- Sep 2, 2008
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First, seal the crack in the tub. Nothing can get fixed if water is still leaking. Do some research on the internet to see what to use, I'm sure they make a product exactly for this.
Second, You need to replace the soft drywall and baseboard. Even if you can't see mold, the spores ARE in there. I suggest pulling the tub out from the wall to see what's back there. You may need to replace the drywall behind it. You don't have to do the whole wall, I'd say go up to a few inches below the window, and all the way from the corner to the far end of the window. While the tub is pulled out, bleach the heck out of everything behind the drywall, and let it dry well. Use a dehumidifier if you have one or can borrow one. You should be able to find DIY sites to help you do this on your own. Then it only costs time and supplies. Also, there are mold/mildew resistant paints which may be a good idea since you will have to paint again after replacing the wall.
Third, you should really install a fan in the ceiling to pull out humid air. Since you have a history of dampness, I'd suggest running it during and after every bath and shower.
All this stuff may take a few weeks, but you can do it on your own and on the cheap. That looks like a wonderful bathroom and I'd hate to see you have to rip everything out if the problem got worse.
Good luck!
Second, You need to replace the soft drywall and baseboard. Even if you can't see mold, the spores ARE in there. I suggest pulling the tub out from the wall to see what's back there. You may need to replace the drywall behind it. You don't have to do the whole wall, I'd say go up to a few inches below the window, and all the way from the corner to the far end of the window. While the tub is pulled out, bleach the heck out of everything behind the drywall, and let it dry well. Use a dehumidifier if you have one or can borrow one. You should be able to find DIY sites to help you do this on your own. Then it only costs time and supplies. Also, there are mold/mildew resistant paints which may be a good idea since you will have to paint again after replacing the wall.
Third, you should really install a fan in the ceiling to pull out humid air. Since you have a history of dampness, I'd suggest running it during and after every bath and shower.
All this stuff may take a few weeks, but you can do it on your own and on the cheap. That looks like a wonderful bathroom and I'd hate to see you have to rip everything out if the problem got worse.
Good luck!