I have removed the old tile from around our whirlpool tub and have had a problem with the sheetrock. Some areas of the rock have come off with the tile ( all 3 sides of the tub) creating a huge problem. What would you suggest doing.
Thanks for your help. I really enjoy reading what others are doing.
Steve

Hi Steve ... glad the site is helpful.
Your best solution is to remove the existing drywall and replace with cement board.
Drywall isn't acceptable for wet areas and shouldn't have been used there.

Maybe someone will show more mercy and suggest something involving less labour.

would'nt plywood work (1/2") then redgard it (waterproof membrane?)

I'm pretty sure redgard is not recommended for any type of wood substrate. Only drywall or CBU.

Harry,
I have the sheetrock removed and replaced with Cement board. Do I now use thin set, and is this also what I use to set the tile with?
Has you well know with the replys I have received, you have a great web site.
Thanks

yes, now that the cement board is up, patch the seams w/ thin-set, check your surfaces for plumbness and levelness, fix any out of wack areas w/ more mortar mixed stiff and use a wet, clean trowel to smooth it over. You can sand bumps and ridges after it dries. I would get a small bucket of waterproofing rubber and waterproof the tubdeck surface and up the walls 16" or so. Waterproof over the front edge to the floor if that is to be tiled also. Set your tiles w/ thin-set and take your time laying it out, tub decks are pretty wacky to lay out when you try to line up all the joints w/out having small cuts.

Thanks for the comment Steve ... it's a joint effort with many of the pros willing to share their time and experience.
Bradley has you covered .... make sure to use fiber-mesh tape when you mud the seams with modified mortar.

Harry and Team
I have done exactly what you and your team have suggested for my tub tile work, and it looks just like I had hoped it would. GREAT!!! Thanks fpr all your help! My next project is the shower area, so I'll be talking to you later with many more ?'s.
Steve