Installing Beadboard in Bathroom
Installing beadboard in a bathroom adds a classic looks that's hard to beat. This project can be done be done on an existing bathroom or during a gut job. In my case, I was doing a gut job.
Beadboard Types: There are a variety of beadboard types. Everything including beadboard wallpaper, thin beadboard planking that installs over drywall, to solid wood. I chose solid wood for durability. I usually stay away from MDF (think particle board) products especially for a bathroom where moisture is present and can degrade this type of material. The beadboard I used was 1x6 tongue and groove solid pine. This means the actual dimensions are 3/4" x 5 1/2" in thickness and width. Typically, this type of beadboard stock has two faces - one with a double bead down the center and the other with no bead. It can be installed with either face out. I chose to install the double bead side out.
Power Tools for Beadboard Installation
TOOLS Power Tools Needed
- Powered miter saw
- Table saw
- Nail gun
- Router and table
Here's the steps for installing the beadboard.
Steps To Install Beadboard in Bathroom
STEP 1 Remove Drywall and Add Nailing Boards
First, the walls are stripped down to the studs and horizontal nailing boards are installed. You'll need these because the width of the beadboard pieces are much less than the spacing between the studs.
STEP 2 Fit and Nail Beadboard
Cut the beadboard pieces to length using your power miter saw. Fit the tongue and groove joints together as you go. For inside corners, a simple butt joint is fine. Add a little glue to the butt joint before nailing to keep the joint closed over time.
STEP 3 Miter Outside Corners
For outside corners, use your table saw to cut a 45 degree edge on these pieces. Glue and nail these joints together.
STEP 4 Install Drywall
After all the beadboard is in place, install the upper drywall pieces. Butt the drywall down to the top of the beadboard. Don't worry if there are small gaps at the drywall joint at the beadboard, this will be covered with a trim piece later.
STEP 5 Install Top Cap Trim
For my beadboard cap, I used a two-piece trim cap. First I used my table saw to rip a piece of solid pine 1x2 stock to for the depth of the cap I wanted. You can chose whatever depth you want. Next I used my router to round over the top cap piece. Then this top cap trim piece was installed around the entire top of the beadboard mitering at the corners.
STEP 6 Install Lattice Trim
Finally, I used a standard piece of solid pine lattice to trim out the bottom of the cap.
STEP 7 Fill Nail Holes Prime & Paint
Before painting, fill nail holes, sand, and prime.
Done!