
RedGard is a liquid waterproofing membrane that can be applied to shower walls and floors to prevent leaks and water infiltration. It is often used as an additional layer of protection over a PVC liner or cement shower pan, but it is important to ensure that the drain weep holes remain unobstructed to prevent water accumulation and potential mould growth. While some professionals rely solely on the PVC liner for waterproofing, others opt for the added insurance of RedGard, especially in areas where additional waterproofing is desired. The decision to use RedGard depends on personal preferences and specific waterproofing goals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| RedGard application | Apply RedGard to the final mortar bed and walls, leaving the weep holes unobstructed. Alternatively, stop RedGard application 2" above the shower head. |
| RedGard as a waterproofing layer | RedGard provides an additional waterproofing barrier, protecting against leaks and water infiltration. |
| RedGard as a backup layer | RedGard can serve as a backup layer if the PVC liner or seams are not installed perfectly. |
| RedGard and mold prevention | RedGard reduces water absorption into the mortar bed, minimizing the chances of mold and mildew growth. |
| RedGard and moisture sandwich | Applying a waterproofing layer over the PVC liner can create a "moisture sandwich," trapping moisture. |
| RedGard and drain bonding | RedGard can obstruct drain weep holes, causing water accumulation in the mortar bed and potential issues. |
| RedGard and tile adhesive | Do not use tile adhesive (mastic) over RedGard as it will not cure. |
| RedGard and thinset | Use powdered thinset that you mix with water over RedGard. Any good modified thinset can be used, except Schluter, which has specific requirements. |
| RedGard and primer | Use a primer over RedGard before applying joint compound. Any drywall or paint primer will work, but Killz is the most readily available option. |
| RedGard and liner | If you prefer not to use RedGard, ensure flawless PVC liner installation and proper slope towards the drain. |
| RedGard and code compliance | Building codes typically require a sloped final bed for showers. |
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What You'll Learn

RedGard is an excellent shower pan product
RedGard is an excellent product for shower pans, and it is a popular choice among contractors. It is a liquid waterproofing membrane that can be used to create a waterproof barrier in showers before installing tiles. It is approved by the Tile Council of America for interior and exterior use, indicating its effectiveness in withstanding harsh weather conditions.
RedGard is a versatile product that can be applied to various surfaces, including shower walls and mud pans. It is often used as a second waterproofing layer over a cement shower pan or an old mud job, enhancing the waterproofing of the shower. The product is easy to apply, and one gallon can cover approximately 124 to 140 square feet. It is recommended to apply two coats of RedGard, with the first coat diluted with water for better penetration.
RedGard also serves as a crack prevention membrane, ensuring that your shower remains intact and durable. It can be used with different types of mortar or thinset, providing flexibility in installation. Additionally, it has an open shelf life of about one year, allowing for convenient storage and future use.
One of the key advantages of RedGard is its ability to eliminate the issue of "wicking." Traditional rubber membranes used in shower pans may be prone to wicking, but RedGard creates a seamless barrier that effectively prevents water from seeping through. This makes it a superior choice for ensuring a long-lasting and waterproof shower installation.
In summary, RedGard is an excellent shower pan product that offers reliable waterproofing, versatility, and durability. It is a trusted choice for contractors and homeowners alike, providing peace of mind and a cost-effective solution for creating a waterproof shower.
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RedGard can be used as a second waterproofing layer
RedGard is a liquid waterproofing membrane that can be used to waterproof shower walls before installing tiles. It is a convenient method to ensure that your shower is fully waterproofed, and it is specified for interior and exterior use by the Tile Council of America.
To use RedGard as a second waterproofing layer, first, ensure that your drain sides are properly covered. Then, apply two heavy coats of RedGard to everything, paying special attention to the corners, which should get three coats. Check for pinholes after each coat, as this is the only way a small amount of water could penetrate.
If you are using a PVC liner method, it is essential to install a pre-slope before applying RedGard to prevent water build-up between the two liners. Your PVC liner should run up the wall at least a foot on top of your initial pre-slope and be attached to your drain. Then, apply your backer board, resting it on the slope and against the liner. Do not screw through the liner, but attach it firmly to the studs and down to about 8 inches above the deck.
