Marianne Martinez
Hardiebacker, a type of fiber cement board, can be laid under a shower pan. However, it is essential to ensure proper waterproofing to prevent moisture issues and mold growth. Before installation, the flooring should be leveled, and any cracks or imperfections should be filled with cement backer board adhesive. After applying adhesive to the back of the boards or the shower pan, they should be laid straight and lined up with adjacent boards. While waterproofing is not always required, it is generally considered best practice to prevent future issues.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Level and screed the floor, smooth out imperfections, and fill large cracks with cement backer board adhesive. Cover surrounding areas with plastic sheeting to protect from board expansion. |
| Adhesive Application | Apply adhesive to the shower pan or back of the backer board. For thinset options, smooth out ridges before they dry. Fill cracks and gaps between boards for waterproofing. |
| Board Installation | Lay down the Hardiebacker boards, keeping them straight and aligned. Drill holes in boards for extra security. |
| Waterproofing | Apply a waterproofing membrane to the cement backer board. RedGard and MAPEI Mapelastic Aquadefense are recommended products. |
| Tile Installation | Apply adhesive or thinset to the back of tile boards and lay them down before it dries. Use premixed mortar that matches the tile colour. |
| Vapor Barrier | A vapor barrier is necessary between the boards and studs to drain moisture into the shower pan. |
| Mold Resistance | Hardiebacker is resistant to mold and mildew growth, making it suitable for bathrooms and showers. |
| Environmental Safety | Hardiebacker contains no asbestos or formaldehyde, making it environmentally safe. |
| Size | Standard Hardiebacker panels are 3' x 5', larger than most shower pans, allowing full coverage without seams. |
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What You'll Learn
Waterproofing is essential
While some contractors may argue that waterproofing isn't a requirement, it is still considered best practice. Waterproofing your shower is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping into the walls and causing mould growth. Hardiebacker, also known as fibre/cement board, is not entirely waterproof. While it can withstand short-term exposure to moisture, it is not designed to be constantly wet. Therefore, it is essential to install a waterproofing membrane or vapour barrier to protect the walls and floor surrounding your shower.
There are several waterproofing products available, such as Redgard, MAPEI Mapelastic Aquadefense, or Kerdi. These membranes can be painted or rolled onto the backer board and adjacent walls to create a protective layer that prevents moisture ingress. This step is especially important if you are using cement backer board, as it can wick water and cause issues with curing and structural integrity. By investing in proper waterproofing, you can avoid costly insurance claims and ensure the longevity of your shower installation.
Before installing the backer board, it is essential to level and smooth out any imperfections in the flooring. Filling in large cracks or gaps with cement backer board adhesive will ensure a flat surface for your Hardiebacker. The area surrounding the installation should be covered with heavy plastic sheeting to protect walls and other surfaces from potential damage caused by the expansion of the boards when they get wet. Proper preparation and waterproofing techniques are key to a successful and long-lasting shower installation.
After levelling the floor and addressing any cracks, you can install the Hardiebacker. Ensure that the boards are straight and aligned with adjacent boards. If using a thinset, smooth out any ridges before they dry completely. Filling in any noticeable cracks or gaps between the backer boards is crucial for overall waterproofing. Once the thinset or adhesive has dried, you can install your shower pan, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Waterproofing your shower installation is a critical step to prevent moisture damage and mould growth. By using products like Redgard or Kerdi, you can create a protective barrier that keeps moisture out. Proper preparation, such as levelling the floor and filling cracks, is also essential for a successful installation. With the right techniques and materials, you can ensure a long-lasting and waterproof shower.
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Level and smooth the floor
To install a shower pan, it is important to level and smooth the floor beforehand. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Firstly, vacuum and clean the floor thoroughly. Identify any high spots or imperfections on the floor and knock them down with a hammer. Remove any hardened glue from the old shower base using a scraper or spatula. Ensure that the floor is completely smooth and check for level using a 4- or 6-foot level tool. Place the level tool on the floor from front to back and check the position of the bubble; if the floor is level, the bubble will be in the center. Repeat this process every 4 to 6 inches across the floor, marking any uneven areas with a pencil.
Next, go to the marked areas and lay down shims. Use the level tool to determine where to place the shims and adjust their height as needed to raise the floor to level. Screw down the shims with galvanized flat-head screws and a screw gun to secure them in place.
To fill in any large cracks or gaps, use cement backer board adhesive or a similar product. Cover the surrounding area with heavy plastic sheeting to protect it, as the boards will expand when they get wet. Apply the adhesive directly to the floor or the back of the backer board, depending on the type of installation you are performing.
