Do You Use Backerboard For Bathroom Floor Tile

Here s how to choose the best tile backer board for your project.

Do you use backerboard for bathroom floor tile. This is not true. Never install new tiles over existing tiles or onto an unprotected wood or plywood floor. Slaking time may vary by brand so be sure to read and follow the manufacturer s instructions. With the plywood in place install the backer board as you normally would.

Redgard would be another. It is used on flooring installations as a means of creating a stable and easier to work with subfloor. The membrane would have to be a crack isolation membrane a118 10 and also a waterproofing membrane. Required tools for this project.

Have the necessary tools for this diy project lined up before you start you ll save time and frustration. When backer board is selected as a floor tile underlayment and is installed correctly it provides an excellent substrate for tile in kitchens entries foyers bathrooms and more. Since plywood is often used as an underlayment for floor tile some do it yourselfers may believe that it can also be used in shower wall applications. Tile needs to be installed on a backer board to keep the assembly stiff otherwise the assembly will flex at the grout joints allowing water to seep behind the tile and rot the substructure.

If you don t allow the mixture to slake it won t stick to tiles or backer board. Unlike wood or drywall sub surfaces cement backerboard will not rot warp or grow mold and mildew when exposed to water. Make sure to tape the seams and corners of the backer board according the manufacturer recommendations. To avoid building up the floor too high you can use 1 4 in thick backer board instead of 1 2 in.

Nobleseal ts is one example. Otherwise you could use a membrane over the backer board walls similar to how you would go over a concrete floor that has cracks in it. Some homeowners believe that painting or priming plywood will render it suitable to use as shower tub backer board. Doesn t deteriorate when wet.

It is also used in shower and tub enclosures or anywhere with significant wetness issues as a means of helping to create a moisture barrier. Cement backer board is a mineral based pre fabricated wall unit usually 1 4 inch or 1 2 inch thick and 3 feet by 5 feet long. Backer board is usually a simpler way to go than plywood. This guide will teach you how to properly lay cement backerboard and use mortar to secure and level your subfloor before installing tile.