What is causing the cracking and peeling, and how can I fix it?
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Above the top edge of my shower surround, at the end where the shower head comes out of the wall, the paint and the coating on the drywall is cracking and peeling off. It's OK at the end away from the shower, and in between there are vertical cracks coming up from the applied sealer at the edge of the surround. Is it too much moisture, poor construction, or something else? How can I fix it?
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Hot, steamy showers can cause the drywall to start peeling from the bathroom walls if the room isn't adequately ventilated. DO you have a fan in the bathroom? Or a window? That could make all the difference. A sealing primer will prevent future moisture penetration. Use joint compound and a spray can of texture to quickly get the wall back in shape. Good luck!
Ventilation is the key. The room needs to breathe and dry out. You'll have to scrape all the loose paint and drywall off. Let the area dry thoroughly. Fill in gaps with joint compound, let dry, sand, prime, then paint. I'd use a paint in either a satin or semi-gloss finish but would also add A-1 Mildewcide to help prevent the build up of mildew/mold. If you don't have a fan, open a window or leave the door open when you shower. Best of luck.
If you have a fan.run it for at least 40 minutes after you shower.
If green or backer board was not used in the shower area it will crack and peel.