Why Foam Backer Boards Are Better Than Cement Backer Boards for Wet Areas

When remodeling your bathroom or any wet area in your home, choosing the right backer board is crucial for ensuring durability and longevity. Foam backer boards and cement backer boards are popular options, but foam backer boards offer several distinct advantages, particularly in wet environments. Here’s why foam backer boards might be the superior choice for your next bathroom renovation or tile installation project.

1. Superior Waterproofing

Foam Backer Boards: Foam backer boards are designed with superior waterproofing features. Made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS), these waterproof backer boards prevent water from penetrating

through the board, which is essential in wet areas like showers, tub surrounds, and high-humidity bathrooms.

Cement Backer Boards: While cement backer boards are moisture-resistant, they are not completely waterproof. They are porous and can absorb water if not properly sealed, leading to potential issues like mold growth and deterioration over time.

2. Easier Installation

Foam Backer Boards: Foam backer boards are lightweight and easy to cut, simplifying the installation process. You can handle and fit the boards effortlessly, reducing installation time and effort. Many foam backer boards come with built-in waterproofing membranes, eliminating the need for additional waterproofing layers.

Cement Backer Boards: Cement backer boards are heavier and more challenging to cut. They also require additional waterproofing measures, such as applying a waterproof membrane or sealant, which adds time and complexity to the installation process.

3. Enhanced Thermal Insulation

Foam Backer Boards: Foam backer boards provide better thermal insulation compared to cement backer boards. This can help maintain consistent temperatures in your bathroom, improving energy efficiency. They also help reduce condensation on cold surfaces, which is beneficial for maintaining a comfortable environment.

Cement Backer Boards: While they offer some thermal resistance, cement backer boards are not as effective as foam boards in insulating against temperature fluctuations.

4. Mold and Mildew Resistance

Foam Backer Boards: Foam backer boards are resistant to mold and mildew growth due to their non-porous nature. This resistance helps maintain a healthier environment in wet areas and reduces the risk of unpleasant odors and health issues related to mold.

Cement Backer Boards: Cement backer boards are more susceptible to mold and mildew if they become saturated with moisture. Proper sealing can mitigate this risk, but it requires ongoing maintenance to ensure the boards remain protected.

5. Long-Term Performance

Foam Backer Boards: The durability and waterproofing of foam backer boards ensure long-term performance in wet areas. They maintain their integrity over time, providing a reliable base for tile installations without the need for frequent repairs.

Cement Backer Boards: While cement backer boards are durable, their performance can degrade over time if they are exposed to moisture due to improper sealing or installation.

Conclusion

When remodeling wet areas in your home, foam backer boards offer clear advantages over cement backer boards, primarily due to their superior waterproofing capabilities. They simplify installation, provide better thermal insulation, resist mold and mildew, and ensure long-term performance. By choosing foam backer boards, you’re investing in a more reliable and durable solution for your bathroom or other wet areas.

If you’re considering a bathroom remodel or need advice on the best materials for your project, contact us today. Our experts are here to help you make the best choices for a successful renovation.