Whether you’re tackling a bathroom refurb or working on a new build housing development, waterproofing is a critical step in ensuring long-lasting, high-quality tiling installations in wet areas.
That’s where BAL Waterproof 1C comes in – the fastest, easiest, one-coat ready-mixed waterproofing solution on the market, now EAD-certified and fully compliant with NHBC’s new tanking requirements.
Why Waterproofing Matters
Tiles may be waterproof, but adhesives and grouts aren’t. Without proper waterproofing, moisture can seep through to the substrate, leading to black mould, unpleasant odours, and even complete installation failure.
BAL Waterproof 1C provides a reliable barrier against water ingress, protecting both the tiled area and adjoining rooms.
Domestic Projects Made Simple
BAL Waterproof 1C is ideal for showers, bathrooms, and wet rooms in domestic refurbishments and commercial installations. It’s:
- Ready-mixed – use straight from the bucket
- One-coat application on walls
- No priming required on most substrates
- Crack bridging up to 3mm without tape
- Fast-track tiling – tile after just 2 hours
- Easy to apply with brush, roller or 4mm notched trowel
- High yield – up to 6m² coverage per unit
- Sustainable – low VOC and made with 40% recycled materials
For non-EAD installations, BAL Waterproof 1C can be applied directly to plasterboard, cement render, screeds, concrete, plywood overlays, BAL Board (smooth side), and BAL Rapid-Mat. Only porous backgrounds like plaster or cement boards require priming with BAL Primer 1C.
NHBC-Compliant Waterproofing for New Builds
From January 1st, 2025, the NHBC (National House Building Council) mandated that wet areas in new homes must be tanked using an EAD-certified system to qualify for warranty and insurance. BAL Waterproof 1C is part of an ETA-24/1129 approved system, making it fully compliant.
Where Tanking is Required:
- Showers over baths or with trays (flow rate <12L/min) – if substrate guidance recommends tanking or hasn’t passed NHBC Table 2.
- Any shower (flow rate >12L/min).
- Any wet room – fully tiled walls and floors.
EAD System Components:
To meet NHBC standards, installations must include:
- BAL Waterproof 1C Tape – for reinforcing corners and junctions
- BAL Waterproof 1C Matting – for wetroom floors and drainage channels
- BAL Universal Adhesive & Sealant – for sealing around pipework and trays
- BAL Primer 1C – for porous backgrounds
Tiles must be fixed using EAD-approved BAL adhesives, such as:
- BAL SPF S1
- BAL Flex One
- BAL Rapid XP Plus
- BAL Rapid-Flex Fibre Plus
And finished with suitable BAL grouts, including:
- BAL Micromax3 ECO
- BAL Grout Flex
Install with Confidence
BAL Waterproof 1C is backed by BAL’s market-leading 25-year guarantee, giving installers and homeowners complete peace of mind. Plus, with BAL’s nationwide technical support, free training, and on-site guidance, you’re never alone on the job.
Whether you’re waterproofing a single shower or an entire housing development, BAL Waterproof 1C delivers speed, simplicity, and certified protection.
