Everycontractor.com connecting millions of residential and commercial customers with professionals worldwide... since 1998
What are you looking for? Enter your city,state or ZIP code  
   Expert
Are you dreading the moment your guests ask to use the bathroom? There are many steps that you can take – from minor repairs and updates to major remodeling – to improve the functionality and appearance of one of the most-visited rooms in the house. Our articles and advice are a great place to start. <<<
Our  Expert
EveryContractor
With years of experience . The EC expert provide answers and insight to questions asked pertaining to the Industry. Please ask your question in the form at the top of the column on your right. a href="http://www.everycontractor.com/" target="popExpert">EveryContractor /a> <<<
 
Ask the Expert
Q. We are in the process of replacing a couple of pieces of drywall in our shower that have water damage. The drywall is covered with tile - we have removed the tiles from the damaged drywall, have cleaned them off and are planning on reapplying them to the replacement drywall pieces. We cut out the damaged portions of drywall starting at the edge of the bathtub and went up 3 rows of tiles until we felt dry, strong drywall, making the top cut on the area that is the bottom edge of the 4th row of tiles. Do you see any likely problem in the future with water leakage at the site of the top seam since this seam will be at the edge of the 4th row of tiles rather than being in the area that is the middle area of tile? If you think that will be satisfactory, what would be the best material to apply along that seam to prevent leakage? - or do you think it's necessary to remove the 4th row of tiles and have the top edge of the replacement drywall go to the middle of the 4th row of tiles/old drywall? What material would you suggest to fill-in any small gaps between drywall edges due to cutting inaccuracies? Also, have you ever heard of a drywall called "Aqua Tough tile backerboard" and is this ok to use in the shower rather than green board or cement board? Thanks for your time in answering my questions -
-P. Schroeder, Denver, CO
A. Answer coming soon.
 
Q. WE ARE REREMODELING A BATHROOM AND USED A FLAT PAINT ON THE WALLS. WE NOW REALIZE WE MADE A MISTAKE. CAN WE PUT A SATIN CLEAR COAT OVER IT TO SEAL IT?
-CHRISTINE, SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
A. Bathroom and Kitchen areas have special painting needs. The moisture and heat in these areas make them prime spots for mold and mildew to thrive. There are paints specially made for these locations that contain mildew inhibitor fighting qualities. Satin paint would be ok if it is a bathroom/kitchen style of paint but I recommend going with a semi-gloss. Bathroom quality is a bit more expensive than just regular paint but it will save you hundreds in the long run. If you would like to hire a professional help with the painting project please feel free to contact us directly at 888-326-0653 opt #1.
 
Q. If I need to replace a wall in my bathroom, what type of wallboard should I use?
-Cindy Barnard, Bloomington, Indiana
A. Hi Cindy, I recommend using green board for the walls in your bathroom. Remember to completely prime the green board before painting your newly designed bathroom!
 
Q. What is the best kind of paint to use in a small bathroom?
-Cindy Barnard, Bloomington, Indiana
A. This is a great question! You'll want to go with a semi-gloss latex paint, with a high-gloss latex paint on the trim -- especially around the windows, if there are windows in your bathroom. If the walls currently have any cracks, pits or other damage, I highly recommend applying a skim coat before painting.
 
Q. I need to replace my bathroom ceiling. What type of material should I use?
-Cindy Barnard, Bloomington, Indiana
A. Hi Cindy, There is an ongoing debate about which is best: dry wall or green board. While green board is moisture resistant, it’s also very heavy and can sag with time. I recommend looking into DensArmor, a brand of drywall that is mold resistant. Because you’ll be installing this ceiling in your bathroom, I’d like to also point out that you MUST adequately prepare the new ceiling surface before you paint it. Use a prime coat such as “Kilz” premium primer and give it adequate time to cure before you paint your new bathroom ceiling.
 
Q. I am looking into a closomatic toilet. What can you tell me about these?
-a.alan, cardiff, wales.uk
A. Clos-o-mat is actually a brand name for a type of toilet that combines a toilet, bidet and drying function. It is especially helpful for people with limited mobility. If you are considering adding a Clos-o-mat to an existing bathroom, be sure to ask about not only installation costs but also any ongoing (monthly) costs.
 
Q. What type of shower tiles are the most durable?
-Stacey Franken, Reno, NV
A. Glass tile is known for its durability and stunning appearance. Ceramic tile, too, is very durable. To extend the life of your shower tiles, be sure to clean them with the gentlest possible cleaner.
 
 
Articles and Ask the Experts:

Are there any other areas of remodeling and construction that you would like to explore?
  
 
 
Library of Articles:

 
 
Ask the Expert
Name:
Email:
Home Phone:
Cell Phone:
Work Phone:
City:
State:
Question:
 
  Are you an expert?
Apply to become an EveryContractor Expert.
Are you an expert?
Apply to become an EveryContractor Expert.
 
 
Recent Ask the Expert Questions
we had a bad experience with a crew that poured a walkway and driveway for us. The surface is very rough, to the point it hurts to walk on with barefeet! Is there anything we can do (without blasting it out) to help smooth the surface? THanks!!
I need to know how to install a grease trap for a restaurant according to code in Grafton WV
Is there a minimun hydrogen to concrete ratio the must exist in a concrete mixture in order for it to be a viable mixture? If so, what is that ratio and how is it defined or calculated? Thanks, J. Blair Briggs
my ph is good and alk is ok chlorine 10.i had green pool so took sample but the lady never tested just said algae so we treated for algae now my pool has stuff on the bottom and it just looks like huge mud puddle why help please oh and i know their is no iron in the water and the pool size is 18 X 4 ft entex easy set about 7,500 gal water
I live in a 100 year old home with no insulation near Rochester, NY. I have two vastly different price quotes for insulation and air sealing the home (including sealing the rimjoists). The attic is used for storage and could be converted to living space as it has a great floor. This means that I am looking at insulating the underside of the roof as well as the gable ends. One contractor will NOT use closed cell foam because he says it will not handle the expansion and contraction without cracking. The other contractor will not use open cell foam because they say it does not really air seal the space. HELP! I am looking for a 3rd party to help me understand things.
 
Search Contractor Directory
Search our Yellow Page Directory for a Local Contractor:
  
What are you looking for?  ZIP Code
 
 
Are you a quality contractor?
Browse our top categories of articles for valuable insight into the world of residential and commercial construction.
Browse our top categories of articles for valuable insight into the world of residential and commercial construction...read more
Ask the Experts: Do you need help with a home improvement project? Are you designing a new office building?
Do you need help with a home improvement project? Are you designing a new office building?
Click here for more information...
Receive information on current trades shows we will be featured at.
Click here to access our
new beta website and see what's new.