What steps should be taken to address water damage discovered during removal of old tile before installing new tile?
Asked by Jesse Harper 
2 months ago
Last Updated: August 2, 2024
What should we do before putting in the new tile? We discovered some water damage once we took out the old tile.
Let’s take down those walls to the studs and put in some waterproof cement backer board, like Schluter or Wedi. Then we can add some new tile. And while we’re at it, why not swap out the tub too?
Nailed it! That was exactly what I had in mind but wasn’t certain about. Thanks a lot
Hey , this is the plan. When you’re working on it, make sure to switch out the plumbing fixtures. If the tub is in good condition, you can either keep it or have it epoxy painted. Just make sure to install new mixing valve, spout, and shower head.
Why not hire a reliable contractor and compensate them for a job well done?
Remove the walls down to the studs as Sean suggested. Have a certified plumber update anything that needs to be upgraded/replaced before installing new waterproof backer board, and then new tiles. The tub appears to be in need of a makeover too.
If it were me, I’d take out everything. Let it dry and then begin with cement board. There are multiple water barriers they sell, then redo the tiles.
It’s like a DIY community, he doesn’t really want to hire professionals or attempt to renovate the room. I would double-check that the fixtures don’t leak, maybe just bath water seeping into cracks. Fix it up and redo the tiles.
It’s definitely easier to just clear everything out and focus on the stud work. This way, you might also have the chance to upgrade any plumbing if needed.
Then you can use a waterproof and mold-resistant subpanel.
I’m actually in a similar situation right now. I was trying to replace the backsplash in my kitchen, but the tiles were so stuck to the wall that I ended up tearing the whole wall down to the studs – at least where the backsplash used to be.
I’m putting in Hardy board now, which is much thinner than the old plaster wall.
To make sure both surfaces are even, I had to cut 2x4s as furring strips to extend the studs out. Then I mounted the Hardy backer on that, making it level with the old wall.
Let’s just strip it down to the studs and start fresh.
Were there any indications of water leakage before you removed the tiles, or did you only discover it after they were removed?
Stephanie, we noticed signs that indicated a leak, so we had a plumber replace some things a few months back.
Clear out the room completely and begin fresh.
Go ahead and gut it. Everything is finished.
Strip it down to the studs or furring strips in case of block walls. Replace any decayed wood and add 1/2” cement board. Finish by tiling and grouting.
Completely renovate
Remove old tiles by chipping away with a gun, apply cement plaster, and then install new tiles.
I faced a similar situation once, but with plastic tiles. The bottom 3 inches were in bad shape, so I squared off the area, filled it with cement board, waterproofed it, and then tiled. The upper parts were still very sturdy with thick mortar beds.
If the situation is as messy as it seems, consider stripping it down to the studs, carrying out any necessary repairs, and then rebuilding the wall properly. If that means outsourcing the job, go for it.
Remove that old material and replace it with new half-inch cement board
And while you’re at it, you might as well replace the tub