Choosing the right cement board for your shower walls and floors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a bathroom remodel or new construction project. The cement board provides a durable, waterproof backing for tile and prevents moisture damage. After careful research, we’ve determined the best cement board options to consider for your shower installation.
What is Cement Board?
Cement board, also known by brand names like Durock, Hardiebacker, and PermaBase, is a rigid tile backing board made from reinforced concrete. It’s often called a “cementitious board” because of its concrete composition. Cement board is waterproof and designed not to decompose or delaminate when exposed to moisture.
Unlike drywall, cement board won’t break down when exposed to prolonged dampness. This makes it an ideal substrate for wet areas like showers. It provides a stable, durable surface for installing ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tile. Cement board is also fire and mold resistant.
Benefits of Using Cement Board in Showers:
- Waterproof and moisture resistant
- Won’t decompose or disintegrate when wet
- Provides a stable backdrop for tile installation
- Prevents damage from mold and mildew growth
- Fire resistant and noncombustible
- Made from sustainable materials
Tile installed over cement board can withstand decades of use in a shower environment. It’s a permanent wall covering that won’t need replacement like drywall or shower liners. Although more expensive than other backer options, cement board is worth the investment for its longevity and performance.
How to Install Cement Board in Showers
Proper installation techniques are critical when using cement board in showers. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Use moisture resistant drywall screws – Special corrosion resistant screws designed for cement board are required. Standard screws will corrode and compromise the cement board over time.
- Tape and mud seams – After cutting panels to size, cover all seams with fiberglass mesh tape and thinset mortar to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Stagger panel joints – Pieces should be offset to avoid a straight seam line from top to bottom. Staggering boards strengthens the installation.
- Apply waterproof membrane – Coat all surfaces with a waterproofing liquid membrane before tiling. RedGard and Laticrete HydroBan are popular options.
- Allow proper curing time – Let thinset mortar fully cure for 24-48 hours before applying tile or waterproofing.
With the right installation process, cement board will deliver leak-free performance in your shower for decades. Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions as well.
Best Cement Board Options for Showers
Now that you understand the benefits of cement board and how to install it, let’s review the top products to consider for your shower.
Durock Cement Board
Durock is one of the most popular and well-known brands of cement board. Manufactured by USG, Durock consists of a reinforced concrete core sandwiched between fibrous facer sheets.
Benefits:
- Excellent reputation and brand recognition
- Available in multiple sizes and thicknesses
- Can be cut easily with a utility knife
- Features a molded edge to improve finishing
Durock meets strict ANSI standards for cement board performance. It’s proven effective for interior or exterior applications, including high-moisture areas. The 1/2″ thickness provides an ideal backdrop for shower walls and the strength to support floor tile.
Durock cement board is available at home improvement stores or can be special ordered if needed. USG offers a lifetime limited warranty on Durock products.
James Hardie HardieBacker Cement Board
James Hardie HardieBacker is another well-known cement board brand sold at major home centers. It’s commonly used as an underlayment for tile in bathrooms and kitchens.
Features:
- 1/4″ and 1/2″ thickness options
- Mold/mildew resistant surface
- Moisture resistant additives
- Lab tested for superior performance
One advantage of HardieBacker cement board is the option for 1/4″ thickness on walls. The thinner profile makes it lighter and easier to cut and install. It provides the same moisture resistance and durability in a lighter product.
HardieBacker also offers pre-textured patterns to improve thinset adhesion. James Hardie provides a limited lifetime warranty when installation guidelines are followed.
PermaBase Cement Board
National Gypsum manufactures PermaBase brand cement board designed specifically for tile applications. It’s ANSI approved and contains a built-in acrylic coating for extra moisture protection.
Highlights:
- Embedded acrylic coating resists water
- Approved for steam showers and pools
- Lighter weight for easier handling
- Tapered edge for smooth finishing
PermaBase is another excellent choice for shower walls and floors in residential or commercial projects. It can be used for interior and exterior applications. The acrylic coating provides extra moisture resistance compared to competing brands.
Schluter KERDI-BOARD
KERDI-BOARD from Schluter Systems takes cement board a step further by integrating a waterproofing layer. KERDI-BOARD includes an extruded polystyrene core with embedded glass fiber mesh.
Key Features:
- Integrated waterproofing layer
- Lightweight yet extremely durable
- Unmatched tile bonding performance
- Eliminates need for additional membranes
The integrated KERDI waterproofing layer allows you to install KERDI-BOARD and achieve a waterproof shower in a single step. The KERDI membrane ensures no moisture permeates the substrate. KERDI-BOARD simplifies installation compared to typical cement backer requirements.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cement Board
With several excellent cement board brands on the market, how do you choose? Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Application: Is the cement board for floor or wall usage? Floor cement board is thicker and provides more durability. Wall boards can be slimmer.
Water exposure: Determine how much direct water contact the boards will receive. Products like Schluter KERDI-BOARD offer enhanced waterproofing abilities.
Project scope: Larger commercial projects may benefit from PermaBase’s lightweight boards that are faster to install.
