Our 1970s bathroom needs help! The tiles are beginning to fall off the crumbling sheetrock. What type of backing should we use for our new bathroom wall tile? Does one type hold up better than others? We're on a tight budget, but we want something that will last. If it matters... we live in central Texas, where the clay soils crack and shift dreadfully, making the walls come apart at the seams!

 

buckeye1953,

Well here is my 2 cents worth, hopefully this will help you out with no worries if done as recommended.

Water resistant greenboard sheetrock should not be used for walls that will be subjected to heavy amounts of moisture. This includes but is not limited to, shower stalls and tub enclosures.
Green board is water resistant but not water proof and will disintegrate if it is exposed to excessive amounts of moisture. It no longer is approved for use (ANSI A108) as a wet substrate. Depending on moisture conditions, this product is acceptable for use as a ceramic tile substrate in residential backsplashes and bathroom wainscotings. Wood studs should be spaced a maximum of 16" on center. Ceiling studs should be spaced a maximum of 12" on center if ceramic tile is to be applied. The use of a vapor barrier is not recommended for this type of product.

I recommend the use of ½" thick ceramic tile backerboards (some call it by brand Durock, others may just say cement board) for use in bathrooms for tub and shower enclosure walls. Wood studs should be spaced a maximum of 16" on center.

In high moisture areas, a moisture barrier (such as 15 pound roofing felt) should be installed over wall studs before installing the ceramic tile backerboard to the wall.

http://www.hardibacker.com/hardibackerinstall.htm

http://www.cgcinc.com/cgcdiy/DIYCB/welcome.htm

http://interiordec.about.com/gi/dyna...com%2Ftca3.htm

Hope this helps!

 

Thank you, Doug! That advice really does help clear things up for me. I think we'll be able to make an informed decision now. Wish us luck!