Can I Put Sheetrock Above a Shower Surround Wall?

Sheetrock is a brand of gypsum paneling created by the USG Corporation. Sheetrock gypsum panels are used for walls, and while the company advertises its products as moisture and humidity resistant, you should think twice if you plan on installing these panels above the surround wall in your shower.

Sheetrock is highly porous, or water absorbent, and as a result, you may run into problems if you install standard Sheetrock in areas frequently exposed to water. Although the majority of water in a shower will remain isolated to the floor and the surround wall, water vapor can still penetrate surrounding walls due to the steam from the hot water. Occasional splashing also can compromise the Sheetrock.

Water penetration to a Sheetrock surface can compromise your home and health. The excess moisture can cause the drywall to corrode and decay, and also can cause mold and mildew to grow. Water-damaged Sheetrock will require costly replacement, and mold growth may require you to invest in expensive and invasive mold remediation, in addition to exposing you to potentially dangerous allergens and toxins. Before installing Sheetrock anywhere near a shower, consider the potential consequences.

Green board is a generic name for green-backed gypsum panels designed for water resistance. Green board works well in areas with very light water exposure, such as areas near sinks and toilets. In fact, the company responsible for Sheetrock, the USG Corporation, advertises its own brand of green board called Sheetrock Brand Water-Resistant Gypsum Panels, which are specifically advertised as shower-safe. Note, however, that applying water-resistant gypsum board near a shower may still prove risky due to the excessive amount of water vapor produced in a hot shower.

If you wish to install gypsum panels above your shower surround wall, look for a brand that offers waterproof gypsum panels for best results. Water-resistant panels can still leave you vulnerable, but waterproof panels can safely be installed in a shower. These non-porous panels resist water penetration completely, as opposed to water-resistant panels, which only provide moderate resistance.

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