We recommend using
No need to shop locally, we can provide plenty of that right here. If your ceiling height is close to a standard eight feet, regular drywall is perfectly adequate for your ceiling and for the walls above the level of the shower head plumbing.
Drywall is a common bathroom ceiling material, but when it comes to areas with high moisture, like showers, greenboard is the better option. Greenboard's core has a wax-like substance that repels water, making it more resistant to moisture than regular drywall.
Cement board offers superior durability as the material is specifically engineered to withstand heavy loads without sagging or warping, making it exceptionally robust and resilient. It is highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, ensuring longevity in wet environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.
What do You Use for a Shower Ceiling? Similar to the rest of the bathroom ceiling, it is best to use drywall, acrylic, tile, cement board, fiberglass and more. Ensure the material you choose is waterproof.
For areas that will have direct water contact, such as shower walls, Cement Backer Board is often the go-to choice. Made of reinforced concrete with a glass fiber mesh on both sides, this material is designed to serve as a substrate for tile.
Even if there is no huge water leak such as from a hole in the roof, the steam and moisture of showers, bathtubs, and boiling pots can potentially affect the structure and safety of a house or building. This is why vapor barriers are needed in areas that are more moisture-prone.
Use condensation-reducing paint
If you find condensation of your bathroom ceiling and walls after your shower, there are paints on the market that will absorb moisture to prevent condensation. Some also contain anti-mould agents to help prevent the formation of mould.
Cement backer board, such as HardieBacker and Durock, is a popular choice due to their exceptional durability and resistance to moisture. It's made from a cement and fiber mixture, making it perfect for wet areas like showers.
PVC panels are one of the most popular choices for bathroom ceilings, and for good reason. These panels are highly moisture-resistant, making them a suitable option for bathrooms with high humidity levels. They are also known for their ease of installation, making them a favourite among DIY enthusiasts.
If you do want greenboard on your ceiling, you can accomplish the installation safely by adding on some blocking to allow you to nail or screw the material every foot. However, it's generally easier to just go with a different material like standard drywall with a paint finish.
Semi-gloss paint is great because it's durable, you can wash it, and it's resistant to mildew. Semi-gloss acts as a moisture-blocking barrier, keeping your bathroom ceilings and walls looking great for years to come.
For bathrooms, you are better off choosing green, blue, or purple ceiling boards. Green Board. As its name implies, it has a green covering that makes it moisture resistant, compared to regular drywall.
Finally, to prevent moisture intrusion, caulk the gap between the Shower Bead and the shower/bath unit. For additional protection, you're able to lay a bead of caulk onto the shower/tub flange and embed the support leg of the Shower Bead in it, as shown above.
MDF is a popular choice for shower panels because it is strong, durable, and easy to work with. MDF shower panels are finished with a laminate that is 100% waterproof which is the face that showcases the design.
Do You Have to Seal Cement Board in a Tile Shower? It's wise to seal cement board with a layer of waterproof sheeting to prevent water from seeping through and into the boards, which could cause mold growth or compromise the integrity of the structure/wall. You may also seal the cement board with thin-set mortar.
It is possible to tile over drywall where it is not subject to extreme humidity and is secure. It is not recommended to lay tiles over walls and areas subject to moisture, such as in showers. The water in these areas could eventually seep into the tile, causing damage to the tile, mold, or infestations.
A plumber may also re-seal the shower drain. This involves removing the old gasket and cleaning away any residue or old sealant. Next, a new gasket goes in, a silicone sealant is applied to waterproof the area, and then the drain is put back in place.
Bathrooms contain surfaces that are prone to condensation. These include windows, cold walls and ceilings. This excess moisture is what causes black mould. Small amounts of mould are harmless but prolonged exposure to mould can cause skin and respiratory conditions to worsen.
Yes, covering your insulation with a vapor barrier plastic before installing drywall is crucial. It prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold, rot, and even structural damage. A polyethylene vapor barrier also adds a layer of fire protection, making your home safer.
If you want to enjoy the benefits of moisture resistance then moisture-resistant plasterboard is essential for a bathroom or any other wet area. However, if you are tiling boards then the tiles should provide sufficient moisture resistance.
Use water-resistant materials like PVC panels, cement board, or moisture-resistant gypsum board for bathroom ceilings.