What Is The Best Backer Board For Shower Walls

What Is The Best Backer Board For Shower Walls?

When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right backer board for your shower walls. Backer board is a type of building material that is installed behind the tile to provide a smooth, waterproof surface for the tile to adhere to. There are a variety of different backer boards on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So, how do you choose the best backer board for your shower walls? ### Types of Backer Board There are three main types of backer board: *

Cement board

is made from a mixture of cement and sand. It is the most durable type of backer board and is resistant to water, mold, and mildew. However, cement board is also the heaviest and most expensive type of backer board. *

Gypsum board

is made from a mixture of gypsum and paper. It is less durable than cement board, but it is also lighter and less expensive. Gypsum board is not waterproof, so it is not suitable for use in wet areas such as showers. *

Fiberglass mat

is made from a layer of fiberglass mesh that is coated with a polymer resin. It is lightweight and easy to install, but it is not as durable as cement board or gypsum board. Fiberglass mat is also not waterproof. ### Which Type of Backer Board Is Best for Shower Walls? The best type of backer board for shower walls is cement board. Cement board is the most durable and waterproof type of backer board, and it is the only type of backer board that is recommended for use in wet areas. ### How to Install Backer Board Installing backer board is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure a proper installation. 1.

Prepare the wall.

The first step is to prepare the wall by removing any old tile or fixtures. The wall should be clean and free of any dirt or debris. 2.

Cut the backer board.

Once the wall is prepared, you can cut the backer board to size. Backer board is typically sold in 3-foot by 5-foot sheets. 3.

Install the backer board.

The backer board can be installed using either screws or nails. If you are using screws, be sure to use galvanized screws to prevent rust. 4.

Tape the seams.

Once the backer board is installed, you need to tape the seams between the sheets. This will help to prevent water from seeping through the seams. 5.

Apply a waterproofing membrane.

Once the seams are taped, you need to apply a waterproofing membrane over the backer board. This will help to protect the backer board from water damage. ### Conclusion Choosing the right backer board for your shower walls is an important decision. Cement board is the best type of backer board for shower walls because it is durable, waterproof, and resistant to mold and mildew. Installing backer board is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure a proper installation.