Types of Backer Board
There are different types of backer board, and each type is suited for a specific purpose in home construction and tiling work:
1. Tile Backer Board
2. Cement Backer Board
3. Fibre Cement Backer Board
Quick Tips and Practices for Homebuilders using Backer Boards
If you're building your bathroom, kitchen, or utility space, following a few simple practices can help you get better results and avoid common issues.
1. Choose the right backer board
For wet areas like showers and splash zones, cement or fibre cement backer boards are your best fit. They resist moisture and prevent long-term water damage far better than plywood or drywall.
2. Prepare a Flat, Stable Surface
Before tiling, check that your wall or floor is level, dry, and structurally sound. Uneven surfaces can lead to cracked or misaligned tiles over time.
3. Use Corrosion-Resistant Screws
Fix the boards with rust-proof screws to ensure your setup stays secure, especially in humid or moisture-prone zones.
4. Don’t Skip the Waterproofing
Seal every joint using alkali-resistant mesh tape followed by a waterproofing membrane. This critical step helps block moisture from seeping behind your tiles.
5. Avoid Wood-Based Boards in Wet Zones
Skip materials like plywood or drywall in bathrooms or wet kitchens; they absorb moisture, weaken over time, and compromise tile stability.
