I have helped mud, sand, etc. drywall in the past BUT do not know rights and wrongs of drywall that has been left unfinished for years in an otherwise used bathroom. I want to finish remodeling children's bathroom. Drywall has patches of mud that need sanding and the same with the greenboard in ceilling of shower. Tub has been used without the shower fixture so ceiling has not got wet.

Do I need any further preparation on the shower ceiling greenboard that looks unmarred or drywall above sink area that does look like water spots (or could be soap, toothpaste water splats) but has not rot or mildew?

Thank you,
From a (new to this) fixer upper mom

Are you planning to tile or what in this bathroom? Greenboard is water resistant but should not just get poaint in the wet areas like tub or shower.

Patch and sand all areas as needed, use a good stain blocker primer and paint
Get r done:)

Afraid we really need the answers to my question before suggesting painting as the solution. Poster mentions tub/shoiwer and that area should not be painted. Tell us Kelly, are you planning to tile?

Sounds like the walls are already finished in the shower area:)

Greenboard is not very water resistant. It only has a bit of asphalt mixed into the gypsum slurry when it's manufactured. It will support mold growth and get mushy if exposed to water. It is not Approved by either it's manufacturer, the International Residential Code, or by the National Tile Contractor's Association for use as a tile backer in a 'wet wall'. Cement board is far superior. If you do apply tile over the greenboard I would recommend using RedGuard or other waterproofing prior to installing the tile. Also, the use of thin-set mortar is advised instead of tile mastic. Once the tile is installed use several coats of grout sealer and keep an eye out for any grout cracking or caulk failure. You can't allow any moisture penetration of the tile will loosen and the greenboard will turn into mush. Why not browse around the Ceramic Tile Advice Forum at Ceramic Tile, John Bridge Tile, Marble and Stone Lots of real pros there ready to help. Good luck!!