In most cases the affected wall board will have to be removed and replaced along with any tile. The problem is that (especially in older homes) builders used a type of wallboard that was not water resistant. With this kind of board, even the smallest of cracks in the grout or tile can allow water to penetrate into the board causing it to weaken and eventually crumble.

The good news is that it’s is not necessarily an expensive fix and there is specially-made wallboard for bathrooms and other wet areas, called Durock cement board, that will not crumble almost no matter how wet it ever gets.

Durock cement board is what is technically referred to as “cementitious backerunit.” Although not waterproof, it is highly water-resistant and is frequently used with a waterproof membrane for tile installations. It is not typically used for painted surfaces.

Another option for the wall areas outside the shower is greenboard which is somewhat more resistant to water than standard wallboard and is a good choice for painting.

In truth, much of the problem of the steam build-up in your bathroom might be alleviated with proper (increased) ventilation. But Durock or a similar cement board is an absolute must in areas like tub and shower surrounds.

Unfortunately, the local (Palm Beach County, Florida) building codes do not require Durock in bathrooms, which is the leading cause of mold build up in the walls and can lead to the ugly continuous black grout mold and the eventual collapse of the walls surrounding the bathing area.

Watkins Construction uses only Durock cement board in wet areas and green board in the surrounding areas so you won’t have to face this problem again.

We’ve been doing bathroom repair and remodeling for more than 20 years and have thousands of happy customers. Let us make it easy for you.

Just call us at 561.719.8627 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation today or you can click here and we’ll contact you!

Honestly, you should start by calling us at 561.719.8627 for a free, no obligation consultation. We can help you take your ideas, mesh them with your budget and come up with a great plan to help you get the bathroom of your dreams. You can prepare for our meeting by cutting out pictures from magazines and newspapers of bathrooms and styles that appeal to you. We can help you get the look for less.

Call us at 561.719.8627 for a free, no obligation quote today or click here and we’ll contact you!

Your Palm Beach Builders representative can help you with this process. Be honest with us about your budget expectations. Cabinets, appliances and floor coverings come in a variety of price ranges. A bathroom design can usually be done with just about any budget. Some adjustments may be required, but the basic design can usually be achieved within a a desired price range.

Bathroom remodeling can run from a few to many thousands, depending on your vision and your taste. It’s our job to make sure you get the look you want within the constraints of your budget. We’ve been doing it for more than 20 years and have thousands of happy customers. Let us make it easy for you.

Just call us at 561.719.8627 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation today or you can click here and we’ll contact you!