Would you like to repair RV shower walls again and again due to water damage? And it makes the wall weak. To keep your RV shower wall panel dry and neat, you need to waterproof them.
Homes are not the only living quarters where water can cause problems. RV bathroom, which is often made of drywall and tiles just like home shower walls, needs to be waterproofed.
This is because water leaking into your RV can lead to mold or mildew growth on the RV showers. It’s challenging to keep an RV shower unit from becoming moldy, especially in humid climates. But how to waterproof RV shower walls that will be hassle-free for you?
This article will provide you with several solutions to waterproof RV shower walls.
What is Waterproofing?
What Tools Do You Need?
To waterproof RV shower walls panels, you will need:
- Waterproofing material,
- Caulk gun or silicone sealant,
- Paint tray/surface,
- Painter's Tape and
- Drywall Taping Knife.
Easy Steps on How to Waterproof RV Shower Walls?
Waterproofing your RV shower surrounds is a simple process to help protect them from water damage. Here are a few steps on how to do it:
Clean the Surface
The surface should be free of any dirt, dust, or debris before you start sealing. You can use a broom or vacuum cleaner to clean it off. If the surface is heavily soiled, you can give it a good scrub with soap and water to remove all dirt.
Apply the Sealant
Using a caulk gun or silicone sealant, apply the sealing material to all seams, cracks, and holes in the drywall panels to reflect light. Make sure to cover the entire surface, and use a good amount of sealant so that it forms a watertight barrier.
Smooth it out
Use a taping knife or your fingers to smooth the sealant out and eliminate any bubbles. Make sure to wipe off any excess sealant that may be visible on the surface.
Allow it to Dry
Let the sealant dry for 24 hours before using the shower surround. Allow the sealant to dry completely before using your RV shower base again. Basically, it depends on which type of sealant you are using, so follow the instructions given with the product you have purchased.
Repeat as needed
If needed, you can reapply the sealant after a few weeks or months. This will ensure that the shower stall panels remain watertight and protected from moisture.
Different Types of Waterproofing for RV Shower Wall
Various types of sealing can be used to protect your RV shower walls, such as:
Wall Coatings
These are products that you can apply to block out moisture, but they aren't as strong as coating materials sometimes used on ships. These are available as pre-mixed, self-leveling compounds or as primers and sealers designed to be used with other wall coating materials.
Epoxies or Polyurethanes
These are coatings that offer high resistance to water penetration and are often used for boats or outdoor surfaces. They may be best if your structure has already been damaged by water.
Cement Backer Boards
These are thicker boards than structure coatings and made of cement, usually with an acrylic finish, which can be applied to the original plastic wall to provide a sealing base for tile or some other covering.
Water Repellents
These chemicals or treatments can be applied to a surface in order to prevent water droplets from penetrating it and ultimately resulting in runoff rather than being absorbed by it.
Additional Installation Tips
In considering a water profiling project at the RV shower surround, some additional considerations should be considered. These include:
1. Wrap Around the Showerhead: The showerhead is often the first point of water entry and should be sealed with a sealing material.
2. Protect Around the Water Faucet: The water faucet is another point of entry for water and should be sealed as well.
3. Sealed Around the Sink Holes: The holes for the sink should be filled in to keep water out of the RV.
4. Block Around the Bathtub: A bathtub is commonplace for water to accumulate and should be sealed well.
Why Should You Waterproof RV Shower Walls?
There are a few reasons why you should waterproof RV shower walls:
- To protect the fiberglass shower surround from water damage: Water can cause a lot of damage to surfaces over time, and it's essential to protect them from as much moisture as possible.
- To keep the shower pan looking new: A shower pan that is constantly exposed to water can start to look faded and dirty. Sealing will help keep shower pan looking new.
- To prevent mold and mildew: Mold and mildew can form quickly in wet environments, and sealing will help stop it from growing.
- To keep the RV safe: Water can cause electrical problems in RVs and can also lead to rusting and other damage. Waterproofing will help prevent all of these issues.
- To keep your RV in compliance with local or state laws: Some areas have strict water waste regulations, which means you could face fines if you don't waterproof RV shower surround.
- To save more money on repairs and maintenance in the future: Waterproofing is inexpensive when compared to the cost of potential problems with RVs down the road.
When waterproofing an RV shower surround wall panel, it's essential to use a sealant designed for this purpose.
Best Practices to Prevent Water Damage In The Future
There are a few ways to prevent water damage in the future:
Block all points of entry: Make sure to cover around the showerhead, water faucet, sinkholes, faucet spout, and better bath. This will help keep water from getting in.
Waterproof the shower door enclosure: Use a waterproofing material such as a sealant, coating, or cement backer board to protect the shower door walls from moisture.
Regularly check for leaks: Inspect your RV for any leaks and fix them as soon as possible. Leaks can cause a lot of water damage over time.
Remove excess water after showers: Ensure to drain all the water out of the shower surround after using it to the center drain. Standing water can cause a lot of damage.
Waterproof RV shower walls are an essential step in maintaining and protecting your RV.
Precaution While Doing This Project
It's also important to take all the necessary safety precautions when performing this project. Which includes:
- Wearing Gloves: This will help protect your hands from any chemicals or other materials you may come in contact with.
- Wearing Goggles: This will protect your eyes from any potential splashes.
- Using Proper Ventilation: Working with any kind of sealant can produce fumes, so ensure adequate ventilation when working in a confined space.
- Following all Safety instructions: Make sure to read and follow all safety instructions before starting this project.
FAQs
Let's talk about some frequently asked questions about sealing RV shower walls:
01. What is The Best Sealant for RV Shower Walls?
The best sealant for RV shower walls is a waterproofing material such as a sealant, coating, or cement backer board.
02. What are Some Tips for Using a Sealant Correctly?
Tips for using a sealant correctly include ensuring the surface is clean, applying enough material, and proper ventilation.
03. What Should I Do If There Is Already Water Damage to My RV Shower Walls?
If there is already water damage to your shower walls, you will need to waterproof them again, seal the leaks, and restore any damaged areas before attempting to use the shower.
04. Can I Use Regular Paint on My Rv Shower Walls?
Regular paint is not designed to withstand moisture, so it is not recommended for use on shower walls. But there are some paints designed specifically for bathroom use that could work.
Sealing your RV shower walls is an essential step in protecting your investment. By using a sealant specifically designed for this purpose, you can keep the shower looking new and prevent any water damage in the future.
Final Words
Waterproofing your RV shower walls is an essential step in protecting your investment. Using a sealant to waterproof your RV shower walls will prevent water from seeping through and damaging your interior and make cleanup easier after use.
It is also vital to know how to waterproof RV shower walls for an RV owner. The best thing about this sealing method is how easy it is to remove when repairs are needed or if you decide to move on with another vehicle. Most professionals recommend reapplying every six months just to be safe.
Depending on the type of sealant used in previous projects, it may need to cure before applying another coat. If this is the case, wait at least 24 hours before sealing again.
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