When it comes to waterproofing showers, bathrooms, and other wet areas, Laticrete 9235 and HYDRO BAN are two of the most popular and effective waterproofing membranes on the market. But which one should you choose for your project?
Here is an in-depth comparison of Laticrete 9235 vs. HYDRO BAN waterproofing membranes, including the key features, pros, cons, and factors to consider when deciding between these two excellent products.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Laticrete 9235 | HYDRO BAN |
| Application Method | Brush, roller, spray | Brush, roller, trowel, spray |
| Dry Film Thickness | 30-40 mils | 30 mils |
| Cure Time | 2-3 hours per coat | 1-3 hours per coat |
| Working Time | 20-30 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Crack Isolation | 1/8″ | 1/8” |
| Substrates | Cement boards, concrete, metals, plastics, wood | Concrete, metals, tile, glass, wood |
| Interior/Exterior | Both | Both |
| Freeze-Thaw Stability | Up to 5 cycles at 0°F | Up to 3 cycles at 0°F |
| Hydrostatic Pressure Resist | 7 psi | Over 700 psi |
| VOC/Low Emitting | VOC compliant | Greenguard Gold certified |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
| Price | $165 per gallon | $115 per gallon |
What Is Laticrete 9235?
Laticrete 9235 is a thin, fluid-applied waterproofing and anti-fracture membrane that forms a continuous seal across joints, corners, and cracks. It is a high performance waterproofing membrane made from a liquid latex rubber compound that dries to form a flexible, seamless waterproofing barrier.
Some of the key features and benefits of Laticrete 9235 include:
- Excellent adhesion and bonds to metal, PVC, stainless steel, ceramic tile, cement backer boards, acrylic coats, concrete, wood, and more
- Creates a seamless, elastomeric waterproofing membrane with crack isolation up to 1/8”
- Effective for interior and exterior applications, including shower pans, stalls, tub surrounds, and continuous water immersion service
- Single component – no mixing required
- Thin application of only 2 coats at a total thickness of 30-40 mils
- Fast drying – can be flood tested in 2 hours
- Can be applied in temperatures as low as 40°F
- Approved for use under thin-set and thick mortar beds
- Safe for use with green, sustainable building materials
- 10-year product warranty available
Overall, Laticrete 9235 provides a durable, flexible, and easy to install waterproofing solution for a variety of applications. The thin application saves time and labor costs.
What Is HYDRO BAN?
HYDRO BAN is a fluid-applied, thin waterproofing membrane and vapor barrier made by Laticrete. It is composed of a water-based polymer that forms a seamless, flexible membrane that bonds to a wide variety of substrates.
Key features and benefits of HYDRO BAN include:
- Excellent adhesion and bonds to concrete, cement boards, metal, glass, ceramic tile, and wood
- Creates a continuous waterproofing barrier with crack isolation up to 1/8″
- Safe for interior and exterior applications, including showers, fountains, steam rooms, balconies, facades, and more
- Single component formula – no mixing required
- Thin application of 2 coats at 30 mils total thickness
- Fast drying time – can be flood tested in 2 hours
- Can be applied at temperatures as low as 40°F
- Extra heavy duty waterproofing – tested to over 700 psi of hydrostatic pressure
- Approved for use under thin-set and mortar beds
- Certified as a low VOC emitting material for green building
- 10-year product warranty available
The key advantage of HYDRO BAN is the extra heavy duty waterproofing protection it provides, making it ideal for applications that require a robust vapor barrier and waterproof membrane.
Laticrete 9235 And HYDRO BAN Comparison
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Laticrete 9235 and HYDRO BAN, let’s directly compare the two to see how they stack up against each other:
Application Method
- Laticrete 9235 – Applied with a paint brush or roller in a thin, fluid coat.
- HYDRO BAN – Brush, roller, or trowel applied. Can be spray applied with proper equipment.
Dry Film Thickness
- Laticrete 9235 – 30-40 mils total over 2 coats
- HYDRO BAN – 30 mils over 2 coats
Curing Time
- Laticrete 9235 – Dries in 2-3 hours per coat. Flood test in 2 hours.
- HYDRO BAN – Dries in 1-3 hours per coat. Flood test in 2 hours.
Working Time
- Laticrete 9235 – 20-30 minute working time after mixing.
- HYDRO BAN – 15 minute working time.
Crack Isolation
- Laticrete 9235 – Up to 1/8″ crack isolation.
- HYDRO BAN – Up to 1/8” crack isolation.
Suitable Substrates
- Laticrete 9235 bonds to cement boards, concrete, masonry, wood, metal, PVC, acrylics, and more.
- HYDRO BAN bonds to concrete, cement board, masonry, ceramic tile, glass, metal, wood, and more.
Interior vs. Exterior Use
- Laticrete 9235 can be used for interior and exterior applications.
