How to Fix the Drywall After the Tub Surround Is in Place

So you’ve just installed the best walk-in bathtub for your bathroom? Now, once the tub surround is installed, there will be a gap which remains between the top of the surround and the ceiling, which requires covering. Only use water resistant drywall or for this application.

A typical problem that drywall installers encounter is slanting which occurs when the drywall does not sit flush to the top of the tub surround. This is a common problem you might encounter even when you’re working with top rated bathtubs on the market right now. The surround has a thin lip that is used to attach the surround to the framing with screws. Here are some simple steps that will guide you on how to install the drywall;

Measure the dimensions of each needed drywall piece with a tape measure. Always measure across the bottom of each opening at the top of the surround, and also measure across at the top near the ceiling. Measure each opening perpendicularly at each end.

Transfer your dimensions to the face of a sheet of water proof drywall, and cut it with a razor knife. Cut each portion of drywall so that the factory edge of the drywall sits over the lip of the tub setting when it is installed.

Install each part of drywall with drywall screws. Install each piece tight to the ceiling and over the lip of the tub surround. You can do the same thing with acrylic bathtubs as well as cast iron bathtubs. Insert the drywall screws through the drywall, through the furring strips, and into the surrounding members with an electric drill or a screw gun. Do not let the screws to break through the external paper of the drywall.

Apply a bead of mildew resistant caulk to the gap created at the junction of the factory edge of each drywall piece and the tub surround. The drywall is now ready for finishing.

Apply only fiberglass mesh joint tape for joints between drywall pieces in bathrooms. Paper tape provides a source of food for mold and mildew.

Use caution when screwing into studs near pipes, because drywall screws can puncture copper and PVC pipe. Often, the showerhead neck exits the wall above the tub surround.

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Nikki

Founder at Shower Remedy

Nikki founded Shower Remedy in 2016, as a one-stop resource for bathroom design and renovation projects. Today she manages our team of writers and product testers who personally review every product that makes an appearance on this site. Our product testers range from contractors to professional plumbers to ordinary families, so you can get an honest review from people you can trust.