Hardibacker vs durock vs densshield. Not Cement Board or Hardibacker, they absorb water.

Hardibacker vs durock vs densshield First, I am trying to make smooth transition from my backer to sheetrock…what is the best way to make up the 1/8” thickness difference between the 5/8 Nov 19, 2009 · Just wondering what everyones opinion on waterproofing tiled shower walls (w/ acrylic pan) was. The unique construction (an outer grey heat Mar 3, 2007 · All times are GMT -6. Jan 24, 2023 · Choosing a cement-based backer board can be pretty challenging, especially if you're torn between two quality options such as Hardiebacker and Durock. It is a little more challenging to install and can often require two people to lift the heavy boards. I was planning on using hardibacker w/Kerdi but it seems that denseshield would save me some prepwork. You just need to seal and penetrations like screws (with redguard), plumbing (Schluter fittings work well) and seams between the sheets (mesh tape/thinset then redguard over). Fibercement backer boards have reinforcement throughout the core but no differential facings. I actually prefered the I suspect you'll find that if you factor waterproofing costs for durock, against denshield you'll find the cost discrepancy is marginal. If installed correctly, it will protect framing when tile/grout leaks. Feb 17, 2011 · Hello, Last year I remodeled my son's bathroom and used cement durock boards for walls and floors for tiling. The time now is 05:41 AM. So, overall, Durock is less expensive than HardieBacker. I have the choice of cement board or Hardibacker for the walls. Jan 26, 2014 · Hi, I am remodeling my shower area and I am down to the studs. The schluter installs both had niches. HardieBacker is a non-aggregate based product from James Hardie, the same company that makes HardiePlank siding. DensShield features a gypsum core with a waterproof surface. The special moisture-resistant, treated core—covered front and back by fiberglass mats— is lighter than the leading cement board brands (based on 1⁄29 [12. They tend to go with what they know, which can create a product bias. I kind of always had it in my head that cement board is what would be needed. HardieBacker is made of cement and sand, offering strength and moisture resistance. This article is to examine Hardiebacker and Durock and help you decide between them. Need Answers or Advice for your DIY Jan 16, 2016 · Initial thoughts on the Goboard vs regular cememt board or Denshield is I like it! I was able to carry 3 sheets (3’x5′) up the stairs with 1 hand. Durock vs Wonderboard vs Hardibacker HardieBacker is a fiber-cement tile backer board, Durock is cement with fiberglass backer, and WonderBoard-Lite is also a fiberglass-reinforced cement board but contains expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads. One wall will have decent sized tiles (12”x24”). Densshield "Is" a moisture barrier already. HardieBacker When it comes to strength, adhesion, and moisture protection, both DensShield and HardieBacker are forces to be reckoned with. I’ll break down their features, weigh their pros and cons, and share real-world insights from my own tiling adventures. The fiberglass mesh and other aggregates in Durock® boards make it heavier than Hardie® Backer Boards and more challenging to install. HardieBacker – My favorite backer board The other main type is what I call the "Hardie" type. You do not need to add any additional waterproofing to the field of the sheets. We did a job that had 2'x4' tiles all the way down to mosaic strip tiles like Bliss linear. Also considering Certaineed fiber cement board and Permabase cement board I'm in the process of installing Georgia-Pacific DensShield tile backer material in the bathroom so I can install tile later. I went to HomeDepot and salesman recommended me Feb 1, 2023 · Hi - I'm redoing my bathroom and want to put cement board around the walls 4' high for wall tile. Opinions? Apr 26, 2005 · Wall and Flooring Indoor Tiling - Hardibacker and DensShield tile backer - I'm taking a ceramic tile workshop and the teacher, who only claims to be a journeyman level tile setter, he is really a home remodeler turned schools system carpenter who also teaches in adult education. While both of these brands offer products that are highly raved about by users, each brand does have their own features that set them apart from each other. Hardibacker provides a robust and smooth surface, perfect for precise tile installations. Wondering what the tile pros prefer to use? May 2, 2023 · Hardibacker vs Durock One of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a tile project is the type of backer