The cement board now has holes, tons of marks, glue, bad wallpaper you name it. Can I place drywall over it in order paint it? I plan to replace the tile from the waist down but on the upper wall I want to paint. Any tips are appreciated.
You could replace it with drywall but use green board so it will fight moisture.I would also use paint for damp areas like enamel and be sure you have a fan so you do not get mildew or have paint lift from too much moisture. I wonder what you will do where the cement board meets the sheetrock ? Won't their be a difference in thickness ?
Fir it out as necessary and re drywall it with green board drywall. It will look much better and be right.
As long as the cement board is not in the tub surround or shower area, you can replace it with blue (mold and water resistant (preferred)), or green (water resistant) drywall. Never use standard drywall in a bathroom or kitchen. The moisture in these two areas can create a mold problem. I recommend you remove the cement board rather than putting the drywall over it. Any electrical outlet or switch junction boxes may have to be repositioned in order to get the switches and receptacles to sit flush with the wall. The other issue is that the closed in pocket between the cement board and drywall could be a moisture trap, especially in the bathroom. That's just asking for trouble. Finally, unless you have experience taping and mudding (finishing) drywall, I suggest you hire a professional to do this for you.
