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Bathroom Renovation - Remove Plaster Walls?

Started by MatthewNYC80
over 9 years ago
Posts: 7
Member since: Apr 2011
Discussion about
Just bought my first apartment, and the bathroom needs a gut renovation. The walls are plaster from circa 1950 and are warped from years of moisture. Questions is do I 1) tear down the walls and replace, 2) skim coat, or 3) cover with new cement board. Thoughts from those with experience would be greatly appreciated!
Response by Primer05
over 9 years ago
Posts: 2103
Member since: Jul 2009

Remove all walls, replace branch lines back to riser, install Durock, waterproofing and tile

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Response by 30yrs_RE_20_in_REO
over 9 years ago
Posts: 9882
Member since: Mar 2009

Make sure they don't just use greenboard.

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Response by kylewest
over 9 years ago
Posts: 4455
Member since: Aug 2007

You definitely remove the walls. The last thing you want to do in undertake the most expensive room to renovate and put in a lot of lovely finishes only to have to tear it all up when you learn there iis a leak in an ancient pipe in the wall or an electrical short from old wires. Aside from preventative benefits, you gain the possibility of adding electrical outlets and lighting options, increasing water flow with slightly larger pipes which is possible in some situations, and installing wall materials that will resist mildew and issues generated by a steamy environment. If all you were doing was replacing the sink and toilet and vanity light, then leaving all else alone could be up for discussion. But once you start removing a tub/shower/tiles or dickering with the electrical or plumbing, bite the bullet and do a proper gut. You'll be glad you did in the long run.

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Response by 30yrs_RE_20_in_REO
over 9 years ago
Posts: 9882
Member since: Mar 2009

Don't forget a shut off for each item. It costs more but when something goes wrong you will be able to shut off the item in question but still use the rest of the bathroom.

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Response by Matthew80NYC
over 9 years ago
Posts: 15
Member since: Apr 2014

Great - thanks for the feedback!

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