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Installing Cement Board Underlayment

Installing Tile Underlayment

How To Prepare For A Tile Floor

Preparing for tile means following a proper subfloor fastening procedure and usually installing cement board underlayment. [CBU]

Installing cement board underlayment is recommended to provide a flat, smooth and durable surface for tile installation and adhesion.

CBU has a proven track record for longevity and is specifically designed to resist moisture and mold growth – making this a great choice for shower walls and bathroom floors.

What Is Cement board Underlayment?

Cement board underlayment is a ridged substrate made from Portland cement, aggregate and glass mesh. It comes in widths of ¼, 3/8 and ½ inches and 3’ x 5’ or 4’ x 8’ sheet stock

Why Use Cement Board Underlayment?

CBU when installed correctly creates a perfect surface to bond tiles to. CBU is designed not to swell, expand or disintegrate when subjected to prolong exposure to moisture. Its lower absorption of water allows for a better tile bond over time. Which is why we see its used a lot in bathrooms.

Using CBU can eliminate the need to add threshold transitions, as it does not raise the height of tiles floors as much as the older, more traditional methods do, such as a “mud job.”

CBU is mostly used in shower walls, under tile floors on tub decks. I’ve seen an in crease in CBU used in outdoor applications such as counters, and skirt walls on out buildings.

How To Install Cement board Underlayment:

The best tile floor projects start with a solid and secure subfloor. Make sure the subfloor joints are staggered and the panels are glued and screwed down to prevent squeaks.

If your subfloor is not new and was nailed down when it was originally installed I recommend installing some screws to re-secure it and help prevent board movement.

If your subfloor is not new and was nailed down when it was originally installed I recommend installing some screws to re-secure it and help prevent board movement.

 

Installing Cementboard Underlayment Video:

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