Do You Have To Put Backer Board Under Tile

Do You Need a Backer Board Under Tile?

When installing tile, you'll need to decide whether or not to use a backer board. Backer board provides a stable and moisture-resistant base for tile, but it's not always necessary. Here's how to decide if you need a backer board for your tile installation.

When to Use a Backer Board

Backer board is recommended in the following situations:

Installing tile on a wood subfloor
Installing tile in a wet area, such as a bathroom or kitchen
Installing tile over an existing tile floor
Installing tile on a floor that is not perfectly level

Types of Backer Board

There are two main types of backer board:

Cement board is made of cement and sand. It is strong and moisture-resistant, making it a good choice for wet areas.
Concrete board is made of concrete and fiber. It is even stronger than cement board, but it is also more expensive.

Choosing the Right Thickness for Backer Board

The thickness of the backer board you need will depend on the size of the tile you are installing. For tiles that are 12 inches or smaller, you can use a 1/4-inch thick backer board. For tiles that are larger than 12 inches, you should use a 1/2-inch thick backer board.

Installing Backer Board

Once you have chosen the right backer board, you can begin installing it. Here are the steps on how to install backer board:

Prepare the subfloor by making sure it is level and clean.
Cut the backer board to fit the area where you will be installing tile.
Apply thinset mortar to the subfloor and then place the backer board on top of the mortar.
Screw the backer board to the subfloor using backer board screws.
Tape the joints between the backer board panels with mesh tape and thinset mortar.
Allow the thinset mortar to dry completely before installing tile.

Conclusion

Whether or not you need a backer board for your tile installation depends on several factors, including the type of subfloor, the size of the tile, and the location of the installation. If you are installing tile in a wet area or on a wood subfloor, it is best to use a backer board. By following the steps outlined above, you can install backer board correctly and ensure a successful tile installation.