I’ve run into the same issue—green board just doesn’t hold up in the wettest spots, no matter what the marketing says. Cement board’s been my go-to for showers and tub surrounds for years now. I do wonder, though, if anyone’s tried those newer waterproof wall panels instead of tile? They seem promising, especially for rental units where long-term durability is key. Curious if they’re actually worth the investment or just another trend...
Green board is just not up to the job where water’s involved, no matter how they market it. I learned that the hard way—tried it once behind a tub, followed all the “rules,” and still ended up with mushy drywall after a couple years. Cement board’s heavier, sure, but it gives me peace of mind.
About those waterproof wall panels: I was skeptical at first, but after putting them in a rental property last year, I’m actually impressed. They went up faster than tile, no grout to mess with, and cleaning’s a breeze. The panels I used (think they were PVC-based) have held up to some seriously rough tenants—no cracks or leaks so far. Only downside is you lose that classic tile look, but for rentals or basements, I’d say they’re worth it. Not sure I’d put them in a master bath, but for high-traffic or low-maintenance spots? Makes sense to me.
Couldn’t agree more about green board behind tubs or showers—it just doesn’t cut it long-term. Cement board’s a hassle to haul, but it’s the only thing I’ll trust in wet zones. Those PVC panels are surprisingly tough, too. I put some in my basement bathroom, and the time savings alone made it worthwhile. If you’re after low-maintenance, that’s hard to beat, even if it’s not as pretty as tile.
Tile Still Wins for Looks, But PVC Has Its Place
Those PVC panels are surprisingly tough, too. I put some in my basement bathroom, and the time savings alone made it worthwhile.
You nailed it—PVC panels have come a long way, especially for utility spaces or rentals. I’ve used them in laundry rooms where moisture’s always an issue and honestly, they hold up better than folks expect. Still, if someone wants that classic look, nothing really beats tile over cement board. Green board just doesn’t belong anywhere water might linger... seen too many callbacks from folks who tried to cut corners there.
- Totally agree about green board not being the best for wet areas. I learned that the hard way in my first bathroom reno—thought it’d be “good enough” behind the shower, and now I’m redoing it after just a couple years.
- PVC panels are way easier to work with than I expected. Didn’t need fancy tools, and they’re light enough to handle solo. Plus, no grout to clean... which is a win in my book.
- Tile looks amazing, but man, it’s a commitment. Cutting, leveling, grouting—definitely more work, but the end result is hard to beat if you want that classic vibe.
- Cement board feels like overkill until you see what happens when moisture gets behind anything else. I’d rather spend a bit more up front than deal with mold or soft walls later.
- If you’re on a tight budget or just want something quick for a basement or laundry room, PVC makes sense. But for main bathrooms, I’m sticking with tile and cement board from now on. Learned my lesson!