After applying RedGard, you can use any good modified thinset over it. However, be aware that you cannot use tile adhesive (mastic) over RedGard as it will never fully cure.
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RedGard can be used on shower walls for tile
RedGard is a liquid waterproofing membrane that can be used on shower walls before installing tiles. It is an excellent product for waterproofing and is often used by contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike.
To use RedGard on shower walls for tile, follow these steps:
Firstly, ensure that you are not installing plastic behind your walls. This will create two waterproof membranes, which may trap moisture between them. Instead, use a cement-based backerboard as the wall substrate.
Next, apply the RedGard to the shower walls. You can use a regular paintbrush, paint roller, trowel, or even spray it on. If using a roller, apply the first coat horizontally and the second coat vertically to ensure full coverage. Most product specifications state that two coats are sufficient, but you can add a third coat for extra protection.
After applying the RedGard, let it dry completely. This may take up to a day or 24 hours. It is important to ensure that the RedGard has not shrunk enough to create holes or voids, especially in corners and seams.
Once the RedGard is dry, you can install the tile directly onto the membrane using a proper thinset mortar. Apply your tiles within 72 hours of applying the final coat of RedGard.
Additionally, RedGard can be used on shower pans or mud pans as an alternative to a regular pan membrane. However, always check the product specifications and website to ensure it is suitable for this application.
RedGard provides an excellent waterproofing solution for shower walls, and with proper installation, it will ensure that your tiled shower remains protected from moisture.
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RedGard can be used over a cement shower pan
RedGard is a liquid waterproofing membrane that can be used to waterproof shower walls before installing tiles. It is designed to be applied over a cement shower pan to create a waterproof barrier. This product is excellent for interior and exterior use and is specified by the Tile Council of America.
When using RedGard over a cement shower pan, it is essential to ensure that the surface is properly prepared. The cement shower pan should be clean, dry, and free of any debris or contaminants. It is also important to consider the compatibility of RedGard with other materials in the shower assembly.
In terms of application, RedGard can be applied using a paintbrush and a paint roller. It is recommended to start by thoroughly coating all the corners and angles with a paintbrush, as the consistency of RedGard is more like pudding than paint. After coating the corners, a paint roller can be used to cover the rest of the shower pan. It is important to ensure that the RedGard is applied evenly and thoroughly to create an effective waterproof barrier.
Additionally, it is worth noting that RedGard should not be used in combination with certain other materials. For example, it is recommended to use a modified thinset over RedGard, and some products, such as Schluter, have specific requirements. It is also important to avoid using tile adhesive or mastic over RedGard, as it will not cure properly.
Overall, RedGard can be an effective solution for waterproofing a cement shower pan when used correctly and in conjunction with compatible materials. It offers a convenient method to achieve a waterproof shower assembly before installing tiles.
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RedGard can be used on the final mortar bed
RedGard is a liquid waterproofing membrane that is highly beneficial in stone and tile applications. It is an excellent product for shower pans, as it is specified for interior and exterior use by the Tile Council of America.
However, there are some concerns associated with applying RedGard over a mortar bed. One key consideration is the creation of a "moisture sandwich". If a vinyl liner or waterproof membrane is already installed at the bottom of the mortar bed, adding RedGard on top can trap moisture between the two layers. This can cause deterioration of the mortar bed over time. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the drain area and weep holes are properly protected and unobstructed to allow for proper drainage.
Another factor to consider is the drying time of the mortar bed. It is crucial to allow the mortar bed to dry fully before applying RedGard. Additionally, the RedGard should be cured before tiling over it to ensure the longevity of the project.
While RedGard can provide benefits when used on the final mortar bed, it is important to carefully consider the specific project requirements and potential challenges to determine if it is the most suitable solution.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use RedGard over a cement shower pan. However, it is recommended that you only apply RedGard to the walls and not the floor.
No, it can be stopped 2 inches above the showerhead as water will not reach that high.
RedGard is an excellent product for waterproofing showers. It can be used as an additional waterproofing barrier to protect against leaks and water infiltration. It also helps prevent mould and mildew growth by reducing water absorption into the mortar bed.














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