“water always finds a way, especially in older homes with ‘character.’”
That line hits home. I’m smack in the middle of my first bathroom reno and was tempted by green board just because it seemed easier. But after seeing some horror pics online (and now your story), I’m leaning cement board too. It’s heavy and awkward, but I’d rather wrestle with that than deal with soggy walls down the road. Old houses really do keep you on your toes...
“water always finds a way, especially in older homes with ‘character.’”
Totally get it. I went with cement board for my last shower redo—pain to cut, but no regrets. Green board's fine for walls away from water, but anywhere near the tub? Not worth the risk.
Cement board is such a pain, but yeah, it’s the only thing I trust in a shower now. I tried green board behind a tub surround once—big mistake. Ended up with some soggy drywall after a slow leak. Lesson learned. For anywhere that’s gonna get splashed, I just bite the bullet and deal with the heavier stuff. Green board’s fine for the rest, but water’s sneaky... it’ll find you if you cut corners.
I get why everyone swears by cement board, but honestly, I went with green board for my bathroom walls (outside the shower) and haven’t had any issues. Maybe I just got lucky, or maybe it’s because I was extra careful with sealing and caulking. Not saying it’s perfect, but if you’re not dealing with direct water spray, it seems to hold up fine. Cement board’s a beast to cut and hang—my arms were toast after one sheet.
Green board gets a bad rap, but I’m with you—outside the shower, it’s been fine for me too. My “muscles” (read: noodle arms) were not ready for cement board, and after wrestling with one sheet, I was like, yeah, green board it is for the rest.
Cement board’s a beast to cut and hang—my arms were toast after one sheet.
Same. I swear I almost needed a nap after that. I did go a little overboard with the caulk and waterproofing paint, though. Maybe that’s the trick? I mean, if you’re not planning on turning your bathroom into a waterpark, green board seems to survive just fine. Wouldn’t risk it in the shower, but for regular walls? Works for me.
Honestly, I think half the battle is just being super careful with sealing up every possible gap. If water can’t sneak in, you’re probably good. At least, that’s what I’m telling myself until something goes wrong...