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 choice. In areas like bathrooms, and particularly around the tub or shower, a more water-resistant product should be used.
Why Drywall Shouldn't Get Wet
Drywall is made up of a gypsum-based core surrounded my thick paper. This paper adds rigidity by creating a stress-skin. However, this paper readily soaks up any water and wicks it to the gypsum core. Gypsum disintegrates in water. So if any water from your shower gets into drywall, you'll quickly have a mess on your hands.
For places that could get a little water splashed on them, a primer and a couple coats of paint are enough to protect drywall. However, in bathrooms, steam can get behind walls easily and compromise your wallboard.
What Wallboard Should I Use?
The wallboard you choose for your bathtub or shower depends on the look you want in the end. Most showers have some sort of surround, like tile or vinyl. These are traditional, but not necessary if you use the right product.
For a tile surround, cement board is ideal. Not only is cement board waterproof, but it's also the best thing for the thinset mortar used in tile installation to stick to. It has a rough surface that allows the thinset to grab and hold. Traditional cement board is very heavy, but there are lightweight versions available that make installing on walls easier.
For vinyl surrounds or painted walls, there are waterproof products similar to drywall that are best to use. One such product is DragonBoard, a magnesium-based product with fiber reinforcement. The manufacturers claim that it can be submerged in water and maintain its integrity. Unlike cement board, these products have a smooth, paintable surface.
Waterproof Wallboard Tips
When installing waterproof wallboard, use corrosion-resistant fasteners, like hot dipped galvanized nails or screws. Also, leave a gap between your wallboard and the top of your tub or wash basin that you can fill with silicone caulk. This will prevent water from getting behind your tile or vinyl surround.
Follow manufacturers' instructions when it comes to vapor barriers. Cement board is vapor-permeable, and a vapor barrier could trap moisture that would normally wick away.
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