Can You Tile On Hardie Board

Can You Tile On Hardie Board?

Hardie board is a popular choice for siding and backer boards due to its durability and resistance to moisture. It is made of cellulose fibers and cement, which makes it strong and weather-resistant.

While Hardie board is a good choice for many applications, it is not ideal for tiling. The surface of Hardie board is not smooth, which can make it difficult to get a good bond with tile. Additionally, Hardie board is not waterproof, so it can be damaged by water if it is not properly sealed.

If you are considering tiling on Hardie board, there are a few things you can do to improve the chances of a successful installation. First, make sure that the surface of the Hardie board is smooth and free of any debris. You can do this by sanding the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Once the surface is smooth, you will need to apply a waterproofing membrane to the Hardie board. This will help to prevent water from penetrating the board and damaging the tile.

Finally, you can install your tile on the Hardie board using a thin-set mortar. Be sure to use a trowel with the appropriate notch size for the size of tile you are using.

If you follow these steps, you can increase the chances of a successful tile installation on Hardie board. However, it is important to note that tiling on Hardie board is not recommended for areas that will be exposed to a lot of moisture, such as showers or bathrooms.

Additional Tips for Tiling on Hardie Board

In addition to the steps outlined above, there are a few other things you can do to improve the chances of a successful tile installation on Hardie board.

Use a backer board that is specifically designed for use with tile.
Make sure that the backer board is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Use a thin-set mortar that is specifically designed for use with tile on Hardie board.
Allow the thin-set mortar to cure completely before grouting the tile.
Seal the grout with a grout sealer to help prevent water from penetrating the grout.

By following these tips, you can increase the chances of a successful tile installation on Hardie board.