Waterproofing: the Invisible Half
Tile is the pretty 10%. This page is about the dry 90%.
Every failed surround we tear out in Plainville 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.
- 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
What goes on Plainville tub walls: the shortlist we actually install.
Dense, wipeable, the value default.
Calm modern walls, fewer joints.
Plumbing-wall art that costs little.
Pattern, grip and vintage charm.
Plainville notes
In Plainville we photograph every membrane coat with that day's date: Plainville landlords are repeat customers: a fresh surround and sealed grout between tenants rents the unit faster than any other upgrade. Dry walls are a system, not a material — and the system is what our workmanship stands on.
Common questions
All work when installed to spec; the installer matters more than the brand. We use sheet membrane in showers and paint-on for tub surrounds, per manufacturer coverage rates.
Our workmanship warranty covers the assembly we build — substrate, membrane, joints and seals. The quote states terms plainly; no weasel words.
You must — we photograph every stage and walk you through before setting begins. Any bidder who won't show rough work is telling you something.
Roughly $350–$700 of a standard surround: board, membrane, sealants and the labor to do them right. It's the cheapest insurance in the job.