Professional Wall Preparation for Tiling in Worthing

Plastered walls are common in both older and modern homes, but not all plastered surfaces are immediately suitable for tiling.

Fresh plaster must be:

• Fully dry (usually 2–4 weeks depending on conditions)

• Free from dust and contamination

• Lightly keyed or primed to aid adhesion

Highly polished or dusty plaster can prevent tile adhesive from bonding correctly. Applying the correct primer or bonding agent is essential to create a secure surface.

Dot and dab plasterboard is widely used in modern construction, but it requires careful consideration before tiling.

Because boards are fixed using adhesive dabs, voids can exist behind the wall. These voids can cause movement if heavy tiles are applied without proper support.

Best practice includes:

• Checking for movement or hollow areas

• Avoiding heavy tiles unless the wall is reinforced

• Using appropriate tile adhesives designed for plasterboard

In some cases, upgrading to a tile backer board is the safest option.

Stud walls are common in bathrooms, en-suites and new builds, but they must be prepared correctly to handle the weight of tiles.

Key preparation steps include:

• Ensuring studs are spaced correctly

• Adding noggins or reinforcements where required

• Installing cement-based tile backer boards rather than standard plasterboard

This creates a rigid, moisture-resistant surface that prevents flexing and cracking over time.

In wet areas such as showers, wet rooms and around baths, waterproofing is essential. Tiling alone is not waterproof — the protection comes from what’s behind it.

A professional tanking system typically includes:

• Waterproof primer

• Liquid or sheet membrane

• Reinforced corners and joints

This creates a sealed barrier that protects the structure beneath the tiles and helps prevent long-term water damage.