Budget: James Hardie HardieBacker tends to be the most budget-friendly option. But all cement boards provide a good value for the performance.
Ease of use: Durock’s molded edges create a smoother finished edge for tiles. KERDI-BOARD combines installation and waterproofing.
Analyze your specific shower project details when selecting cement board materials. An experienced contractor can also recommend the right product.
How to Cut and Install Cement Board in a Shower
Once you select the right cement board, proper installation techniques are critical. Here is an overview of best practices when installing shower cement board:
Cutting Cement Board
- Use a carbide-tipped scoring knife and straightedge to score the board face.
- Snap the panel along the scored line.
- For smaller cuts, a utility knife works well.
- A power saw with a dust collection system can be used for faster cutting.
- Always wear eye and ear protection when cutting cement board.
Installation on Shower Walls
- Start with the bottom row of boards first.
- Attach the bottom edge just above the tub flange using corrosion-resistant screws.
- Place boards horizontally, allowing a 1/8″ gap between them.
- Offset vertical seams between rows.
- Use fiberglass mesh tape and mortar to fill seams.
- Apply waterproofing membrane over all boards.
Installation on Shower Floors
- Fasten boards to floor joists according to manufacturer specs.
- Tape and mud seams between all boards.
- Slope floor towards the drain using mortar bed.
- Allow proper thinset curing time before waterproofing or tiling.
Final Touches
- Avoid placing cement boards directly in the water stream.
- Seal corners and around fixtures with silicone caulk.
- Apply finishing edge trim pieces as desired.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage guidelines. Allowing adequate curing time for thinset mortar is key before exposing boards to moisture.
Tiling Over Cement Board in Showers
Cement board provides an ideal substrate for bonding ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tile. When tiling over cement board:
Select appropriate tile: Avoid delicate tiles prone to cracking or moisture damage. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are good choices.
Use polymer modified thinset: This specially formulated thinset contains polymers that improve adhesion and flexibility.
Check tile spacing: Leave a minimum 1/8″ grout joint between tiles for proper spacing and grout coverage.
Use appropriate grout: Use premixed grout or epoxy grout for best performance in wet areas.
Seal grout and tile: Applying sealant protects porous grout and natural stone from staining.
With proper prep and installation of cement board, tiling a shower is greatly simplified. The cement board provides a permanent waterproof base for tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cement Board in Showers
Many homeowners have additional questions when installing cement board showers. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries:
Does cement board need a vapor barrier?
No, cement board does not require a vapor barrier. The concrete-based board provides moisture and mold resistance. A vapor barrier would be redundant.
Can cement board get wet during installation?
It’s best to keep cement board dry until tile installation. However, brief moisture exposure won’t damage the boards once properly cured and installed.
What thickness of cement board should be used?
1/2″ thick boards provide the best performance for shower walls and floors. Some products offer 1/4″ boards for wall use only.
Can cement board be installed over drywall?
No, cement board should NOT be installed over existing drywall in a shower. It must be fastened securely to studs or floor joists.
Is thinset mortar required for cement board seams?
Yes, thinset helps bonds cement board panels and provides extra moisture protection at seams. Mesh tape must also be embedded.
How long does cement board installation take?
The time varies based on installer experience and project size. But cement board can generally be installed faster than many shower system alternatives.
Key Takeaways on Best Cement Boards for Showers
Cement backer board is the ideal underlayment for shower walls and floors. When properly installed and paired with tile, it delivers waterproof performance for decades.
Choosing the right cement board brand is key. Top options include Durock, HardieBacker, PermaBase, and Schluter’s KERDI-BOARD. Consider your project scope and budget when deciding.
Allowing thinset mortar to fully cure is crucial before waterproofing and tiling. Follow all manufacturer guidelines for proper usage and warranty coverage. A contractor can ensure correct installation.
Investing in quality cement board will provide homeowners with a mold and leak-free shower environment for years to come. Protecting your home with the right waterproof cementitious backer board is worth the upfront cost and effort.
As experienced tile installation and remodeling experts, we’re happy to address any additional questions about selecting and installing cement backer boards in showers. Feel free to reach out and discuss your upcoming bathroom project. We’re here to help make your shower tile installation a success from start to finish.
Conclusion
Cement backer board remains the gold standard substrate for showers. When properly selected and installed, it delivers leakproof performance other substrates can’t match. Brands like Durock, HardieBacker, and Schluter KERDI-BOARD give homeowners proven options to consider. Following manufacturer guidelines ensures the cement board will provide water protection for the life of the tiles. Investing in a quality cement board allows you to avoid moisture damage and enjoy a beautiful tiled shower environment for decades to come. We hope this overview helps narrow down the best cement board choice for your next bathroom project.
So in summary:
- Cement board is a moisture proof substrate for wet areas like showers
- Top brands include Durock, HardieBacker, PermaBase and KERDI-BOARD
- Proper thinset installation and curing is crucial
- Cement board won’t deteriorate or decompose from prolonged moisture
- It provides a stable base for installation of ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tiles
- When cement board best practices are followed, you get a waterproof shower for decades
Let us know if you have any other questions!
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