How to Waterproof RV Shower Walls? Sharing the Details Here

Securing my RV shower walls against leaks is critical to avoid issues like mold or rotten floors down the road. I want to protect my investment. In this guide, I’ll walk through popular waterproofing options to tackle this project, detail the process to apply them, and provide extra tips to maintain efficacy over time. I aim to equip readers with the knowledge to pick the best solution for their shower space and budget.

Different Things You Can Use to Waterproof Your RV Shower Walls

There are several effective solutions to waterproof your RV shower walls. Let’s discuss the benefits and considerations of popular options:

Sealant and Caulks

Sealants and caulks are a good option for waterproofing RV shower walls. Silicone sealant can be used for its flexibility, water resistance, and long-lasting abilities. It is great for sealing up seams, joints, corners, and gaps where water could penetrate. Polyurethane caulk is another waterproof choice that is also flexible with good adhesion abilities. This makes it useful for filling and sealing any cracks or gaps in the shower walls. Using quality sealants and caulks allows you to waterproof by sealing up potential problem areas.

Some benefits are –

Inexpensive – caulks cost less than full wall treatments

Easy application – smooth on with basic tools in under an hour

Good for minor sealing – fills cracks and gaps to direct water away

However, caulk alone does not offer comprehensive protection for whole shower walls. It is more of a supplemental solution.

Tiles

Installing tiles is a protective surface layer that can waterproof your RV shower. Ceramic, porcelain or stone tiles have inherently water-resistant properties. When installed properly with the right waterproof grout, they create a water barrier to protect shower walls underneath. Often a water-resistant backerboard will need to be applied first to provide support for the tile and an additional waterproof base. The tiles protect the walls themselves while the grout and backerboard seal up seams and prevent moisture penetration.

 Benefits include:

Attractive finish – range of styles like subway tile, mosaics, etc.

Customizable patterns – get creative with layouts and designs

Durable surface – ceramic and porcelain tiles stand up well to water

Low maintenance – simple to keep clean

However,  RV movements may cause grout and tile cracking over time. Professional installation is also advised.

Wet Wall Panels

For a convenient waterproof covering, prefabricated wet wall panels can be installed over existing shower walls. They come in PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or other waterproof composite materials with water-tight joints integrated into the panels. 

Specialized acrylic or polymer panels designed for wet areas offer robust protection:

Waterproof rated – impervious core prevents water intrusion

Quick DIY install – lightweight panels adhere directly to walls

Seamless and jointless – no grout lines or gaps for leaks

Affordable option – competitive cost versus tile

But may not withstand extreme temperature changes as well as other materials.

Cement Board

The cement board provides a waterproof base layer prior to adding finishes like tile. It is a stable cement and fiberglass composite panel that can stand up to a wet environment. 

Cement board backer builds an extremely water-resistant underlayer:

Superior moisture protection – waterproof core stops leaks

Tough and durable – retains integrity despite vibration or movement

Ideal backing for tile – prevents cracks in tile or grout Better insulates walls

Heavier to install – may require additional wall support

An extra step that requires a finished wall surface on top.

Wetroom Tanking Kit

For a reliable tanked waterproofing system, a full wetroom kit creates multiple water barrier layers. It comes with drainage channels, waterproof adhesive membranes, boards, and all components needed to seal up an RV wetroom shower. 

Benefits include –

Fully waterproof barrier – impenetrable to water under pressure

Bonds to many surfaces – ceilings, floors, complicated layouts

Customizable tanking options – sheets, compounds, paint-on solutions

Expensive – highest initial cost option

Long cure times – installations can take 2-3 days

This professional-grade solution requires expertise to install correctly.

Procedure for Waterproofing Your RV Shower Walls

Properly waterproofing your RV shower walls is crucial to prevent leaks, mold growth, and structural damage. Follow these procedures carefully depending on your chosen waterproofing method. Always start with clean, dry walls for good results.

Sealant and Caulks

Applying waterproof silicone or polyurethane caulks and sealants is an effective RV shower waterproofing method. Start by thoroughly cleaning the shower wall surfaces and removing any loose materials or debris. 

