Hang Drywall Around a Bathtub
The final preparation of a bathtub enclosure for tile, paint or other wall finish is the installation of water-resistant drywall, typically referred to as "green board." Water-resistant drywall has an identical gypsum core composition as traditional drywall, except it has a thin wax coating on the surface paper to inhibit water penetration. Green board installs in the same way as standard drywall, and the easy procedure will prepare your bathtub walls for their final finish material.
Instructions
1. Measure the horizontal dimension of the bathtub's rear wall.
2. Cut a length of water-resistant drywall according to the measurements from step 1 using a utility knife or drywall saw.
3. Position the cut piece of water-resistant drywall horizontally against the bathtub's rear wall and rest its bottom edge on the lip of the bathtub ledge. Make certain the sheet is held level, then secure the piece to the wall framing using drywall screws typically spaced approximately 8 inches apart and 2 inches inside the drywall edges.
4. Repeat Step 3 for the next piece of water-resistant drywall. This sheet should be laid above the previously installed sheet and should fit tightly against the ceiling.
5. Begin the bathtub's drain end wall installation at the same level at the rear wall, measuring the length of drywall to be cut to the appropriate wall stud center line. Typically, the water-resistant drywall is extended 4 to 6 inches beyond the front vertical edge of the bathtub, where it will meet the standard-type drywall covering the balance of the bathroom walls.
6. Measure the locations of the tub faucet and valve locations, then transfer this layout to the water-resistant drywall piece cut in Step 5. Cut out the holes necessary using a utility knife or drywall jab saw.
7. Place the side wall water-resistant drywall piece into position, against the wall framing that was placed over the valves and faucet. Level the piece and secure it in place using drywall screws.
8. Repeat Step 3 for the next piece of water-resistant drywall above the previously installed sheet. Again, this second sheet will reach the ceiling level and the width should be cut to fit tightly against the ceiling surface.
9. Repeat Step 5 for the final wall opposite the drain end of the bathtub, cutting the water-resistant drywall to the proper length, then installing with drywall screws.
10. Tape and sand all of the drywall joints and screws prior to applying the planned wall finish.
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