Welcome to the Dripping Springs Handyman Website! Here is an article written by Keith Paul,
founder of HandyPro
Handyman Services with tips for installing a tub surround:
I am installing
ceramic tile in my bathroom shower, I have removed everything to the studs,
what should I install before the tile? -Tim Y.
Updating
your bathroom is one of the best ways to increase the value of your home, not
to mention increase your living experience. Designed and installed correctly,
you can protect your home from mold growth and moisture damage.
As in most
home improvement projects, preparation is the key. There are many underlayment
products in the market and educating yourself can save you money and time.
Installing
ceramic tile over “green” drywall has been recommended throughout the years.
This is not to be confused with “green sustainable” products, but green as in
the color. This drywall is moisture-resistant. I do not recommend it, because
if you were to submerse it in a pail of water for a day, it would be destroyed.
However the following products would not.
The most
commonly used cement boards are known as DUROCK and HardieBacker cement board,
which is impervious to water. Installation can be slightly more challenging
because they require special fasteners and cutting blades, but the benefits far
out way the cost of the extra tools.
In my
experience, I recommend HardiBacker board because it is easier to cut, fit and
install. Remember to pre-drill holes before fastening to the wall with moisture
resistant screws.
Before
installing the board, attach a waterproof membrane over the studs and under the
board. This will protect the wood in case of water penetration. If the water
were to seep through the tile and cement board, it would run down the membrane,
keeping the wood dry and free from water damage and mold. Don’t forget to
create a seamless area after installing the cement board by taping all seams
with joint tape.
Making your
bathtub a masterpiece will take a little time and special attention, but the
years of enjoyment of your “Work of Art” can be priceless.
What’s on your to-do
list? HandyPro Handyman Services offers
affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance
projects. They also offer senior home
modification services including kitchen and bathroom
remodeling, stair lifts, wheelchair ramps, super strong grab bars, walk-in
tubs and showers and more. HandyPro
specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor
repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100%
customer satisfaction.
Hiring a
Handyman, CEAC, Certified Environment Access Consultant, Senior home
modification, wheelchair ramps, stair rails and grab bars,
stair lifts, kitchen and bathroom retrofitting, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall,
Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance,
paint home, caulk
bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running
toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass,
door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete,
masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning,
siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers,
replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, decks, and
much more…just ask!