Moisture meters are handy, no doubt, but honestly, proper waterproofing from the start beats chasing leaks later. I've seen too many showers built without proper membranes or sealants. Prevention saves more headaches (and cash) than detection ever will...
"Prevention saves more headaches (and cash) than detection ever will..."
Couldn't agree more. A moisture meter is great for troubleshooting, but honestly, nothing beats getting it right from day one. I've had clients who've skimped on waterproofing membranes to save a few bucks upfront, only to end up with costly repairs and water damage down the line. Also, don't underestimate proper ventilation—good airflow can really help prevent mold and moisture buildup. It's all about thinking ahead and investing wisely at the start...
Haha, learned this the hard way with my old place—historic charm, historic plumbing. Couple quick tips from experience:
- Don't trust old grout alone... seriously.
- Waterproofing membranes are your friend.
- Ventilation matters more than you'd think (mold city otherwise).
Better safe than soggy, trust me.
"Ventilation matters more than you'd think (mold city otherwise)."
Couldn't agree more on this one. I tackled a similar project last year—thought I'd nailed everything until the mold crept in quietly behind the scenes. Ended up installing a stronger exhaust fan and leaving the bathroom door cracked open after showers. Made a huge difference. It's always rewarding to see someone else navigating these old-home quirks with creativity and patience... keep at it, you're doing great.
Ventilation is definitely key, especially in older homes. I'd also suggest checking your grout and caulking regularly—tiny cracks there can let moisture sneak behind tiles, causing hidden mold or leaks that you won't notice until it's a bigger problem. Learned that one the hard way myself... A quick inspection every few months and patching up any weak spots can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
