This can lead to water leakage into the ceiling of the floor below and cause significant structural damage.
3. Structure damage: Water may reach out to concrete mother slab made of RCC through porosity in tile bedding and BB coba. It is highly dangerous if RCC is exposed to water. Water leakage can cause the water to penetrate the concrete slab of the structure, leading to damage. This is particularly dangerous if the concrete slab is made of reinforced concrete (RCC) as water can corrode the steel reinforcement, leading to structural failure, costly repairs and even safety hazards.
4. Interior wall: Water leakage can also lead to capillary action in the adjacent walls, causing rising dampness. This can cause paint to peel and interior damage to occur, leading to expensive repairs.
5. Ceiling of below floor: Water can leak into the ceiling of the floor below, causing water stains, mold, and damage to the electrical systems. This can be a significant safety hazard and requires immediate attention.
6. Moisture buildup: Moisture that seeps through the joints can lead to the buildup of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and cause unpleasant odors.

How often should joints be sealed?

To ensure the longevity and durability of your water closet or balcony tile flooring, it is important to seal the joints every 2-3 years. This will help to prevent moisture buildup and damage to the underlying structure, ensuring that your home or building remains safe and comfortable for years to come.

In conclusion, sealing the joints in your water closet and balcony tile flooring is a critical maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Neglecting this task can lead to a host of problems, including leaks, moisture buildup, and structural damage, which can be costly and even dangerous. By sealing the joints every 2-3 years, you can help to prevent these issues and ensure the longevity and durability of your home or building.