Do I Need Cement Board Under Bathroom Tile Wall

Do I Need Cement Board Under Bathroom Tile Wall?

Installing tile in your bathroom is a great way to add style and value to your home. However, before you start tiling, you need to decide whether or not to install cement board underneath. Cement board is a backer board that is made of Portland cement and reinforced with fiberglass mesh. It is used to provide a stable and waterproof surface for tile installation.

There are several benefits to using cement board under bathroom tile. First, it helps to prevent the tile from cracking or breaking. Cement board is a very strong and durable material that can withstand the weight of tile and grout. Second, it helps to waterproof the wall. Cement board is waterproof, which means that it will not absorb water and cause the tile to become loose.

However, there are also some downsides to using cement board. First, it is more expensive than other types of backer board. Second, it is more difficult to install. Cement board is heavy and difficult to cut. Finally, it can be difficult to find cement board in small quantities.

So, do you need cement board under bathroom tile? The answer is yes, if you want to ensure that your tile installation is strong, durable, and waterproof. However, if you are on a budget or if you are not comfortable installing cement board, there are other types of backer board that you can use.

Other Types of Backer Board

There are several other types of backer board that you can use under bathroom tile. These include:

Gypsum board (drywall)
Concrete backer board
Fiberglass backer board
Kerdi board

Each type of backer board has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gypsum board is the least expensive and easiest to install, but it is not as waterproof as cement board. Concrete backer board is very strong and durable, but it is also heavy and difficult to install. Fiberglass backer board is a good compromise between gypsum board and concrete backer board. It is lightweight, easy to install, and waterproof. Kerdi board is a type of waterproof membrane that is applied to the wall before the tile is installed.

The best type of backer board for your bathroom will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are not sure which type of backer board to use, you can consult with a professional tile installer.

Conclusion

Installing cement board under bathroom tile is a great way to ensure that your tile installation is strong, durable, and waterproof. However, if you are on a budget or if you are not comfortable installing cement board, there are other types of backer board that you can use.