Yeah, I’ve had similar issues with green board in high-moisture spots. It’s tempting because it’s cheaper and easier to cut, but honestly, after replacing soggy drywall around a leaky shower, I’m convinced it’s not worth the hassle. Cement board’s a pain to work with, but it just lasts longer. Maybe for a half-bath or somewhere with less water, green board makes sense, but anywhere near tubs or showers? I’d rather spend a bit more up front and not worry about hidden mold later.
Green board in the news—worth the hype for bathrooms?
Man, I learned this lesson the hard way. Thought I was being clever saving a few bucks with green board behind my tub—fast forward a year and I’m peeling back soggy drywall like it’s wet cardboard. Never again. Cement board is heavy and makes me question my life choices every time I lug it up the stairs, but at least it doesn’t turn into a science experiment when things get damp. Maybe green board’s fine for powder rooms, but anywhere water hangs around? Not worth the gamble, in my opinion.
Thought I was being clever saving a few bucks with green board behind my tub—fast forward a year and I’m peeling back soggy drywall like it’s wet cardboard. Never again.
Been there, done that, got the soggy drywall to prove it. I tried to convince myself green board was “good enough” for the shower wall—my wallet loved the idea, but my future self did not. Dragging cement board up two flights is a workout I wouldn’t wish on anyone, but at least it doesn’t melt if you look at it wrong. For half-baths or dry areas, green board’s fine, but anywhere near a tub? I’d rather skip the moldy surprise.
Green board’s one of those things that sounds good on paper, but in practice? Not worth the headache behind a tub or shower. I’ve had to rip out sections in an old bathroom—mold city, even with a fan running. If you’re dealing with real moisture, cement board is just the way to go. Yeah, it’s heavy and awkward, but it doesn’t turn to mush after a year. For powder rooms or spots far from water, green board’s fine, but anywhere else... just not worth the gamble.
I’ve had to rip out sections in an old bathroom—mold city, even with a fan running. If you’re dealing with real moisture, cement board is just the way to go.
I get where you’re coming from—mold is no joke. I’ve seen green board fail in a shower surround, even though the label said “moisture resistant.” But have you ever tried using a waterproofing membrane over green board? I did that once in a small guest bath, and it actually held up pretty well. Still, I keep asking myself: is it worth the risk when cement board exists? The weight’s a pain, but peace of mind is hard to beat. Curious if anyone’s found a truly eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t involve hauling cement up stairs...
