Are you interested in knowing how to waterproof the window in the shower? This is an important aspect, especially in a space that is bounded by water on a daily basis like your shower or bathroom. By ensuring proper waterproofing, you save your home from costly damages.
With the aid of our article below, you will learn more about the process as well as the different materials used to restrict moisture on your window. But before that, it’s also important that you have an idea why waterproofing is relevant.
Why Waterproofing is Crucial?
From preventing water leaks to warding off flooding, waterproofing is a pivotal part of any home construction or improvement. The main reason is due to moisture and humidity that easily finds their way into the interiors of your dwelling.
And unfortunately, these are some of the major culprits of water leaks, molds, and even flooding. Of course, all these consequences negatively impact the structural integrity of your home. Therefore, you should give priority to waterproofing as a preventive measure.
Now that you understand the relevance of waterproofing, let’s take a look at 10 easy ways to keep your home essentials in good condition every after many years. Each of these techniques varies accordingly. Some may just be a provisional solution while some are reliable techniques for long-term usage.
What are the Different Ways to Waterproof Windows in Showers?
1. Drape a curtain at the shower ceiling.
A shower curtain is certainly an inexpensive way to soften up the vibes of the bathroom and limit the abundance of natural light. It also adds a level of privacy from outside views. But did you know that a shower curtain is more than just an added accessory to your home?
It’s actually a quick and inexpensive way to avoid water from getting to your window. So, if you’re looking for a temporary fix, take advantage of placing a shower curtain to prevent moisture build-up on your window. In doing so, you may need a shower rod track to place the curtain.
Meanwhile, it’s highly recommended that you opt for plastic curtains to thwart the water away from the window. Another option would be nylon products since these are generally waterproof. There are lots of choices from hardware shops and even online stores, so do your research first before your purchase.
2. Replace the window sill with sloped-down tile.
A flat positioning in the shower can lead to water accumulation. And aside from the shower drain, sills have a tendency to collect water over time. That’s why another way to waterproof is to position the window sill downwards.
Deterioration is also more prominent when you have a wooden window sill. Hence, keeping a window sill dry may be a challenge, especially if the shower spray is located near the window. So, it’s suggested that you replace the wooden ledge with a tiled, pitched sill.
3. Pick a solid surface material for your window sill.
Although a tiled sill is a good option in the bathroom, the best recommendation would be to choose a solid tile surface. Why? It’s because tile sill generally comes with numerous grouted seams that may accumulate moisture in the long run.
Hence, a solid surface is more commendable for seamless waterproofing. With a solid material, possible water accumulation easily runs and drips into the floor rather than getting stuck on the lines. And as mentioned earlier, you should make sure that the tile follows a downward slope for more efficient drainage.
4. Choose a vinyl-clad window.
While a wooden jamb provides solid support for the windows, it may not be a good option, especially if your shower spray is located next to the window area. Therefore, the next technique would be to install a vinyl window to prevent deterioration caused by moisture.
Vinyl is such a dependable material when it comes to showers, bathrooms, and kitchens. It is made of strong, multiple layers that can withstand spills, moisture, and even scratches. Simply said, it’s water-resistant, that’s why it’s the best option if you want a permanent solution to waterproof the window.
5. Install a fiberglass window.
If you’re looking for more glass options, there’s the fiberglass window. This may be more expensive than vinyl, but you won’t be disappointed because the composition of the material is actually very durable. It’s eight times stronger than vinyl-clad windows, featuring reinforced glass fibers.
In addition to that, fiberglass windows are customizable, which means you can fit them according to your preferences. And just like vinyl, this offers excellent waterproofing capabilities that leave your window shower in tip-top condition even after many years.
So, if you compare fiberglass vs. vinyl, the former would be the best. This might just be the right type of window for those who have extra money to spare for a long-lasting, waterproof material. Still, you need to consider a lot of factors, especially the requirements of your home before you make your decision.
6. Make use of waterproof blinds.
Talking about vinyl, there’s a great addition to your bathroom that you can take advantage of to protect the shower window from water. Vinyl window blinds are first-rate bathroom window treatments when it comes to waterproofing.
Since vinyl blinds are made of waterproof materials, these are the perfect accessories to drape over the whole window to restrict transparency and water acquisition. Plus, these only require minimal care. So, if you need a short-term fix, this is a remarkable method.
When installing the blinds, try to use grout lines to attach the curtain to the tiles. Meanwhile, if you want to put the blinds directly on the wall, then it may require a diamond drill bit to mount the blinds.
7. Make sure you use a good silicone caulk.
Silicone caulk has always been a valuable material for home construction and renovations. This is a remarkable sealant that restricts both air and moisture from getting into the surface. That’s why it’s generally used to seal spaces between two surfaces, perhaps between the wooden frame and the window.
Most traditional tiled bathrooms use a cement board for added safety from dampness. So, try to level the board with the window frame before adding the silicone caulk. Aside from the sealant, you may need other materials like latex-modified thin-set to ensure complete fitting between the cement board and jamb.
And since the windows are typically positioned along the exterior wall, signs of wear are quite inevitable. The varying temperature can weaken and deteriorate the materials. Therefore, you need to check the area annually to identify potential damage to the joints and grouts.
Annual check-ups are very important in keeping your home in good condition. This also provides you an idea of the current state of your house so you can make necessary improvements like the replacement of moldy insulation and repair of damaged wall studs.
8. Take advantage of glass blocks.
Ever heard of glass blocks? These are remarkable materials made from glass that are also used as windows in the shower. Unlike normal windows, this highlights a visual obstruction to provide privacy while also ensuring light and ventilation inside the room.
When installing glass blocks, it’s important that you seal the spaces using a glass block mortar. This material is specifically designed to ensure a waterproof joint between the glass units. Thus, you need to use this instead of normal cement so the blocks are attached durably to the wall.
More so, you should determine beforehand the design as well as the number of blocks needed. Henceforth, take the measurements before your purchase to save time.
9. Completely remove the windows.
This might be your last resort if the waterproofing issues still persist even with the numerous methods mentioned earlier. However, do take note that removing the entire window near the shower could be a major project, which means this is a lengthy process and even a costly one.
So, if you’ve decided to close up the window, you need to start with the removal of the tiled wall and the rest of the tile surround, including the window, trim, and frame. During the process, make sure you extricate all moldy accumulation.
Afterward, take away the wall studs and the header stud. At this point, you should evaluate the health of the wall and identify if there are possible damages due to dampening. Get rid of any deteriorated sections and then install the new wall studs. Don’t forget to add proper insulation as well as a barrier.
You may also incorporate cement board or drywall inside before adding the exterior side. This is crucial for the added protection of your shower area.
10. Plan out your shower area thoroughly.
The above-mentioned tips give you a notion that planning your shower and bathroom is definitely important, or else you’ll be up to a major bathroom remodel. Thus, it’s pivotal that you position the window to be not very near the shower spray to prevent moisture from seeping into the window.
Conclusion
Waterproofing your window and shower area in general is crucial for the maintenance of your home. So, if you want your house not to be subject to deterioration, keep an eye on these relevant steps.
