Tyvek Behind Shower

calypso

We built a tiled shower using tyvek instead of roofing felt behind the substrate. Is that OK? The tyvek was stapled directly to the studs and overlapped the shower basin lip. 1/4 " hardybacker was next installed and all seams were taped and mortared. The tile was bonding mortared to the hardybacker and grouted. There was a shower seat that was sloped and tiled also. In the seat area the tyvek was not cut but folded into place. Can tyvek be used in place of felt?

PipeGuy

??? What if it isn't?

calypso

Boom!!! $#!T... there go my brains

Mike Finley

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calypso

Thanks Mike. That's just great...

Mike Finley

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PipeGuy

Calypso, why are you asking here? Go to Hardi's web site and get it straight from the manufacturuer. From the site " Hardibacker is available in 1/4” thickness for both floors and walls". James Hardie

Maybe next time check BEFORE you do the work?

PipeGuy

Q: Can Hardibacker 1/4" ceramic tile backerboard be used in a shower wall application? Is a vapor barrier required?
A: Yes, Hardibacker 1/4" ceramic tile backerboard can be used in a shower. However we recommend Hardibacker G2 if you need to make a smooth transition to drywall. The underlayment must be mechanically fastened every 8" on center to the wood or metal studs spaced a maximum of 16" on center. A vapor barrier is recommended.

mikesewell

The Tile Council of America puts out a Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation. It contains detail drawings for all of the common installations. It only costs about 7 or 8 dollars. I wouldn't be without one.

Last week I went to look at a bathtub/shower/ceramic tile wall, which was not done correctly. Water was leaking through the floor, and onto the Owner's Steinway piano. This week, somewhere in Albany NY, is a VERY unhappy tile installer...

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calypso

Thanks for all the information from all of you. I did ask around before installing the hardibacker. That's why I was crying in my beer when Mike Finley questioned the use of hardibacker in a shower. (sorry Mike, I was not trying to shoot the messenger, I was just adding up my potential woes. My humor doesn't always hit the mark) I am very glad it is really OK to use. (thanks for that info Pipeguy)
Alot of the time I ask you guys first rather than go directly to the maker of a product because you have used all of these materials/products and know how they hold up out in the field. I value your street smarts.
I have stopped loosing sleep over it. Next time though, I will install a rubber liner below the shower seat that overlaps into the shower basin rather than folded tyvar.
And... no pianos allowed.

mikesewell

We don't get a choice about the pianos. When the customer slides a Steinway into place under the bathroom, it changes the old risk/reward ratio.

Want street smarts? I know a tile guy who's got'em. I'll bet that right about now, he'd say to buy the book. LOL.

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Mike Finley

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calypso

I am going to use 1/2" cement board next time. I may even try an official trowelled concrete shower. (after many hours of research first of course). My new mantra is, "Hope is not a method". It has been in my head for days like an old song that won't go away. : )

mikesewell

calypso,
Learned it the hard way, just like everybody else. I hope (LOL) that it serves you well.
Best wishes,

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