[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]

We built a tiled shower using tyvek instead of roofing felt behind the substrate. Is that OK?

??? 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]

Thanks Mike. That's just great...

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.

 

[wasdifferent]

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...

 

[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.

 

[wasdifferent]

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.

 

[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. : )

 

[wasdifferent]

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