Shower Tile Backer Board Install

Once demolition of the old tile is complete install a cement backer board in the shower area image 1.

Shower tile backer board install.

When it comes to installing a tile backer board the easiest to install is usually the worst choice or most expensive option. First changes in humidity make solid wood shrink swell and cup more than plywood. For most shower walls the drywall installed in the home during the building phase is cut off at the edge of the shower opening and then backer board is installed in place of the drywall in the wet areas. I often get questions on what sort of tile backer board to use for showers and tub surrounds.

All the insider information on how to build and waterproof a. The best method is to refasten the subfloor then add a layer of plywood. Anyone can enjoy the benefits of a cement board shower system if you follow these 3 easy steps. The backer boards are usually around a one half inch thick in both cases.

For the vertical layout begin your pattern at the top of the wall so there ll be full uncut tile at the top. In our project the shower pan is poured concrete image 2. How to install backer board in a shower 1. Unlike wood or drywall sub surfaces cement backerboard will not rot warp or grow mold and mildew when exposed to water.

In showers the standard substrate is tile backer also called cement board or cement backer board. There is no need to install backer board on a concrete substrate ceramic tile can be applied right over concrete provided the surface is flat smooth and free of significant cracks. If so adjust your layout to have wider tile on the sides. Never install new tiles over existing tiles or onto an unprotected wood or plywood floor.

For highly wet areas such as showers and bathtub surrounds cement board typically is attached directly over the wall studs and the studs may be covered with an intervening moisture membrane. Decide the best way to install the board on your shower walls. Vertical or horizontal placement doesn t matter. Ceramic and porcelain tile more than almost any other surface material needs a stable flat flex free substrate.

According to backer board manufacturers and tile setters installing backer board directly over an old solid wood subfloor is risky for a couple of reasons. Have a professional install a shower membrane and shower pan appropriate for the space. Whenever installing tile in any area of your house you need a special substrate or base layer. Whenever you re laying tile on a wood subfloor you need to first install cement backerboard to prevent leaks and water damage.