Tillie Doyle
DensShield is a drywall product that can be used when tiling a shower. It has a gypsum core and a waterproof surface, but it requires additional waterproofing at the edges and any penetrations of the waterproof surface. Some people express concern about using DensShield in a wet environment due to its gypsum core, while others have used it successfully. Some sources suggest using a separate waterproofing system, such as RedGard, with DensShield for added protection. It is important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and address any gaps or seams properly to ensure an effective barrier against water. Overall, while DensShield can be used in shower installations, there are varying opinions on its effectiveness and the need for additional waterproofing measures.
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What You'll Learn
DensShield's gypsum core and waterproof surface
DensShield is a drywall product with a gypsum core and a waterproof surface. It is marketed as an appropriate material for building shower installations. The product is widely trusted by industry professionals, with some claiming to have used it for several shower installations without any issues.
However, some people are sceptical about using DensShield in such a wet environment, specifically questioning the trustworthiness of the waterproofing detail. The gypsum core of DensShield requires waterproofing at the edges where the gypsum is exposed and at any penetrations of the waterproof surface. This is a crucial step in the installation process, as any exposed gypsum can be a cause for concern in a high-moisture environment.
DensShield Tile Backer panels have a built-in acrylic coating on one side that stops moisture penetration at the surface. This side should be positioned facing away from the studs, with mortar or mastic applied, and then tiled. While gypsum boards are stronger in one direction, they can be installed either vertically or horizontally on both wood and steel studs.
DensShield is a high-performing fiberglass mat gypsum panel suitable for wall, roof, ceiling, and floor projects. The product has excellent mould resistance, scoring a 10 out of 10 in the ASTM D3273 test method, indicating no mould growth in a 4-week controlled laboratory test. However, it is important to note that the mould resistance of any building product may vary when used in actual job site conditions compared to a controlled laboratory setting.
In conclusion, while DensShield can technically be used to build a shower pan, it is essential to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for waterproofing the exposed gypsum edges and any penetrations of the waterproof surface. Proper installation and good construction practices will ensure increased mould resistance and the best performance of DensShield in a high-moisture environment.
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$299.99 $329.99
The need for separate waterproofing systems
DensShield is marketed as an appropriate material for building shower pans. However, concerns have been raised about its core, which is made of gypsum. While DensShield does have a waterproof surface, this surface does not cover the gypsum core at the edges and penetrations, which need to be waterproofed separately.
One way to address this issue is to use a waterproofing membrane such as RedGard, Hydroflex, or GoldCoat. However, this process can be time-consuming and costly as multiple coats are often required to meet the manufacturer's standards for thickness. Another concern is that DensShield does not address joints adequately, and the manufacturer's recommended method of caulking between panels is not considered sufficient by some professionals.
As an alternative, some people suggest using cement board, which is a more traditional and trusted material for shower installations. However, cement board has its drawbacks, as it can get soggy and flex when exposed to water. Other options include Magnesium Oxide board, which is fireproof and water-proof, or foam boards such as Schluter, Wedi, or GoBoard, which remain 100% waterproof even if the exterior layer is compromised.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use DensShield or another product depends on the specific requirements and budget of the project. While DensShield can be used, it requires careful installation and separate waterproofing systems to ensure its effectiveness in a wet environment.
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Caulking between panels
DensShield is marketed as appropriate for shower installation. However, it requires waterproofing at the edges and any penetrations of the waterproof surface. This includes the seams and corners.
Some people have expressed concern about using DensShield in showers, particularly regarding the need to caulk between panels. One source states that caulking between panels is "just not a good idea".
However, other sources have stated that they have used DensShield in multiple showers without any issues. They recommend taping the joints and waterproofing with products such as Laticrete HydroBan, Red Guard, Hydroflex, GoldCoat, or similar products.
It is important to note that DensShield has a gypsum core and a waterproof surface. This means that it requires additional waterproofing measures, such as taping and applying a waterproofing product, to ensure that it is suitable for use in a shower pan.
When caulking between panels, it is recommended to use silicone to fill in the corners and seams. This will help to create a watertight seal and prevent water from seeping between the panels. It is also suggested to use fiberglass mesh tape and skim the taped joints and corners with a product like THINSET before applying waterproofing.
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Using DensShield with other products
DensShield is marketed as appropriate for shower installation. However, it is not the easiest product to use in making a shower. Its gypsum core and waterproof surface require waterproofing at the edges and any penetrations of the waterproof surface. Some people have expressed concerns about using DensShield in a very wet environment, such as a shower, due to its gypsum core.
DensShield can be used with other products to address these concerns. For example, some people choose to use a separate waterproofing system, such as RedGard, Hydroflex, GoldCoat, or other liquid membranes, with DensShield for added protection. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and to address any gaps or seams between pieces of DensShield.
Additionally, DensShield can be used with Schluter's Kerdi system, which provides a waterproof barrier and is installed over Sheetrock, cement boards, plywood, or MgO board. This system allows for the avoidance of installing a pan and mortar bed. MgO board is also a product that can be used with DensShield. It is water and fireproof, easy to cut, and generates less dust during installation.
Another option is to use DensShield with a polyethylene vapour barrier, as recommended by Energy Star guidelines. However, it is important to note that DensShield instructions state not to install a vapour barrier directly behind it. Instead, properly detailed DensShield will provide an air barrier and a vapour retarder, addressing the deficiencies of fibreglass batt insulation.
When using DensShield in a shower pan, it is essential to have something behind it, such as felt, to direct water to the pan. All joints must be sealed to prevent water from seeping through. Some people have used DensShield with roofing felt, a pre-sloped bed, a membrane, and deck mud to create a shower pan.
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Installation instructions
DensShield is a drywall product that can be used in showers. While it is not the easiest product to install, it can be used to build a shower pan if installed correctly.
To install DensShield in a shower, follow these steps:
Preparation
First, ensure that you have the necessary materials, including DensShield boards, roofing felt, a pre-sloped bed, a suitable membrane, and deck mud. Check that the shower is built correctly, including a pre-slope under the pan liner and no penetrations through the liner below 2" above the top of the curb.
- Tape the joints of the DensShield boards with fiberglass mesh tape. Embed the tape in a skim coat of material used to set tiles, such as THINSET, on all joints and corners that will receive tiles.
- Caulk corners and edges prior to adding the fiberglass mesh tape. Ensure all joints and corners are covered, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply a waterproofing product to the taped joints and corners. Products such as Laticrete HydroBan, Red Guard, Custom, or Māpei are suitable options.
- Install the DensShield boards, ensuring they are kept off any mud or deck mud. Keep the DensShield at least 1 1/2 inches off the membrane.
- If using a shower pan, place the DensShield approximately 2 inches above the deck mud.
- Waterproof all cut sheet ends, plumbing penetrations, and other exposed areas. Do not let water touch the core of the sheets.
- If desired, skim the taped joints and corners with THINSET before applying waterproofing. A 6" putty knife can be useful for this step.
By following these instructions, you can effectively use DensShield to build a shower pan. However, it is important to carefully review the manufacturer's guidelines and industry standards to ensure a proper installation.
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Frequently asked questions
DensShield is marketed as appropriate for shower installation. However, it is not an easy product to use, and there are concerns about its waterproofing capabilities. It is recommended that you use a separate waterproofing system if you plan to use DensShield in a shower or similar wet location.
Some alternatives to DensShield include cement board, Schluter's Kerdi system, and Goboard.
DensShield has a lifetime warranty and is designed as a waterproof substrate. It also has better environmental attributes than some other products.
