GLOSSARY · ADELAIDE
Waterproofing membrane
Plain English
Liquid-applied or sheet membrane installed before tiling in wet areas, designed to stop water reaching the substrate.
All Australian wet areas built after 1988 require a continuous waterproofing membrane under tiles. The membrane goes up the walls in shower zones and across the entire floor.
Failed waterproofing is the most common cause of sub-floor moisture damage in Adelaide homes. By the time visible damage appears (rotten skirting in the room behind, soft floors, sub-floor mould), the leak has often been active for months or years.
Inspectors cannot see the membrane directly (it's under the tiles), so they look for indicators: visible water staining, sub-floor moisture, soft floors near showers, water marks on adjacent walls.
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