Part 3 of 3: Making Your Shower Look Like New

In this third and final segment of the fix-your-shower series, we get to have a little fun.  If you have gotten to the place where repair of your shower is not an option, then it's time to go shopping!

First, let's consider tile.  But didn't we just get done battling all of the issues with tile in the first two segments? 

Yes, but not all tile applications are created equal.  Let's assume you have demolished the walls and you are down to the bare studs.  Let's also assume that any compromised insulation in the walls, has been replaced.  First step is a good vapor barrier.  This can be done with clear 4-mil plastic and should be fastened to the studs with plastic-cap nails. 

If there are seams, remember to tape them with exterior grade tape or a similar product and always lap the plastic from the bottom up to create a shingling effect.  Next, let's consider a backer board.  Please revisit the first segment of this series for the ills of green-board or water-resistant drywall as it is known.  I strongly recommend a 1/2" thick cement-based product like Durarock or Hardi-Board with the seams taped with mesh and bedded in mortar. 

These products will not break down like green-board if exposed to moisture, but let me be clear, they are not water-proof.  In other words, they are capable of absorbing water.  You can get a lot of bad advice on this subject, but trust me, they do absorb water.  The solution is to seal the cement backer board. 

I recommend a product by KBRS Industries called ShowerSeal.  This liquid membrane rolls on like paint and creates a waterproof layer that also allows for proper mortar adhesion.

Because of the magnitude of the process, we won't go into tile installation in this series.  But after you install your grout, don't forget to seal it after it cures!  Regarding the selection of tile, in order of durability and ease of cleaning, it generally goes in this order: porcelain, ceramic, marble, glass, then natural stones. 

Marble, glass and natural stone usually have special requirements when it comes to which mortars and grouts to use and in the case of marble and natural stone products, may also may have special requirements for actually sealing the surface of the product (especially travertine).

But let's say that you are fed up with tile and want something more maintenance free and simple to keep clean.  There have been some nice advancements in this area in the past 15 years with the use of solid surfaces like Swanstone, Corian, Staron and others. 

Other popular sheet products include recycled glass and also quartz.  You will pay a premium for these products but the allure of these materials is that except for the corners, they are virtually seamless and require no upkeep except for general cleaning. Installation can be quicker than tile as well, but may require an extra set of hands.  Because there is not grout, water penetration of the system is almost impossible.

Just remember that with today's technologies, your shower can last a lifetime if done right!