Were here to give you information on two of the most popular backer boards. They share many essential characteristics, but they also differ in some key aspects, so lets compare WonderBoard and Durock to decide which option is the best for your project. . It is denser and heavier than other cement board types, making it more resistant to impact damage. , Durock comes in various colors and textures. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The Spruce / Margot Cavin Fun Fact Unlike wood-based materials such as plywood or products that contain some wood such as drywall, cement board lacks organic matter, making it impervious to mold, rot, shrinkage, or decomposition. You may also want to use screws or nails to secure the boards. WonderBoard can be cut with a saw and nailed or screwed into place. Wonderboard has multiple applications in the construction field and is used as an, of WonderBoard include its fire resistance, waterproofing properties, and mold and mildew resistance. Hardibacker boards are one of the most popular types of backer boards. I am Clyde Mitchell and I actually write and run the site. It seems more thirsty than cement board. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Updated December 16, 2021 | Published December 16, 2021. Over the last 7 years, I have been blogging about home improvement and yes, I own ReliefInBath.com Remember that, to enhance its water resistance in a wet area, you will have to use waterproof sealants when installing Hardiebacker, which adds to the overall cost. : The cementitious core of Type C WonderBoard is reinforced with fiberglass mats. Hardiebacker may be used in both residential and business settings. Common places to use backer board are beneath tile floors in bathrooms and kitchens and behind wall tiles in shower cubicles or on kitchen splashbacks. Just as you would with drywall, make sure the screw heads are slightly depressed below the cement backer board surface. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years. Its made with a waterproof core, so it wont absorb any water that comes into contact with it. In this guide, we will explain all their pros and cons. It is a type of sheeting material that should be installed underneath all tiles in interior property construction that may come into contact with water. , while WonderBoard is not, making it the obvious choice for wet areas like showers and tub surrounds. Wonderboard can be cut with a utility knife or with a low-speed power tool such as a jigsaw. So what is WonderBoard made of?. If youre working alone, Hardiebackers small weight is a major benefit because it makes it so much simpler to deal with. Hardiebacker provides a stable, level surface that is resistant to moisture when used as a substrate. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Homenish.com Is A Participant In The Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An Affiliate Advertising Program Designed To Provide A Means For Sites To Earn Advertising Fees By Advertising And Linking To Amazon.com. Pre-formed tile backer boards not only eliminate the work and mess of wet mortar beds, they vastly speed up the process of tile installation because there is no need to wait for a thick bed of mortar to dry. Hardiebacker board is generally used for two primary purposes: as a substrate for tile and protection against water damage. Since Hardiebacker tends to be a more expensive option, additional expenses such as waterproof sealants may be a dealbreaker if youre trying to save money and time. While both options belong to the more expensive category, Hardiebacker is often more costly than the WonderBoard. , even though they have many similarities. Allegedly, this backer board is around 20 percent lighter than other brands. WonderBoard comes in two thicknesses, one is inch, and the other is 7/16 inch. Now based on our information and different aspects, its all up to you to make your decision. It is also. Additionally, WonderBoard is strong and durable, meaning it will not crack or break easily. As an Amazon Associate, I Earn From Qualifying Purchases. This makes it ideal for use in high moisture areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. It is made of cement, water, silica, limestone flour, and fibers such as Kevlar or fiberglass for increased strength. When choosing a cement board for your construction project, there are numerous factors that you need to take into consideration. Portland cement, the most popular form of cement for regular use, and sand are the essential ingredients of HardieBacker cement board. However, Durock is more suitable for areas with high humidity, as it is more water resistant. In essence, you are getting your troweled-on base, except most of the work has been done for you in a factory. You want the material to be durable, reliable, and easy to work with especially if youre installing it on your own. , so they wont rot or mildew like drywall. On top of that, cement board also reduces the chance of rot in the underlying wall studs or floor joists. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. In sharp contrast, cement backer board does not rot, warp, grow mold, or deteriorate when subjected to water. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Hardiebacker, on the other hand, is a popular option in bathrooms with high moisture levels, and it is believed to work well. If youre installing it as a substrate, youll first need to ensure that the area is clean and free of debris. For most do-it-yourselfers, tile installation is tough to master. