Bathroom drywall woes prove costly for residents

Despite the numerous ways our homes reflect a standard of quality, the original drywall used in the bathrooms of many neighborhood homes is not waterproof and can turn homeowners into home-moaners. Some community residents have already needed to address the issue. For others, a raised awareness of the potential problem could provide valuable time to better prepare for costly and necessary repairs, hopefully before the drywall problem escalates into extended water damage first to subflooring and then to ceilings below.

Original Design and Build

The builder used regular drywall in the bathrooms in many Kentlands homes instead of waterproof drywall. This is especially problematic in areas around tubs, sinks, or behind the ceramic wall tile in showers. The drywall that most people are familiar with is made with a gypsum-based core that is very strong when it is dry, according to the Ask the Builder blog. Drywall panels have a thick paper wrapping that protects the gypsum core, however, the paper readily absorbs water and can transmit it to the gypsum inside of the drywall or sheetrock panel. When this happens, the panel loses its rigidity and either falls apart or becomes very mushy.

This has been the case in several neighborhood homes. Unsuspecting homeowners do not realize they have problematic drywall in their bathrooms until water begins to leak down through lower floor ceilings, or wall tiles around tubs and showers feel loose when tapped. Another warning sign is cracked grout as the tiles shift once the drywall behind begins to fail. Simply patching the grout will not correct the damage behind the tile that has already occurred.

Drywall Materials

According to contractors who work in the neighborhood and digital resources such as Ask the Builder, Reliable Remodeler, Bob Vila's Community Forum, and other chat and YouTube sites, there are better options available; however, it is important to note that some products are water resistant and some are waterproof. The water resistant products will not suffice when water is in direct contact with the wall area, such as in showers.

Water resistant drywall has been around for more than 25 years. Many people recognize it from the green paper facing. Often referred to as green board, this product is water resistant, but not waterproof. Green board is highly efficient in bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is frequently in the air, but it is not the drywall that should be set behind tile in your shower or any other areas where it can come in direct contact with water. Water and water vapor can readily pass through ceramic tile grout and cause the paper facing of the drywall to disintegrate. Water resistant drywall is simply not recommended for areas that are subject to constant moisture.

Waterproof drywall can be purchased in panels that match the thickness of the regular drywall. The panels are made with cement and sand, or a combination of these and other ingredients. It is also possible to use a gypsum-based panel that is treated with a silicone chemical or wax-like substance. Care should be taken to use nails or screws that will not rust.

Some people will try to save the regular drywall if not completely deteriorated, and will paint several coats of semi-gloss paint, thinking the paint will protect the drywall from moisture. There are other waterproof coatings available on the market; however, these are not the best strategies. If water gets behind the paint or coating, or if there is a break where the paint stops and a sink top or cabinet edge begins, you have a weak point and damage to the drywall may start if water finds the entry point.

Instead of waterproof sheetrock or drywall, another option is a fiberglass reinforced cement board that's water proof and sturdy. The fiberglass material may last longer, but is more costly. Your remodeling contractor can provide recommendations and guidance for the repair or remodel. Above all, make sure to pay attention whether the product of choice is water resistant or waterproof.

Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance will most likely not provide coverage for damage and repairs. If a water leak resulted from an event, like a broken pipe, it may cover costs. Faulty materials and deterioration over time generally do not qualify for coverage, and are considered a homeowner maintenance responsibility. Seek guidance from your insurance agent.