Backing Board for tile

These days, most tile installations use at least some backing board. The first time I installed backing board was in 1995. It was 1/4″ Wonderboard over a wooden sub-floor. The tile contractor I was working for told me the “backing board is used in lieu of installing a mortar bed”. Installing a mortar bed is more work, therefore we will charge more for that service. In my opinion, a mortar bed is not necessary in most cases. Therefore, it is not worth the extra work or money. On this page, I will discuss the different t backing board options.

Hardibacker and Fiberock

Hardibacker is by far the most popular tile backing board. This board is known to every tile installation contractor in San Diego, and perhaps, this whole country. Hardibacker and Fiberock contain material that is not 100% mold proof. Therefore, should not be used in an area that will stay wet for an extended period of time. It is now common knowledge that Hardibacker should not be installed into the mud pan of a shower. However, installing the Hardibacker above the mud pan it is fine. A shower should not contain Fiberock at all. Fiberock is a poor choice for wet areas.

Wonderboard and Durock

Wonderboard and Durock are true cement boards. These backing boards do not contain any material that is prone to mold. As a result, either of these boards are good to use in a shower. Moreover, Durock or Wonderboard can be installed in a mud pan. I still prefer to float my pan, then install by boards down to it. Every tile contractor is prone to their own specific methods. Every bathroom remodel contractor has their own specific preferences. Some contractors still float everything. If two installers have different ways to do things, it doesn’t mean one is right and one is wrong. We tend to stay loyal to the way we learned, and different people teach different ways. However, some methods are definitely better than others. Just like anything else, there are some good ways and a whole bunch of bad ways to do it.

Denshield

Denshield is a tile backing board that is gaining popularity. This board has a gypsum core. Therefore, you do not want to put it in the mud pan. Whenever I use Denshield, I float everything that is hot mopped, then I install Denshield up from there. Denshield is a quality tile backing board that has a skin that is 100% waterproof. It is made by Georgia Pacific, and they give a lifetime warranty on the product.

Backer Board Installation

In conclusion, there are several tile backing boards to choose from. Make sure the board, whichever kind, is installed by a qualified installer. Remember, the fine details of the installation procedure may vary.

Thank you.