What Options are Available for Tile Backer Boards?

The use of backer board in tile projects is common these days. It is a thin sheet used as a base for laying tiles. It provides a stable, durable, and waterproof base for tile installation. It works as an underlayment beneath your tiles.

Your tile placer and contractor both will recommend that you should use backer board between subfloor and the layer of tiles.

Cement Backer Board Options –

• Foam Board
• Self-Leveling Underlayment
• Uncoupling Membrane
• Dry Pack Mortar
• Glass Mat
• Gypsum Boards

These boards are available from renowned brands and third-party manufacturers, and there is no much difference in their quality. So, you can use either.

Cement board, foam backer board, and glass mat/board are the most popular backer board options.

Cement Backer Board has three layers of material. The outer layers are made from fiberglass and the layer in-between is made from solid Portland cement.

As the outer layers are fiberglass, which is a waterproof material, it is pronounced ideal and highly recommended for floor and walls projects in wet and watery areas like bathroom and kitchen.

Foam Backer Board is light in weight and enables simple installation. It is waterproof too. So, it can also be used in bathrooms and kitchens. However, it may not be a good choice for heavy traffic floors.

Likewise, glass mat provides ease of installation. It is super easy to cut and install. It works better when it comes to resisting water and moisture. However, it may not be as strong as cement backer board.

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