DIY Network

Howdy all.

I have a shower stall, around the top of which is about 18" of painted drywall. I would like to tile this. Is it ok to tile over the top of painted drywall? Here is my plan of attack:

- Roughen the paint with sandpaper.

- Use ceramic tiles with thinset mortar

- Grout with non-sanded grout.

- Seal grout after about a week.


Am I missing anything?

Thanks

Not sure about code here, but should be able to tile over the drywall with out any problems. I did just this in my old house. I had a three peice stand up shower, with painted drywall above (18 inches or so). Did not even sand the walls as I recall. It never got direct water contact so it was fine. The real experts here should chime in with the real scoop.

As far as putting tile up - you have a good plan. I would typically put green-board sheetrock in a shower area up high to make sure no moisture would cause damage.

If you wall is already fine and dry, the tile should serve to protect it even more.

I would silicone caulk the tile where it meets the shower stall, and in the corners (they will eventually crack if just grouted)

I agree about the silicone caulk. Otherwise you might end up with mold issues.

To make 100% sure this is going to work why not spend the extra $25.00 and attach 1/4 tile board? At least clean the walls with bleach and water first.