Can You Use Regular Drywall In A Shower?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Regular can be used as a base for tiles in a shower

, but only as an absolute last resort. Even in the best of scenarios, the tile and grout will eventually wear down, leaving behind a clear route for water to seep through and soak into the drywall.

Can you put waterproof membrane on drywall?


Yes

! In fact, it's advised to use this product on drywall in your bathroom before laying tile and other materials. Without a waterproof membrane like Kerdi, water and moisture can seep through grout, tile and other materials and end up damaging wood studs and subfloor.

Can you waterproof existing drywall?


Drywall can be primed and painted to be waterproof

. Although water resistant drywall — commonly referred to as greenboard or blueboard because of its color — is available at most home improvement stores, you may find yourself needing to waterproof your current drywall.

How do you waterproof bathroom drywall?

The best way to waterproof your drywall is to

use a waterproofing primer

. You can find both oil- and latex-based waterproofing primers made by most paint manufacturers. These products are created specifically to prevent mold and mildew on the surface to which they are applied.

Can I spray water on drywall?

Light Dampening. A splash of water from a

glass won't typically destroy drywall

. The same can be true of a small leak if it's caught soon enough. When this happens, immediately stop the flow of water, and proceed to dry the drywall with towels.

How do you waterproof drywall above a shower?

Prime the drywall with

oil- or shellac-based primer

. These coatings protect against moisture better than water-based primer, but they are noxious, so wear a respirator while using them. Spread the primer with a paintbrush or roller and let it dry before painting.

Is it OK to use green board in a shower?

So what does all this mean? It means “

Greenboard” can still be used in bathrooms

(and other areas), it just cannot be used as a backer for tile in a shower or tub surround. It can be used in areas not subject to direct water exposure (tub/shower surround), and areas of noncontinuous high humidity (bathrooms).

Is drywall OK for shower ceiling?


Drywall can be used above the non-tub and shower

areas of your bathroom. However, some areas of your bathroom that are exposed to water and moisture such as the expanse just above the shower will necessitate the use of greenboard or drywall that is properly moisture resistant.

Does bathroom ceiling need green board?

Greenboard weakens more than standard drywall does when it gets completely saturated. Since bathroom ceilings tend to collect a great deal of moisture this is a common weak point for the material.

Does kilz waterproof drywall?

KILZ Complete® is an oil-based primer, sealer and stainblocker ideal for blocking stains, priming, and sealing almost all interior and exterior surfaces. KILZ Complete® dries quickly and provides a mildew resistant coating. Primer is not waterproof.

No paint is waterproof

.

Will wet drywall cause mold?

While drywall is made of some pretty sturdy stuff, it can sustain damage when exposed to water for too long. If moisture damage isn't addressed swiftly, the structural integrity of the drywall becomes compromised, causing it to

become soft, weak and susceptible to mold growth

.

Does water damaged drywall need to be replaced?

When this happens you may ask yourself, “Does water damaged drywall need to be replaced?” But more often than not,

the water damaged drywall is going to have to be replaced

. Wet drywall will lose its structural integrity and if left alone for long enough will develop mold spores, between the insulation and the drywall.

Does drywall need to be replaced if it gets wet?

While drywall isn't the most resistant to water, it can still withstand small amounts of moisture. For example, if you spill a glass of water on your drywall,

you probably don't need a replacement

. However, you should deal with any spills right away.

Do I need to waterproof shower ceiling?

While

not required

for most installations, waterproofing the shower ceiling helps protect a home and its occupants from moisture-related mold, mildew, and home deterioration. Waterproofing is highly recommended for tile installations and required for steam showers and rooms.

What do I put on the wall above the shower?

  1. Tile It Up. Add a few rows of decorative tile above the surround to extend it all the way to the ceiling. …
  2. Waterproof Art. …
  3. Touch of Paint. …
  4. Simple Shelves. …
  5. Raise a Panel.

What should I put around my shower walls?


Acrylic

is the best system to use for shower walls because it is the safest, least high maintenance, and easy to install, meaning your shower could be done in as little as one day. Acrylic is one of the most durable materials used in the shower construction industry, and for good reason.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.