Top 7 Waterproofing Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands

Waterproofing is one of those things that you don’t think about—until there’s a problem. A slow leak behind your shower wall, a puddle forming under your planter box, or a mysterious stain on your ceiling can all trace back to one simple truth: something wasn’t waterproofed right. At Infinity Shower Pans, we’ve seen the aftermath of a lot of waterproofing gone wrong—and we want to help you avoid those headaches. Here are the top seven waterproofing mistakes we see way too often.

1. Skipping the Waterproofing Altogether

It might sound crazy, but some builders and DIYers just skip waterproofing entirely—especially in bathrooms. Relying solely on tile, grout, or sealants is a big mistake. None of those materials are waterproof by themselves. Waterproofing is a system, and when it's not part of the plan, water will find a way in.

2. Using the Wrong Products for the Job

Not all waterproofing materials are created equal. A product that works for a planter wall isn’t necessarily suitable for a flat roof. We’ve seen everything from paint-on sealers used under tile to plastic liners stuffed under a deck. Using the wrong material can mean premature failure, leaks, and expensive repairs. Materials matter—and so does the experience of the person applying them.

3. Poor Shower Pan Installation

The shower pan is the most overlooked part of a bathroom remodel—and it’s also the part most likely to fail if installed improperly. Hot mop installations, when done right, are one of the most reliable methods out there. But we've seen far too many pans without the proper slope, missing flood tests, or with gaps in the asphalt. Water always finds the weakest spot, and in a bad pan, there are a lot of them.

4. Ignoring Drain Details

That tiny detail around your drain can make or break your waterproofing system. One of the most common mistakes? Not properly integrating the waterproofing membrane with the shower drain. Whether it’s a hot mop or torch down system, the drain should be fully embedded and sealed with no wiggle room. If it’s not, expect leaks—and fast.

5. Not Waterproofing Horizontal Surfaces Properly

Flat surfaces like balconies, decks, and flat roofs are water magnets. If they’re not waterproofed with the right technique—think torch down, hot mop, or deck coatings—you’re asking for trouble. Even small dips or low spots can collect water and let it soak in over time. Without the right prep, reinforcement, and materials, these surfaces are guaranteed to fail.

6. Skipping Routine Maintenance

Even the best waterproofing systems need occasional check-ups. Caulking breaks down, sealants wear thin, and surfaces get damaged from daily wear and tear. Regular maintenance can help spot problems before they escalate. That includes checking for soft spots, cracks, discoloration, or unusual smells that might point to moisture buildup.

7. Hiring the Wrong Contractor

We get it—everyone wants to save money. But hiring a contractor who doesn’t specialize in waterproofing (or worse, cuts corners) can cost you so much more in the long run. Waterproofing is both a science and an art. It requires specific tools, materials, and methods. When it's rushed or done by someone without proper experience, it’s almost always going to fail eventually.

Don’t Let Water Win

Water is sneaky, persistent, and damaging—but with the right waterproofing, it doesn’t stand a chance. Avoiding these seven mistakes can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and keep your home safe, dry, and worry-free.

Whether you're remodeling a shower, sealing a deck, or dealing with a leaky roof, Infinity Shower Pans has your back. We take pride in doing things the right way, the first time. Give us a call today at and let’s talk about protecting your home from the ground up.