Moisture is the primary concern when using drywall as a tile backer.
Using the correct drywall in a shower is critical because of the environment's moisture. Moisture eventually rots drywall. Buying a certain type of the product and treating it in the correct way, however, ensures that it will survive for years in your shower without becoming damaged from too much water.
Regular Drywall
You could use regular drywall in a shower, however, it is not typically recommended. If you use it, then properly seal and protect it so that water doesn't reach the drywall. Measures also need to be taken to prevent condensation from reaching the drywall. If you can accomplish all that confidently, then regular drywall can be used in the shower.
Green Board
If you want to use a drywall-like product in your shower, then green board is the product to use. It is made of gypsum, the same primary ingredient in drywall, but it is specially made to serve as a mount for tile in a shower area. The difference between it and regular drywall is the inclusion of water-repelling additives that are mixed into the core and surface. While not waterproof, green board is much more resistant to moisture damage than regular drywall.
Vapor Barrier
Whatever type of drywall you use in your shower, ensure that moisture can't become trapped behind the drywall. If a vapor barrier is put in the usual location, over top of the wall studs, then moisture eventually permeates the wall and is trapped on its back side, causing mold and rot. The solution is to use a membrane vapor barrier that waterproofs the outside of the drywall as an underlayment for tile.
Cement Board
If you want to use the best possible product to build the walls around your shower, then a gypsum-based product such as drywall might not be your best option. Backer boards, however, are made from cement or cement fiber. Those materials are strong and do not suffer if exposed to the moisture that occurs in a shower.
Related posts
Drywall is the standard wallboard in most modern homes. It's lightweight and very strong when dry. However, in areas where the walls may be in constant contact with moisture, drywall is a poor cho...
Backer board is an essential part of tile showers.No matter what part of your home you are remodeling, you want to ensure that the new installations will last for years to come. With tile showers,...
Knowing the proper type of drywall to install can save you frustration and money later.Though drywall is an essential building component in most construction projects, the material has its limitat...
Sheetrock can absorb moisture, potentially leading to mold.Sheetrock is a brand of gypsum paneling created by the USG Corporation. Sheetrock gypsum panels are used for walls, and while the company...
Builders use drywall, sometimes called gypsum board, sheetrock or plasterboard, for interior wall finishing in many parts of the home including the bathroom. However, wet environments like bathroo...
