Cement Board -- Correct Install Method?
 

We are redoing our entire bathroom and want to install a ceramic/porcelain tiled shower to replace the cultured marble panelled shower. This is our first project of this sort.

What is the correct installation method for the cement board?

We are unclear as to whether there needs to be a "first layer" of something (plastic sheeting, greenboard, other) secured to the studs before the cement board is applied.

Or, can the cement board be attached directly to the studs.

All advice appreciated.

right on the studs tape and fill the joints...use fibre tape

This information is wrong.

Cement board is not waterproof, it is resistant to water damage but water or moisture can get threw it. So there should be felt or plastic behind it. Or another option is to waterproof the tile side of the cement board with something like redgard.

And make sure you use the tape that is for backer board, it is alkyid(SP) resistand. And use mortar for the tape, not joint compound.

Thank you very much for the information. We will apply plastic sheeting to the studs before installing the backer board. I'll have to learn more about the "redgard" product.

Don't use both. Use either the plastic under the cement board OR Redgard on top. Redgard is sold at Home Depot, probably in the tile aisle.

I think most pros would tell you that waterproofing on top of the cement board is better practice than using the plastic or the felt paper underneath it. Might as well block the water as close to the source as possible.

An alternative to Redgard for this purpose which many pros here would recommend over it is Kerdi. I would recommend learning about both options.

Thank you. The "topside" option does make sense.

Hey Patricia,

Do you have a Menards or Lowes nearby? If so, you may want to consider Denshield over Cement Board. It is quite a bit easier to install and eliminates the vapor barrier which most likely will cause a mold problem in your wall.

Kevin

I used densheild in my shower and it was easy to install. You then have to tape the seems and then use redgard or similar on the seems and screws.

Click on Facts and Questions, Installation, etc.: http://www.gp.com/BUILD/product.aspx?pid=6388#faqQ_7869

http://www.jameshardie.com/pdf/backe...rison-half.pdf

Be safe, Gary

Thank You Everyone
 

You guys are great.

We are checking out the different types of backer board today. Around here (central Ohio) Loew's is the exclusive retailer for DensShield. HD has some of the others.