My fuse box is located outside my house, backing on the bathtub, ....?

Question

I have removed everything from the bathroom from the floor joists up and replaced the floor. I had to cut the tub out in pieces to remove it and I am just replacing it with a steel tub and tub surround, but the wires behind the back wall worry me. There was no vapor barrier behind the tub the old one was a one piece. Would any one know if vapor barrier and blue dry wall be enough to prevent a bigger problem then I already have run into?

I am including two pictures if they help..

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k1/oceantides0213/Picture021.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k1/oceantides0213/Picture020.jpg

Thanks for your time :)

Answer 1

I vapor barrier and water resistant sheetrock will keep the interior of the walls dry if installed correctly.   And even if moisture were to get into the space, it would not affect the wiring.

  Now is a good time to make sure that your bathroom has all of the proper electric appliances with ample electric service.  You may want to add more outlets, possibly a heater, a bathroom exhaust fan, and of course switched lighting.  It's a good idea to use ground-fault breakers and GFI outlets.  The code calls for them where I live.

Answer 2

The wires shouldn't be a problem, they are probably on a GFCI circuit. You can put plastic up or wrap them if it makes you feel better but using green board and the tub surround should be enough to keep the water on the right side of the wall. Just make sure you have steel plates on the wood studs where ever the wire penetrates the stud so you don't drill into it when attaching your drywall.

Answer 3

I would install a 6 mil plastic barrier before you set the tub on the side where the fuse panel is located.  Moisture resistant sheetrock  is a typical installation behind a tub surround.  Be sure to check caulking periodically.  Moisture resistant sheetrock will still absorb moisture, it just takes a while longer to deteriorate.

Good luck