Step 1

Identify all seams, gaps, joints, corners, and any cracks in the walls that could allow water intrusion. Carefully inspect where walls meet, wall connections, plumbing openings and fixtures, window and door frames, and along textured areas. Check for cracks wider than 1/8 inch.

Step 2 

Carefully fill and seal these areas with a continuous smooth bead of your chosen sealant. For best results, use a silicone or polyurethane caulk designed for showers and wet areas. Apply enough sealant to fully pack the gaps, smoothing the bead with a plastic spreader or finger.

Step 3

Use enough sealant to fully pack the gaps. For cracks, ensure the sealant penetrates deeper than the surface. Caulk should fill joints and seams fully without air pockets. Follow manufacturer recommendations for application thickness.

Step 4

Allow proper cure time based on product instructions before using the shower, typically 24-48 hours. The sealant will skin over within minutes but needs longer to fully set up waterproof abilities. Setting time allows sealants to form a water-tight barrier.

Step 5

The sealed gaps, joints, and seams will prevent moisture penetration through the walls once fully cured. Check for any cracks in the caulk seal after a few weeks and re-apply if needed. Properly applied sealants keep water out of the wall interior.

Tiles

Tiling RV shower walls takes a multi-step installation process for best waterproofing capabilities. 

• Install cement backer board over the wall framing following manufacturer guidelines for spacing and fasteners.
• Lay out the tile pattern and make any necessary cuts.
• Apply a thinset mortar suitable for wet area tile installation.
• Press tiles into the thinset and use spacers to achieve even grout line spacing.
• Allow tiles to be set according to thinset guidelines before grouting.
• Apply waterproof epoxy grout between tile seams.
• Clean off excess grout and allow full cure time before use.

Wet Wall Panels

Prefabricated wet wall panels make waterproofing straightforward by adhering them to existing RV walls.

1. Take measurements and cut panels to the size needed to cover all wall surrounding areas.
2. Thoroughly clean and dry the installation area.
3. Apply adhesive evenly across the entire backside of the panels.
4. Carefully mount panels directly onto walls, pressing firmly across all areas.
5. Use a plastic smoother to flatten panels and remove any air bubbles or gaps.
6. Apply a continuous bead of bathroom-rated caulk to seal all seams between panels.
7. Allow the caulk to fully cure based on manufacturer directions before use.

Cement Board

Installing cement board makes RV walls ready for waterproof finishes. Measure and cut boards to fit wall framing. 

1. Measure and cut cement board sheets to fit the wall framing.
2. Install boards over framing with proper cement board screws and spacing.
3. Embed alkaline-resistant tape over seams into a layer of mortar.
4. Feather out mortar to create a smooth transition once dry.
5. Seal gaps around fixtures or accessories with thinset mortar.
6. Allow mortar mudding to fully cure before applying finishes.

Wetroom Tanking Kits

Wetroom tanking kits require methodical installation but result in reliable waterproofing. Follow all kit directions precisely, including preparing surfaces.

Prime the surface: Apply a primer coat to the shower floor and walls using a brush.

Apply tanking tape: Use tanking tape to seal all the joints, corners, and around the drain. Overlap the tape strips to ensure complete coverage.

Apply the tanking membrane: Paint two coats of the liquid tanking membrane onto the entire shower surface, including the floor, walls, and around the drain. Apply each coat in perpendicular directions (horizontal and vertical) for better coverage and thickness.

Additional Tips and Maintenance

Waterproofing your RV shower walls does not have to be difficult or expensive. With the right materials and techniques, you can save thousands in potential water damage costs while still enjoying the convenience of your camper’s shower.

• Check walls regularly for leaks, cracks, and damage – address them promptly to prevent bigger issues
• Use non-abrasive cleaners – avoid harsh chemicals that degrade waterproof coatings
• Improve ventilation – prevent moisture buildup that promotes mold or mildew
• Reapply protective treatments annually – maintain effective waterproofing over time
• Get professional repairs when needed – some leakage issues require specialty expertise

In Closing,

properly shielding RV shower walls preserve their integrity for years of continued use. I presented solutions ranging from affordable sealants to robust wetroom barrier kits based on needs and skill level. By regularly checking for damage, maintaining treatments, and getting professional help when required, readers can succeed in waterproofing their RV showers.