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". When it comes to the structure, there are two main types of WonderBoard, and theyre used for different applications and tasks: Type X: This type of WonderBoard contains a layer of gypsum core reinforced with fiberglass mats. However, Durock is generally slightly more straightforward to install than WonderBoard. Because HardieBacker is made out of cellulose fibers and cement instead of pure cement, it is lighter than WonderBoard, which is mainly cement. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. . Another potential downside of WonderBoard is that it can be a bit more expensive than some of the other options on the market. : This type of WonderBoard has a cementitious core surrounded by fiberglass mats. R13 VS R15: 6 Differences You Should Know, Zinc vs Copper Roof Strips: 4 Differences You Need To Know, Densglass Sheathing vs Plywood: 8 Differences You Need To Know, How to Level a Floor Without Leveling Compound: 4 Methods, Vent Stack VS Stack Vent: 3 Main Differences You Should Know, Electric vs Air Impact Wrench: 7 Main Differences To Know. Required fields are marked *. If youre looking for a more stylish option, Durock comes in various colors and textures. It is often used in basements and other areas where flooding is a concern. such as waterproof sealants may be a dealbreaker if youre trying to save money and time. The most significant factor in this type of home element is the material, especially in bathroom features like backboards. Wonderboard is mostly used in domestic settings, with commercial applications being less common. Overall, it is safe to conclude that Hardiebacker offers more flexibility in installation, making it more suitable for your DIY projects especially if you wouldnt want to have a professional involved. If youre installing it as a substrate, youll first need to ensure that the area is clean and free of debris. Hardiebackes typical backer boards are more water-resistant than Wonderboards normal line, which is why, if you want to use the backer boards in your bathroom, we prefer Hardiebacker. They are preferable for bathroom floors or tiled walls in shower cubicles. to help you install your WonderBoard cement boards, as they are pretty heavy. The materials have an indirect and occasionally direct impact on durability, affordability, pricing, and service. I run a hardware store nearby Court Anaheim, CA. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Hardiebacker is one of the most popular types of cement board, and its a good choice for projects where tile or any other surface will be, This cement backer board comprises Portland cement, silica sand, and fiberglass mesh. Cement boards are often used as a base for, because they provide a stable surface that wont expand or contract with changes in temperature or humidity. Use 1/4-inch backer board on curved applications or on vertical surfaces such as fireplaces. Boards can be easily cut with a hand saw, circular saw, jigsaw, or multi-tool. Youll find that Durock can be quite hard to cut and carry, and it often crumbles when you try to work with it. It is made of a cement board that is then covered with a water-resistant surface. If youre using regular WonderBoard, which is 5/8 thick, youll need about 5 pounds per square foot. in installation, making it more suitable for your DIY projects especially if you wouldnt want to have a professional involved. , making them suitable for various applications. WonderBoard does have some advantages over Durock, though. HardieBacker and WonderBoard both claim to be water-resistant to varying degrees. Contractors can use cement boards to reinforce outdoor constructions with steel and hardwood studs since they are resilient and weatherproof. If you expect to apply fiber cement board in areas of high water volume, such as inside of a bathtub or swimming pool, it is recommended that you install a barrier of 4 mil plastic behind the backer board. You have various options when it comes to different types and thicknesses of the Durock boards. It is the leading choice in commercial construction due to its high level of fire resistance. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. It is possible to find backer boards that are 4 feet wide by 8 feet long. You will need a hammer, screwdriver, utility knife, and a level. , theres also maintenance, ease of installation, suitability for a specific task, and the inevitable factor cost. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Once this happens, the studs can begin to dampen. When it comes to waterproofing, Durock is the clear winner. Wonderboard is suitable for use on both indoor and outdoor projects, while Hardibacker is purely for indoor projects. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years. Backer board is also recommended underneath tile floors in entryways or in laundry rooms because if the washing machine leaks or rain seeps in through the front door, the integrity of the floor will be protected. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. The price difference between the WonderBoard and a regular cement board isn't significant. , water, and either wood fibers or paper, depending on the brand. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Wonderboard comes in two main types: Type X: This type of WonderBoard is made with a layer of gypsum core surrounded by fiberglass mats. It is typically used in applications where fire resistance is essential, such as commercial construction. Cement boards are less prone to faults and damages since they are more resilient. