Considering replacing my Bathtub/shower surround. Can anyone tell me if the drywall is going to have to go as well because of the glue which was used in order to install the thing in the first place? I'm thinking it's going to tear drywall paper on the way out? Any kind of solvent avail? Thanks

skiberger

You wont know untill you start removing the surround. If it pulls the paper facing off, you can spackle & prime the walls if another fiberglass surround is being installed over the drywall. Usually the glue for surrounds is put on the wall is a zig zag application so you may tear alot of paper pulling off the existing surround.
If your going tile, concrete board is recommended in place of the drywall, then all the drywall will need to be removed.
Never seen any solvents for the removal of surrounds.

labman

Drywall is cheap. Take a big hammer and smash tile, drywall, and all. Neatness doesn't count. Do give a little care to insulation, wires, and pipes that may be behind it. Spare the wall on the other side too. Then put up new, or cement board if needed.

dherman1

If you decide to use drywall under the surrond, look at the new drywall that doesn't have a paper surface. DensArmor is one brand.

Also, consider using cement board (durock, hardiboard) or desnshield instead of the drywall.

Finally, if you do decide to remove the drywall, be sure to put in some insulation in the stud bays, even on inside walls. That will help keep the shower walls warmer and deaden any noise.

Good Luck, Dan

LeeAnnMemphis

On the rental properties I have, we replaced the tub surrond on two of the units. The drywall was in good condition on both of them and did not have to be replaced. I have been very disappointed in the quality/ look of new tub surronds though. After less than a year, they already look worn/ cheap. I feel that it was a waste of my money. On the Unit I am currently remodeling, I am eithier buying a 1 piece tub/ shower unit ($200) or tiling the shower. Both of those options seem to be longer lasting and not as cheap looking. The drywall has to be replaced in that bathroom because of damage from the water getting in under the caulk on the surrond. The 1 unit model also prevents the mold/ mildew issue behind the shower wall that can develop over time as the caulk breaks down on the tub surronds models.