bathroom

[heretic]

i am currently working on taking out a bathtub and adding a shower unit only.
i have just finished framing walls and setting the plumbing fixtures. I am using a 32" x 48" shower base. For the walls i want to use fiberglass reinforced wall paneling.
http://www.lowes.com/lkn?action=productList&catalogId=WALL_PANELS

my question is what should i use as a backing and what type glue would be best.

[Rich]

I would use greenboard or durock with vapor barrier behind it.

[Tom R]

Most would probably say Durock, personally I prefer greenboard. Though I agree that durock will 'outlast' the greenboard, the greenboard is more user-friendly and if installed correctly will last at least 30 years, (most bathrooms get remodeled between 12-20 years). When I say installed correctly I mainly mean, - - leaving it 1/4" to 1/2" above the tub or base ledge so it can never 'wick' water, even if the caulk-line fails. This is the single most critical issue of installation.

And thank you for this 'golden' opportunity to open up a new 'can of worms'!

[Tom R]

Oh, and you can get the glue in a caulk-tube especially for fiberglass from your big-box stores, but if the walls are real 'thin' I would recommend a trowel-on glue (from a can) or you'll see/feel the bulge-lines.

[heretic]

sounds like the greenrock is what i will go with. i suppose if it comes in 1/2" i will get that size. by trowel on glue, are you refering to like a carpet glue? and do i need to float out the walls with something other than plain sheetrock mud?

and i feel stupid to ask this one but do you use teflon on plastic to copper? my pvc fittings at the faucet are not sealing all the way, i used teflon.

and np on the can of worms, i am glad someone replied....:)

[Tom R]

Yes, similar to carpet or vinyl adhesive, but make sure it works for fiberglass to drywall. And make sure if the directions say so, you cut off any 'pilot' flames in the house. A lot of these glues have heavy vapors.
- - Regular spackle is fine. - - As far as plastic to copper, I don't know the 'recommended' procedure, but I would use pipe dope rather than teflon. Also, with plastic, you have to be careful not to 'overtighten. - - Maybe someone else will 'pipe' in. :D