In the process of remodeling my Bathroom, I have cut out portions of the drywall to replace pipes. Currently I have just opened up fairly small areas where the risers and stops are located for sinks and toilets.(the shower walls will be CBU and tile). Eventually I will cut out squared, larger sections of the drywall so it can be replaced better. I then plan on covering the lower portion of the non tiled wall with wainscoting of some kind. My question is would it be better to use something other than drywall (like plywood) for patches since it will be covered anyway? And if I do use drywall would it need to be tapped and joint compound finished? (I'm thinking to block drafts and moisture etc.) Any suggestions or ideas? Thanks.

 

My train of thought is to always complete a project so that there is nothing left to chance. Should you use another type of material other than dry wall? No, I wouldn't do it. In a moisture-rich place like a bathroom don't leave anything to chance, especially chance gaps in the wall where moisture can enter the home or even get behind your walls! As for joint compound, I wouldn't even think twice about that, do it!

 

Yeah, that makes sense, and I did consider that. So you would use and finish drywall, just as if you were not going to cover it? Would you paint it also, even if you were going to cover it?

 

I'd tape the drywall but not so sure I'd bother finishing it any further since it will be covered up. I'd also prime it to give it some protection if moisture ever gets to it.......... but then I am a painter

 

I'm with Mark - I'd fix the holes as if they were going to be visible and then prime.

 

That's probably what I Will do.

 

If the holes are small, why make them larger? Take some short pieces of 1x4 and slip them into the wall, center them on the edge of your hole (so that half of the 1x4 is providing you with a nailer to screw a patch to) and screw the existing drywall to the 1x4 to secure it. Do that on each side of your small patches and you will have something to screw your patch to.

At a minimum, tape the joints with paper tape to reduce air infiltration.

 

I've seen that trick. If I can keep them small enough I will give it a shot.