Why We Always Use RedGard Behind Kitchen Backsplashes — Even When Others Say You Don’t Need To

RedGard is not just for Bathrooms and Showers! Golden, CO condo refinish / remodel.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen in Park County, Summit County, Boulder County, Jefferson County, or Denver County, there’s a detail most homeowners (and even some contractors) overlook: protecting the wall behind the backsplash.

At Park County Construction, we believe in doing it right the first time — and that means RedGard every time.

The real reason we RedGard

Ask most general contractors, tile installers, or handymen, and you’ll hear: "You don’t really need it." We disagree.

RedGard isn’t just for showers or wet areas. It’s a liquid waterproofing membrane that creates a clean, slightly rough surface — perfect for helping thinset stick, especially when you’re adding a backsplash to an existing kitchen.

Why it matters for older kitchens

When a backsplash is added later (not part of a full gut remodel), walls are often painted with semi-gloss. While semi-gloss paint is great for resisting stains and splashes, it also collects oils and residue over time. Unless you scrub that wall like crazy, you’re setting yourself up for long-term adhesion problems.

RedGard solves this by sealing over the paint and creating a reliable bonding surface.

Not all thinsets — or installers — are equal

We don’t use "tile glue" shortcuts. We use proper thinset, mixed right: stir for five minutes, let it slake (rest) for ten, then remix. If your tile installer skips this, they might be cutting corners elsewhere, too.

Moisture: the silent troublemaker

Most people think tile and grout are completely waterproof — they’re not. Water from the sink, a spilled drink, or even steam can seep through, eventually causing mold and rot behind the wall.

RedGard acts as an extra barrier, stopping moisture before it ever becomes a problem.

"Do I really need it?"

Most subs will say no. We say: "What does it hurt to have it?"

For a minimal cost, you gain peace of mind, longer-lasting tile work, and less chance of hidden damage in the future. In mountain homes especially — where maintenance can be more challenging — this extra step is worth every penny.

Why RedGard?

RedGard is a liquid waterproofing and crack prevention membrane. When applied behind a kitchen backsplash,

it provides a clean, slightly rough surface that helps the thinset bond securely. This is especially important when:

• The backsplash is an add-on (not part of a brand-new kitchen): RedGard helps the thinset adhere better to old surfaces.

• The wall is painted with semi-gloss paint: Kitchens and bathrooms are often painted with semi-gloss for easier cleaning, but that paint builds up oils over time. RedGard covers it and prevents future bonding issues.

Our approach

In Park County and throughout Colorado’s Front Range, too many remodels are done just to "look good for now." We prefer building to last.

If you’re investing in your kitchen, choose a contractor who thinks beyond today’s photo finish. Ask them about prep, ask them about thinset, and definitely ask them if they use RedGard.