If you are replacing shower tiles or drywall, the backer board might need to be replaced. This membrane prevents condensation from building up inside the wall. If there is no vapor barrier, it could lead to mold and mildew. It is a good idea, to hire a specialist.
Before you start, check if there is any water damage. Leaks often begin at the edge of the tile and the top of your tub. Also, look out for mold and mildew. An indication of a problem is black spots on the shower's edges.
Depending on how old the shower is, you might need to cut tiles to make the base. Tiles are easy to remove, but you should wear work gloves to protect your hands. It is possible to grab larger pieces using a vacuum hose attachment. However, be careful not damage it.
It is important to be familiar with the process of replacing shower tiles and drywall. A professional can help you with this, but if you are comfortable doing it yourself, you can save a lot of money and frustration.
Make sure to use the right material for the job. Fiberboard is an excellent choice, as it can be painted just like drywall. It is waterproof and can be installed over standard drywall. You can also use greenboard that is resistant to moisture. Greenboard's paper facing is impregnated with waxes and is slightly more water resistant than plain drywall.
While you are working on removing old tiles and drywall, make sure to check the area for leaks and mold. Mold and mildew can indicate that drywall is not doing its job. Once you've found the problem, the next step is to fix it.
A vapor barrier is also an option. A vapor barrier, which is different from conventional drywall, prevents water vapor migrating through the backer board or wood wall supports. For the membrane to stay in place, you will need a thinset adhesive as well as a waterproof sheet membrane.
Another step is to remove the grout. Although grout isn't waterproof, it can be used as a filler between tiles. You can smoothen the edges of the grout after removing it. Asbestos can sometimes get into mastic, so be careful.
For the best results, you should lay out your new tile in a pattern. Start in the corner closest to the door and work your ways toward the end. You'd be better off hiring someone who is skilled in tile work.
You can support the tile with a straight board while it dries. You should be able to find tile spacers at your local hardware store. Whether you decide to use a straight board or concrete board depends on the shape and size of your shower.
FAQ
What is the average time it takes to renovate a house?
It depends on the size of the project and the amount of time that you spend each day. The average homeowner works on the project for three to six hour a week.
Is it more cost-effective to hire a subcontractor or a general contractor?
It is more expensive to hire a general contractor than to subcontract. General contractors often have many employees and charge clients high labor costs. A subcontractor, on the other hand, only hires one worker, and charges less per hour.
Are you better off doing floors or walls?
The best way to start any project is by deciding on what you want to achieve. It's important to think about how you are going to use the space, who will use it and why they need it. This will help you choose flooring or wallcoverings.
If you have decided that you want to create an open plan kitchen/living area then you may choose to install flooring first. You could also consider wall coverings for privacy if this is the space you are looking to create.
Do I require permits to renovate a house?
Yes. You will need permits to start any home renovation project. In most cases you will need to have a building permit along with a plumber's permit. A zoning license may also be needed depending on the type or construction you are doing.
Statistics
- They'll usually lend up to 90% of your home's "as-completed" value, but no more than $424,100 in most locales or $636,150 in high-cost areas. (kiplinger.com)
- Design-builders may ask for a down payment of up to 25% or 33% of the job cost, says the NARI. (kiplinger.com)
- ‘The potential added value of a loft conversion, which could create an extra bedroom and ensuite, could be as much as 20 per cent and 15 per cent for a garage conversion.' (realhomes.com)
- According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry's 2019 remodeling impact report , realtors estimate that homeowners can recover 59% of the cost of a complete kitchen renovation if they sell their home. (bhg.com)
- A final payment of, say, 5% to 10% will be due when the space is livable and usable (your contract probably will say "substantial completion"). (kiplinger.com)
External Links
How To
Where can you find information about home improvement?
You can save money on home improvements while still improving your home. You can make your home look better without spending too much money. You can paint, landscape, or add a hot tub to your home. There are many online resources that will help you choose the right project for you if you're interested in making these kinds of changes.
There is a lot of information available on the internet regarding home improvement projects. Numerous websites give detailed instructions on how you can complete different tasks. These websites often include pictures of completed projects to help you visualize what your home would look like after each task is finished.
Professionals may also write articles about home improvement topics. You might find a magazine article on the best paint for walls. This article could give you tips on choosing colors and types of paints that complement your existing decor.
There are many websites that offer tips and advice on home improvement. Houzz.com is a great place to find out more about home improvements. Each website contains useful information about products, services, and other relevant topics.
Some websites focus exclusively on home improvement. Lowe's.com is one example. It allows you to search through the company's collection of tools and materials for home improvement projects. You might also find helpful information about choosing and installing window treatments.
Home improvements can be exciting, rewarding, and fun. It is possible to make your house more attractive by learning about them.