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. When discussing the two options separately, you may feel were talking about two identical materials. The situation might change based on a number of factors. While they may seem pretty identical, it is essential to note some significant differences between these two cement boards. Cement boards are often used as a base for tile floors and other tile projects because they provide a stable surface that wont expand or contract with changes in temperature or humidity. , making it a popular choice for do-it-yourselfers. Wonderboard is only available in gray, but its also popular with contractors as it is classic, neutral, and easy to combine with other elements. WonderBoard is a waterproof material, but its installation can often be challenging, so you may have to hire a professional to help you with your project or take over. You may also want to use screws or nails to secure the boards. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. If you are working alone, then Hardibacker is going to be a great choice because it is lightweight, making it much easier to lift and maneuver and generally resulting in an easier project all around. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. To be honest, the cost is a key component to consider, just like other things. How to Install Floor Cement Board Underlayment for Tile, Flooring Underlayment Basics: What to Know Before You Buy, Tile Backer Board: What to Know Before You Buy. Wonder is heavier, has sharper edges, and is more brittle. Drywall is generally available in 4 foot by 8-foot sheets, while backer board sheets measure 3 feet by 5 feet. Wonderboard has multiple applications in the construction field and is used as an underlayment for different types of flooring. While Hardiebacker is. It is thicker and denser than regular drywall, making it ideal for areas that need extra support, such as load-bearing walls. Plus, its an inexpensive way to add style and personality to your space. When it comes to the structure, there are two main. For example, if youre doing a small backsplash or shower surround, Durock may be the more affordable option. One of the most common problems with WonderBoard is that it is not waterproof. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. With fibercement, sometimes it just keeps sucking up water. Tile backer board reduces the need for creating a thick bed of wet mortar under your tile. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Another potential downside of WonderBoard is that it can be a bit more. A WonderBoard tile of the same size costs around $10, so its $2 cheaper. Your email address will not be published. Generally speaking, Hardiebacker is usually a more expensive option. Furthermore, durock is mold and mildew-resistant, making it a great choice for damp or humid areas. It does not store any personal data. Additionally, durock is easy to cut and install, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. Professional tile installers have many tries and they learn on site. As a heavy and more solid type of sheet, Wonderboard can be a better foundation for large areas like kitchen floors. HardieBacker is lighter and more flexible than other backerboards . , whereas its installation can cost more than Durock if you need to hire a professional to assist you in this project. After pressing the board into the mortar, screw it in with screws made especially for cement backer board installation. You want the material to be durable, reliable, and easy to work with especially if youre installing it on your own. : as a substrate for tile and protection against water damage. It is made up of 90% Portland cement and sand, is moisture resistant, and has great tile adhesion. David Kessler is a CSLB licensed contractor with over 25 years of experience. Why Choose Cement Board Over Wood? Cement acts as binder in both the cases. , so it may require additional support if used for large installations. Durock is also fire resistant and can be used in interior and exterior applications. Should You Install Cement Backer Board on a Concrete Floor? Depending on what type of cement board you use, the materials involved may be different. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. More about our product More about . Tile backer board is the perfect tiling assistant that you need. Consider backer board as the water-resistant alternative to drywall. This is because Hardibacker is slightly less durable and is water-resistant as opposed to waterproof like Wonderboard. HardieBacker includes cellulose fibers as well as the MoldBlock ingredient. Cement backer board is mainly used as a sub-surface for tiling. is an excellent middle-ground option. Everything in the Wonderboard range is waterproof, while standard Hardibacker boards are water-resistant. Georgia-Pacific makes DensShield, a cement-glass mat that is up to 5-percent continuous filament glass fiber mixed in with gypsum. Hardiebacker is made from a mix of Portland cement and cellulose fibers, while Wonderboard is made from Portland cement and silica. , which means that you will not have to use any waterproof sealants to ensure that there wont be any water damage. Lush and Ethique are the two most popular brands for this. Durock is also resistant to freeze-thaw damage, so it can be used in exterior applications where freezing temperatures are a concern. While Durock can be used for exterior and interior applications, this isnt the case with WonderBoard. If youre wondering which is easier to install, the answer would have to be Hardiebacker. Kitchen Faucet Leaking At Base: Causes & 5 Quick Fixes, Pewter vs Brushed Nickel: The 6 Differences You Need to Know, Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge: 5 Differences You Need to Know. Finally, if you choose WonderBoard HD, which is 3/4 thick, youll need about 6 pounds per square foot.