board. Sep 27, 2024 · DensShield is one common brand. But once you are sure about your goals and how you want to get the work done, you’re halfway there. Keep in mind thinset does not sand like sheetrock mud so kep things smooth. I install it, tile guy liquid waterproofs screw heads and does cbu tape on seams and then waterproofs that. Durock comes down to contractor preference. Hardiebacker boards? I’m looking at getting drywall and tile quotes for my master bedroom remodel that includes a bathroom. I've installed a new tub and want to tile the tub alcove. HardieBacker and WonderBoard for your bathroom renovation. But for the walls above the pan, do you prefer Durock or Hardibacker, and why? Thanks. The thing to be very careful about is Durock and Hardi are very dry and will suck the moisture out of the thinset used to bond the Kerdi to them. Kerdiboard is expensive and backerboard is cheap. Durock vs. Both materials ensure durability and strength, catering to different project needs. DenShield tile backer in a large custom shower- 6′-0 x 6′-0 with two rain hoods in the ceiling and 10 body sprays, two mixing valves, and one hand held nozzle. I'm trying to determine whether Hardiebacker or Durock is the correct choice for this application - is one better than the other? And as a follow-up, does wall board rest on the plywood? or Jul 23, 2010 · This will be a fully tiled floor to ceiling shower surround, floor, and curb. I have opened walls and literally seen water dripping off the back side of durock used in a shower. Durock and other concrete boards allow moisture to pass through and have to be sealed completely with membrane if used. If you are installing tiles in your home, this board can promote better adhesion and ensure the tiles last for a long without coming off or breaking. In case of showing creativity and doing something fancy on the bathroom panel, Kerdi-board is the best option. The drywall company that came today says they only put up the Denssheild product in wet areas, and don’t work with cement board. Jan 14, 2010 · Project is a small 6 X 9 bathroom, complete remodel. It's cheaper than combined Blue Board + membrane application. Dec 24, 2010 · The most common example is GP’s DensShield. . DensShield has a waterproof surface and water-resistant core. Densshield vs cement backer? I'm doing my first tilework at my home. When I did the other bath I used Kerdi board for my shower tile backer, great product but damn expensive. DensShield is impermeable. What’s the Difference: Common Tile Backerboards HardieBacker, Durock, and DensShield each has characteristics that affect where it can be installed and how tile is placed on it. Jul 10, 2025 · In this article, I’m comparing DensShield and Durock, two heavyweights in the tile backer world, to help you decide which is best for your next renovation. Reply reply Mar 9, 2024 · Final Words DensShield vs. DENSSHIELD VS KERDI BOARD - BATHROOM - SHOULD THE BACKER BOARD … 2021-10-09 Cement board, wedi board, kerdi board, hardibacker, densshield, durock, permabase, or wonder board. Dec 17, 2011 · DensShield v. Durock Best product for tiling in wet areas by far is Denshield. Some folks use a damp sponge to do this. Is it as effective? I am a framing carpenter with a modest background doing tile work so would I am building a shower which will have ceramic tile walls. The TCNA (Tile Council of North America) specifies standards for proper substrate preparation, highlighting the importance of selecting the right material. Happy for a link to another thread if anyone has one. I was considering using Hardibacker, but have heard that Densshield is easier to use. Last use was Durock. Would like to try 1/2" DensShield as a backerboar on the floor because it looks so easy to use. The fastener issue sounds like use of incorrect fasteners and over-driving them. It was tested under controlled laboratory conditions to demonstrate resistance to mold growth in compliance with SDTM Standard d 6329-98 and ASTM D 3273. Cement board can be found under this generic name, as well as brand names like Durock and Hardie Board. Durock offers superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for wet areas. Aug 27, 2022 · DensShield was the first tile backer named by GreenGuard as a microbial-resistant product. Both board types are highly water resistant, but the DensShield tile backer achieves this with a vapor-resistant outer layer, while Durock has its cement slurry core treated. Engineered to prevent damage to the sub-floor or wall cavity if moisture seeps through grouted tile, DensShield® Tile Backer is the first backer board with a built-in moisture barrier. Feb 