Once the adhesive has dried, use a trowel to smooth out any remaining ridges. If you are using a thinset, smooth out any ridges before they dry completely. Apply thinset to low spots and use a straightedge to level the floor. You can also use a beating block at an angle to the tile to beat the floor flat.
Finally, spread a levelling compound flush with the shims, allowing it to get thinner as the shims thin out. Smooth the compound with a stippled roller to remove air bubbles and let it settle. Leave the compound to dry overnight, then check the floor for level again. Apply a coat of sealer to the dried levelling compound and let it dry completely before installing the shower pan.
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Filling in cracks
Before installing the backer board, it is important to level and screed the flooring to smooth out any imperfections. Any large cracks should be filled with cement backer board adhesive or an equivalent product. The surrounding area should be protected with heavy plastic sheeting, as the boards will expand when wet and could damage nearby walls or surfaces.
When installing the backer board, it is important to keep the boards straight and lined up with adjacent boards. If using a thinset, smooth out any ridges before they dry completely. If there are noticeable cracks or gaps between the backer boards, fill them with thinset or cement backer board adhesive. Letting the cement backer board dry completely is crucial, as this will ensure a strong hold. The drying time can vary from 4 hours to a few days, depending on the product and the size of the area.
To further strengthen the installation and prevent cracks, you can drill holes through the tile backer boards and screw them into place. Additionally, you can apply a waterproofing membrane, such as Redgard, to the backer board to prevent mould growth and water damage. This extra layer of protection will ensure that your shower pan remains waterproof and durable for many years.
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Using adhesive or screws
Installing a Hardiebacker board in a shower pan is a challenging task, but it can be done with the right tools and knowledge. Before installing the backer board, ensure that the flooring is levelled and screed (smoothed) to remove any imperfections. If there are large cracks, fill them with cement backer board adhesive or an equivalent product. Cover the surrounding area with heavy plastic sheeting to protect it from damage when laying down the backer board.
You can use adhesive, screws, or a combination of both to install the backer board. If you are using standard screws, apply adhesive to the back of the boards. If you are using a thinset option, apply adhesive to the shower pan before installing the boards. Ensure that the boards are straight and aligned with adjacent boards. Smooth out any ridges with a trowel before the thinset dries. If there are noticeable cracks or gaps between the boards, fill them with thinset or cement backer board adhesive.
Let the adhesive dry completely before proceeding. The drying time can vary from 4 hours to a few days, depending on the product and the size of the area. Once the adhesive is dry, lay down your shower pan. Use a premixed mortar that matches the colour of your tiles or panels. Apply adhesive or thinset to the back of your tile boards and lay them down before the adhesive dries. If you want to be cautious, drill holes through the tile backer boards to secure them further.
Waterproofing is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping into the Hardiebacker board and causing mould growth. Apply a waterproofing membrane such as Redgard or MAPEI Mapelastic Aquadefense to the backer board. You can also use a protective flashing tape such as "protecto window flashing" to the backer board and the bottom of the flange.
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Tiling over the backer board
Cement boards are a popular choice for backer boards as they provide a solid, water-resistant surface for tiles to adhere to. They are lightweight, easy to install and cut, and highly durable when coupled with cement tiles. However, one drawback is that cement boards are highly absorbent and typically require sealing with a waterproofing membrane before tiling.
Fiber cement boards, such as Hardiebacker, are similar to cement boards but include cellulose fibers that enhance strength and flexibility in wet conditions. They are resistant to compression, mould, and moisture, eliminating the need for an additional waterproof layer. While fiber cement boards are more expensive, this extra cost may be offset by not requiring a waterproofing layer.
Glass mat gypsum boards are another option for shower installations. They offer excellent water resistance and impact protection for tiles, making them a good choice for those seeking extra assurance against potential damage.
When tiling over the backer board, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary steps to ensure proper adhesion. This may include levelling and smoothing the surface, filling any cracks or gaps with adhesive or thinset, and ensuring the backer board is securely attached to the wall or floor.
Additionally, consider the type of tiles you plan to use. For instance, glaze tiles work well for tile walls, while cement tiles are ideal for bathroom floors and walls. By choosing suitable materials and following the recommended installation procedures, you can achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing tiled shower area.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can lay Hardiebacker, a waterproof and mould-resistant fibre/cement board, under a shower pan.
The process involves levelling and smoothing out the flooring, measuring and cutting the boards, and then installing them with adhesive or screws. It is important to fill in any cracks or gaps with cement backer board adhesive or thinset to ensure proper waterproofing.
Waterproofing is critical to prevent moisture issues and mould growth. A protective flashing tape and an additional layer of waterproofing, such as Redgard, are recommended. Hardiebacker should not be constantly wet, so proper waterproofing is essential.
