Overview
Here, we compare three common shower installation methods:
- Renoduck Method: Properly installed DensShield with full waterproofing (sealed joints, corners, and screw penetrations).
- Improper DensShield Installation: DensShield without waterproofing at seams, screws, or corners.
- Green Drywall Installation: Using moisture-resistant drywall (greenboard) instead of a proper backer board.
Comparison Table
Aspect | Renoduck (DensShield + Full Waterproofing) | Improper DensShield (No Waterproofing) | Green Drywall (Moisture-Resistant Drywall) |
Waterproofing | Fully sealed seams, corners, and screw penetrations prevent water intrusion | DensShield surface is waterproof, but unsealed seams and screws allow water infiltration | Water-resistant paper layer; gypsum core absorbs moisture over time |
| Expected Lifespan | 25+ years (matches tile lifespan) | 5-10 years (moisture weakens board at joints) | 1-3 years (fails due to water absorption) |
Mold & Mildew Resistance | No moisture infiltration prevents mold growth | Mold develops at seams and screw penetrations | High risk of mold growth due to water retention |
| Structural Integrity Over Time | Remains strong, preventing tile detachment | Edges and seamsdeteriorate, leading to tile failure | Gypsum softens and crumbles, causing wall collapse |
Maintenance Costs | Minimal—long-lasting installation with low risk of failure | Medium—early repairs needed at seams and joints | High-frequent mold removal and full replacement required |
Installation Complexity | More labor-intensive due to waterproofing steps, but provides maximumlongevity | Easier and fasterinstallation, but longevity is compromised | Simplest install but completely unsuitable for wet areas |
Code Compliance | Meets and exceeds industry standards (TCNA, ANSI, IRC) | Partially compliant, but fails to meet best practices | No longer accepted for showerinstallations by mostbuilding codes |
Failure Timeline
1-3 Years
- Renoduck: No issues; full waterproofing prevents failures.
- Improper DensShield: Water intrusion at seams starts weakening board; mold may appear.
- Green Drywall: Water saturation causes mold growth, swelling, and breakdown of gypsum core.
3-5 Years
- Renoduck: Still performing as new; no structural damage.
- Improper DensShield: Tile detachment in high-exposure areas due to moisture damage.
- Green Drywall: Major failure; softening walls, tile falling off, mold spread.
10+ Years
- Renoduck: Still intact, matching tile lifespan.
- Improper DensShield: Significant repair or full replacement required.
- Green Drywall: Long-failed, requiring complete gut renovation.
Conclusion
Using DensShield with full waterproofing (Renoduck method) ensures maximum shower lifespan, prevents mold growth, and eliminates costly repairs. Improper installation of DensShield without waterproofing significantly shortens its durability, while green drywall is completely unsuitable for shower environments.
Investing in proper waterproofing protects homeowners from expensive future repairs and ensures long-term performance. Renoduck’s installation method provides industry-best protection for shower enclosures, making it the most reliable choice.
Recommendation
Only install DensShield with full waterproofing (sealed seams, corners, and screw penetrations) to guarantee a shower lifespan of 25+ years with zero moisture-related failures.