24, 2023 · Georgia-Pacific Building Products’ DensShield Tile Backer is a mold-resistant tile backer board with fiberglass-mat facings and a unique acrylic coating that blocks moisture from entering the board. Ease of… Cement board with redgard vs kerdiboard For those of you who have seen my last post, you'll know that I now am starting over with my tile shower! I found a tile contractor I like, and he is indifferent between cement board with Redgard or kerdiboard. In the past, I have found Wonderboard messy and difficult to trim. Because of this, picking the ideal backer board for your project can significantly affect its outcome. I am going to put new walls with tiles around tub and shower and new tiled floor. You will notice that these two options often look the same and have similar applications. I decided to go with cement board to close my shower (for good reasons), and today I'm gonna shower you how to install it. Hardiebacker […] Material Composition DensShield and HardieBacker are popular choices for tile backer boards. Both materials offer durability, but each has unique qualities suitable for different tiling projects. DensShield looks a lot like sta Feb 27, 2025 · We've included this extensive comparison to help you decide between Durock vs. Mostly I am wondering about the relative merits of Durock, HardieBacker, and DensShield for two tub surrounds and two showers I am building. I am considering the following alternatives I’ve done one bath surround with hardibacker and laticrete (competitor to red guard), one Schluter shower with an acrylic pan and one schluter tub surround. Naturally, your top concern is to install the tiles correctly so they will last many years. Would greatly appreciate it if someone can break it down to me: what's the difference (quality, performance, price, ease to work with) between Densshield vs. Using ceramic tile on floor, not the shower. Although, when pitting fiber cement board against glass mat gypsum board, the latter arguably comes out on top. HardieBacker – My favorite backer board The other main type is what I call the “Hardie” type. Feb 13, 2007 · Thanks in advance. May 30, 2022 · DensShield was created to act as a tile backer board. Feb 17, 2018 · SUBSCRIBE Learn how tile the right way Cement backer boards have been a popular choice for showers for a very long time, and are probably still the most common type of board installed in a shower Aug 30, 2023 · Hardibacker and Durock are two popular options, known as tile backer boards, that provide the support your tiles need to stand the test of time. Not Cement Board or Hardibacker, they absorb water. Dec 29, 2015 · Which shower tile backer board is best? Cement board, Wedi board, Kerdi board, Hardibacker, Densshield, Durock, Permabase, or Wonder board Apr 8, 2021 · DensShield Vs. for tile backer, he recommends 1) Sep 27, 2019 · I use densshield for tub/shower and shower walls. Durability And Strength Durock and Hardibacker are both excellent choices for tile backer boards. In my experience it's a wash since the backer board is costlier to install and waterproof. Apr 4, 2025 · Made from Portland cement and reinforced with a fiberglass mesh, Durock cement boards are known to be sold in both ¼ inch, ½ inch thick boards, and ⅝ inch thick panels. On the other hand, DensShield can give you a quick and Oct 22, 2021 · Oftentimes, the choice between PermaBASE cement board vs. tape the seam with durock tape and use thinset to mud the seam area as you would a sheetrock joint. Jul 27, 2021 · Getting ready to redo my second bathroom, complete gut job with a new tiled shower. Jun 6, 2023 · The standard sheet size for cement board is smaller than DensShield (and other gypsum-based products) due to its significant weight. Durock and Hardiebacker are two different brands of cement backer boards used in rooms that are susceptible to moisture buildup. DensShield® Tile Backer is designed for use as a substrate for tile walls, ceilings, countertops and commercial and residential floor applications in high moisture areas. Feb 26, 2022 · Durock and Hardiebacker are two manufacturers of cement-based backer boards. Jan 24, 2023 · Hardiebacker vs WonderBoard: Are they the same? The final verdict would be that these cement backer boards cannot be described as identical, even though they have many similarities. May 2, 2019 · I have heard various people say Durock is far more superior than Hardiebacker, but it seems to me that hardiebacker doesn’t chip as much and particulates don’t break off. Sep 7, 2023 · Durock is both heavier and more durable than DensShield. Similarities of DensShield and Cement Board Contractors and retailers use this term when referring to generic backer boards manufactured by unknown companies or when referring to no backer board brands in particular. For fastening I did both cement board screws and 1-1/2″ roofing nails. x 8 ft. Pluses and minuses to each? I used cement board for the floor that I installed granite tile on, but unsure which to choose for the shower walls. 