Can exterior block walls be used for shower walls?
rockybird
7 years ago
I'm just exploring options. My midcentury home has a really cool decorative block wall that I will be adding a master bath/bedroom to. If I put the shower against the block wall, could it be sealed and used as is, instead of tile? Or is this just asking for trouble?
Featured Answer
Sort by:Oldest
Comments (14)
rockybird
7 years agoRelated Discussions
Concrete block exterior--insulation on exterior wall?
Comments (0)We are remodeling master bath in FL house--concrete block exterior and bath has three sides on exterior corner-- shower and tub are coming out--and adding larger 4x6 shower on wall where tub is now... contractor who will likely do the job (can't get anyone else to follow through) sent initial scope of work today-- doesn't mention adding any insulation to walls where shower and tub are coming out-- doesn't mention any weather stripping/insulation around window that is in current shower stall...we are taking out existing linen closet on that wall beside shower that is coming out--replacing with larger linen closet and some cabinets under the window--so new dry wall will be needed in some areas... I think this window which was changed out for original several years ago by other owners might be part of reason there is water damage behind tiles in shower... DO these concrete block homes have insulation--there is only a very shallow build out with flat firring stips behind the sheetrock now from what I understand-- if you can't do real insulation, should there be a vapor barrier? nothing like that was mentioned in the scope of work...although he will use a vinyl membrane in the shower stall......See Morereplacement window in block wall with brick exterior
Comments (2)i'm sure we used the fins on our home. i did a quick search and found this..hope it will help. the directions are pretty "thin" on the actual replacement windows, lol...we did double hung pop-out pellas Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.coastalcontractor.net/pdf/2007/0705/0705repl.pdf...See MoreBuilding/waterproofing shower w/cement block exterior walls?
Comments (9)My husband spoke with the tile guy yesterday. He uses Lacticrete/epoxy grout which he felt was going to work as form of waterproofing in itself to keep water from penetrating behind tile--but is willing to use liquid waterproofing medium over the Durock. He also said that his bid did not include building the pan since the plumbers have to jack current slab and relocate drain from its current location (for the original tub) into middle of new floor space for shower...the plumbers are supposed to build the pan with preslope... he said they/plumbers would put in vinyl liner and a conventional drain....These two guys have done many projects together before and guess they know how the other operates. We didn't see anything in plumber's bid about building the shower pan so we have asked for clarification but no answer yet. I don't have problem using the waterproofing liquid over the pan vs vinyls liner...What is price difference in using Kerdi or Lacticrete drain over conventional? The tile guy told my husband that the vinyl liner should go up the shower sides about 10 inches and then be tucked behind the Durock....(if my husband heard right)... Is that approved practice? I thought there was supposed to be gap between those two surfaces that was filled with silicone--that they didn't touch...am I mistaken? In case they decide to go that route... Should/can the exposed ends of the Durock be waterproofed?...See MoreCan shower curtain tension rod be used on Swanstone shower walls?
Comments (7)Oh boy!! I am going to have that rod put right down on those Swanstone walls asap. So glad for your info. Thanks so much! What a help you were. I am 100% wheelchair dependent and really was fretting about how to remedy this. A couple of years ago when I had the bathroom rehab done, I had frameless shower doors installed. Was ok for a while because I could get into the shower without transferring....just holding onto shower bars and such. My condition progressed until I could only access shower by transferring from wheelchair and the sliding glass doors did not give me enough room to safely transfer in and out, so I had doors taken out and went to the shower curtains. Works much better!...See Morerockybird
7 years agorockybird
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agorockybird
7 years agoThanks palimpsest! I didnt think of that! I'll double check with the contractor to see what he thinks then! If I move the shower to this wall, I thought it would be neat to leave it exposed. I could paint it light grey, or keep the white and maybe do a matte terrazzo on the floor. I could put a bench next to the vanity or maybe a makeup counter? Also, I dont think I would do a shower door.
rockybird
7 years agorockybird
7 years agorockybird
7 years ago
Related Stories
THE ART OF ARCHITECTUREDesign Practice: 11 Ways Architects Can Overcome Creative Blocks
When inspiration remains elusive, consider these strategies for finding your creative muse
Full Story
KITCHEN DESIGNYes, You Can Use Brick in the Kitchen
Quell your fears of cooking splashes, cleaning nightmares and dust with these tips from the pros
Full Story
LIFEThe Polite House: How Can I Kindly Get Party Guests to Use Coasters?
Here’s how to handle the age-old entertaining conundrum to protect your furniture — and friendships
Full Story
WALL TREATMENTSCan't Find the Right Wallpaper? Make Your Own
For one-of-a-kind walls, just use your imagination. Custom wallpaper is easier and less expensive than you might expect
Full Story
REMODELING GUIDESGreat Material: Glass Block Grows Up
See how designers are using the humble glass block for privacy, pattern and light
Full Story
PLANTING IDEAS8 Ways Evergreens Can Provide Structure in the Landscape
Create a garden that looks good year-round by using evergreens as natural walls, dividers and focal points
Full Story
BLACKHow Shiny Black Can Take Your Room to the Next Level
Glossy black on furniture, walls and cabinetry adds sophistication and style. Here are 11 ways to use it
Full Story
REMODELING GUIDESRenovation Detail: The Knee Wall Railing
Small in stature but big on privacy, knee wall railings add a Craftsman-style element to porches and don't block the view
Full Story
GREEN BUILDINGHouzz Call: What Have You Salvaged for Home Use?
If your floors, furniture, exterior materials or other home elements have a past life, we'd like to hear the story
Full Story
BATHROOM DESIGNYes, You Can Go Bold With Wallpaper in a Powder Room
The smallest room in the house can make the biggest design impact. Here are 10 of our favorite papered powder rooms
Full StorySponsored
palimpsest