- HYDRO BAN can be used for interior and exterior applications.
Freeze-Thaw Stability
- Laticrete 9235 is freeze-thaw stable for up to 5 cycles at 0°F.
- HYDRO BAN is freeze-thaw stable up to 3 cycles at 0°F.
Hydrostatic Pressure Resistance
- Laticrete 9235 resists hydrostatic pressure up to 7 psi.
- HYDRO BAN resists hydrostatic pressure over 700 psi – much higher water resistance.
VOC / Low Emitting
- Laticrete 9235 is VOC compliant – 105 g/L.
- HYDRO BAN is Greenguard Gold certified for low VOC emissions.
Warranty
- 10 year product warranty available for both Laticrete 9235 and HYDRO BAN.
Price
- Laticrete 9235 costs approximately $165 per gallon.
- HYDRO BAN costs approximately $115 per gallon.
So in summary, HYDRO BAN has greater hydrostatic pressure resistance and is a bit more affordably priced, while Laticrete 9235 has a longer working time, higher freeze-thaw stability, and can be spray applied to potentially save time and labor costs. Both offer excellent thin film waterproofing with warranted performance.
Laticrete 9235 Or HYDRO BAN Waterproofing: Which Is Better?
Based on this comparison, which waterproofing membrane is the best choice? Here are some key factors to consider when deciding between Laticrete 9235 and HYDRO BAN:
- Water Exposure Level
For high water exposure areas with direct water contact or high hydrostatic pressure, HYDRO BAN is the better choice given its incredibly high 700+ psi water resistance. For lower-pressure water exposure like showers and tub surrounds, either membrane will work well.
- Crack Isolation Needs
Both membranes provide effective crack isolation up to 1/8”. If you only need basic thin crack isolation, 9235 and HYDRO BAN are equal. For projects with greater movement, consider a thicker crack isolation membrane.
- Environmental Factors
In hot or cold climates, Laticrete 9235 may be a better choice given its slightly wider application temperature range and higher freeze-thaw stability. HYDRO BAN can still be used in many exterior applications but may need extra care.
- Substrate Type
Check that the membrane is approved and warranted for your specific substrate. In general, both bond well to the most common materials.
- Application Method
If spray applying to save time, Laticrete 9235 is the only choice. For roller, brush, or trowel application, both work well.
- Cost
If budget is a concern, the lower cost of HYDRO BAN may make it more appealing, though the cost per square foot is still low for both options.
- Project Size
For larger commercial projects, HYDRO BAN comes in 5 gallon pails to help speed up application. Laticrete 9235 is sold in 1 gallon containers.
- Warranty Requirements
To get the 10 year product warranty, approved installers and methods must be used for both membranes. Ensure the warranty meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Laticrete HYDRO BAN is a thin, fluid-applied waterproofing and vapor barrier membrane designed for a wide variety of applications including:
1. Showers, tub surrounds, and bathrooms
2. Swimming pools, fountains, and water features
3. Balconies, terraces, plazas, and facades
4. Steam rooms and humid environments
5. Between concrete slabs and tile or stone finishes
6. Exterior facade waterproofing
It bonds directly to concrete, cement board, masonry, and other common building materials to create a seamless, moisture-proof barrier.
The cure time for Laticrete 9235 is 2-3 hours per coat at 70°F and 50% relative humidity. Full water immersion service is allowed after 14 days. It achieves maximum strength and waterproofing ability in 7 days after final cure. Cooler temperatures or high humidity can extend the cure time.
One gallon of HYDRO BAN will cover approximately 50 square feet per coat when applied with a roller or brush at 30 mils thick per coat. Two coats are recommended, so a gallon provides 25 square feet of finished coverage. If spray applying, coverage increases to approximately 100 square feet per gallon per coat.
Yes, HYDRO BAN is an excellent professional-grade waterproofing membrane that provides a durable, seamless moisture barrier and vapor barrier for tile and stone installations. Key benefits include:
1. Provides over 700 psi of hydrostatic pressure resistance
2. Prevents moisture and vapor transmission
3. Bonds directly to substrates without a primer
4. Applies easily with brush, roller, or spray equipment
5. Fast drying time
6. Can be used for interior and exterior applications
7. 10 year product warranty available
With proper installation, HYDRO BAN is an effective, reliable waterproofing solution for wet areas, high moisture environments, and demanding waterproofing projects. Its high-performance formulation offers robust protection against leaks and moisture damage.
Final Thoughts
Overall, while both Laticrete 9235 and HYDRO BAN are excellent thin waterproofing membranes, HYDRO BAN tends to provide slightly heavier-duty performance, especially in terms of water resistance.
Laticrete 9235 offers wider application options like spraying and a longer working time.
Carefully evaluate your specific project requirements and decide which strengths matter most to you. Either option will effectively waterproof and protect your installation.