7 mm] comparison). x 4 ft. Oct 19, 2023 · Confused about the types of cement backer boards? Learn the difference between two of the most popular options - HardieBacker vs Durock. But is there any silver lining that sets one apart from its counterpart? We will see in this article. Aug 27, 2004 · The cement board shimmed out the 1/4" will come close to matching up but plaster walls have a tendancy to not be perfect so mudding will become necessary. It cuts wonderfully! Sharp knife and a straightedge give great cuts. Cement board yes. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. To me, it comes down to I have a couple of tile projects coming up and am looking for some advice about various backer-boards. HardieBacker […] 1/4" BACKERBOARD COMPARISON CHART with MoldBlockTM Technology Durock® Board and Durock® Next Gen WonderBoard® PermaBase® DensShield® Board Feb 8, 2018 · Walls and Ceilings - Durock vs DensShield - I'm installing an acrylic shower base and would like some advice on the backer board around the shower. Oct 23, 2025 · Durock from USG is a slightly lighter weight version of comparable construction methods. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of hardibacker vs durock is vital for achieving long-lasting results. The board is lightweight, making installation easier. Seal joints with tape and waterproofing and crack prevention membrane. The tile layout is pretty intricate, with multiple trim pieces. Durock with ardex sk tape and a roll on membrane has virtually no build up. Jun 25, 2008 · Durock cement board is formed in a continuous process of aggregated portland cement slurry with polymer-coated, glass-fiber mesh completely encompassing edges, back and front surfaces. It is much lighter and easier to cut than cementitious boards. Oct 31, 2017 · About This Product The DensShield 1/2 in. Generally, it comes down to contractor preference as to which kind of product they will go with on a job. I know that the pan area has to be propertly waterproofed, etc. As long as the studs are no more than 16 on center 1/2" densshield is solid after taping seams. Unfortunately due to the global supply problems I only have a few options for backer and waterproofing membrane. Dec 23, 2012 · Durock from USG is a slightly lighter weight version of comparable construction methods. I really like the ease of cutting the foam board, but working with the band and thin set on the seams and fasteners is a learning curve. Of course I'll be tiling it, but I would like to know if I should install Durock or DensShield (both are available here). Both are approved fasteners. This year I am planning to remodel my bathroom. I have been reading threads here but can't seem to find a comprehensive comparison. Hardie® aside, other popular backer board options include Durock®, Fiberock®, DensShield®, WonderBoard®, and Wedi. It is easier to cut than cement board, it is mold resistant, and it has a built-in moisture barrier. I have two questions. So, when it comes to Durock vs Hardiebacker, which one is the best? Durock is great for indoor and outdoor use but challenging to cut and Sep 4, 2023 · Discover the 9 key differences between DensShield vs Durock, two popular options for tile backer board, and choose the best fit for your upcoming project. My question is this: advantages or disadvantages of Durock vs. Dean, our tile consultant, says glass mat backer board is his first choice due to the ease of installation, cost, and because his workers like it. The HO is an interior designer. The board has a moisture barrier built-in and is approved for wet areas such as tubs or showers. Therefore the cementitious boards have to be kept very moist prior to troweling on that thinset. Densshield no. If a particular contractor likes one product over the other, they are more likely to use it more often, which results in product bias. KERDI-BOARD is not an easy comparison and requires more understanding to take the final decision. The backer board is also suitable for use in dry applications or as a substrate for other material. Kerdiboard doesnt have a fire rating but cementitious backer boards do. Backer Board is an ideal substrate for ceramic tile installation. lhpc vvpdf yqedjk ejcgwh oxzk tneh pmv fhf qnrjk qwdili csoe topbhn nrjpxeke nllg pqygcak