Ultimate Guide to DIY Bathroom Remodel with Hydroblok

Over the past year, we gutted our entire master bathroom and closets down to the studs, redesigned the space and built it back piece by piece with the Hydroblok 100% waterproof system. It is perfect for DIY Bathroom Remodels.

Introduction

Thinking of remodeling your bathroom but unsure about tackling the shower area? The Hydroblok system is a 100% waterproof solution for bathrooms and showers that promises durability, strength, and ease of installation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key components, step-by-step installation process, and the pros and cons of using the Hydroblok system for your DIY bathroom remodel.

Hydroblok System Components

1. Fiberglass Mesh: Provides reinforcement with excellent tensile and flexural strength.
2. Gray Polymer-Modified Cementitious Coating: Custom-engineered to enhance waterproof characteristics and panel strength.
3. Inner Green Core: Made of closed-cell XPS foam, free of harmful HCFCs, ensuring no ozone depletion potential.

5 Main parts of the system 

1. The wall boards come in a variety of dimensions and thicknesses. I used a standard ½” thick panel to match the surrounding drywall. The foam boards can be easily cut with a utility knife, hand saw or circular saw. Cutting openings for the mixing valve, tub spout and shower head was also very easy.
2. The floor pan and curb look similar to the wall panels, but they seem to be made of a denser XPS foam core. This is probably to hold the weight of a user.  I used a miter saw and table saw to cut this curb down to size instead of a utility knife, to get cleaner and more accurate edges. 
3. Another component of the systems is a joint sealant that holds the wall and floor panels together. I’d recommend wearing gloves when handling this material. It is very difficult to wash off your skin. The sealant fits inside a durable aluminum sausage gun that comes with disposable plastic tips. 
4. Hydroblok also sells solid, waterproof niches that are extremely convenient to install. They fit into a standard 16” on center stud bay.
5. All these components are secured to the studs in your walls with galvanized, rust-proof washers and screws.

Easy installation

I was able to install the shower pan and the wall panels in the shower and around the tub in a single weekend. I first cut down the shower pan to size and then cut a lip around the edge with a circular saw and then used a utility knife to cut a slit in the foam horizontally. Mortar was applied to the underside of the shower pan to fix it to the substrate.

I carried the wall panels in the framed out space and placed them on the shower pan and installed the galvanized, rust-proof washers every 12 inches by simply pressing them into the XPS wallboards. I used Hydroblok’s rust-free screws to secure every single washer and attach the wallboards to the wood studs. Next, I applied a bead of caulk to the top edge of the wallboard.

Now for the messiest part of the install; covering all the screws, washers and seams with caulk. Even though Hydroblok provided flat and corner putty knives, I found it pretty difficult to spread the caulk evenly and feather it out. I needed to install an additional mesh tape on the bottom seam at the intersection of the shower pan and wall board.

Pros of the Hydroblok System

The Hydroblok system offers several advantages that make it a top choice for DIYers and contractors alike:

1. Comprehensive Components: Hydroblok provides all necessary components for a successful bathroom remodel, including shower pans, wallboards, and various accessories.
2. Versatility: Wallboards are available in multiple sizes and thicknesses, and different types of shower pans, drains, curbs, niches, etc., cater to diverse project requirements.
3. High Compression Strength: Despite being made of foam, Hydroblok’s boards exhibit impressive compression strength due to the combination of cement and fiberglass mesh.
4. Warranty and Eco-Friendly: The joint sealant comes with a 25-year warranty, and the closed-cell XPS foam is environmentally friendly, free of harmful chemicals.
5. Fire-Rated and Mold-Resistant: Hydroblok’s seamless surface is fire-rated and resistant to mold, moisture, and mildew, ensuring long-lasting durability.
6. Quick Installation: The joint sealant dries within 30 minutes, allowing you to proceed with thinset and tile application promptly.

Cons of the Hydroblok System

While the Hydroblok system has numerous benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

1. Joint Sealant Application: Some users may find the application process of the joint sealant cumbersome, preferring a cartridge option for smoother application.
2. Drain Installation: The drain installation might require extra effort and time to ensure proper sealing and alignment.

Conclusion

The Hydroblok system offers a game-changing solution for DIY bathroom remodels, providing unmatched waterproofing, durability, and ease of installation. Although it may entail a higher initial investment, the long-term benefits and peace of mind make it a worthwhile choice. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, using the Hydroblok system will undoubtedly elevate your bathroom remodeling experience and yield impressive results.

Link to Hydroblok’s website:

https://www.hydroblok.com