The mixture of these materials forms a durable, fire resistant and water resistant panel that is denser and stronger than traditional drywall. Cement board has roughly four times the mass of drywall giving it increased rigidity and impact resistance making it suitable for a variety of interior and exterior applications.
Properties of Cement Board
High Strength and Durability
Made from non-combustible materials, cement board offers superior strength and durability compared to drywall. It is highly impact, mold and moisture resistant allowing it to withstand weather, dry rot and pests. The density and strength of cement board makes it suitable for high traffic areas that require extra durability like walls around tubs, showers and around sinks.
Fire Resistance
Since Cement Board is made primarily from inorganic materials like sand and cement, it is naturally fire resistant. It has a non-combustible core and will not burn, warp or otherwise degrade when exposed to fire or high temperatures. Its fire resistance allows it to be used as an alternative to drywall for walls and ceilings in building construction.
Water Resistance
Being dense in nature, cement board is highly resistant to moisture damage. It will not swell, warp or deteriorate even after prolonged exposure to water. This makes it suitable for use in wet areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, saunas, around hot tubs etc. Its resistance to water penetration also makes it suitable for outdoor applications where it will be exposed to rain.
Rot Resistance
Due to its strong, inorganic composition, cement board will not support mold or mildew growth even in damp conditions. It is highly resistant to rot and damage from wetness, eliminating the risk of material degradation over time in wet areas. This provides excellent durability even in constant wet indoor or outdoor applications.
Applications of Cement Board
Bathroom Walls
One of the most common applications of cement board is as a substrate for wall tile or stone in bathrooms. It provides a strong, waterproof and mold resistant surface that can withstand continuous exposure to moisture. Its rigidity also prevents cracking and damage behind tiles from minor wall movements.
Shower Surrounds
For constructing shower stalls, cement board offers an excellent waterproof substrate that will not deteriorate over time in damp conditions. It provides rigidity to support wall tiles and resist water penetration behind. When coated with waterproofing membrane and tiles, cement board forms a completely waterproof surround.
Exterior Siding
On exteriors, cement board can be used as an alternative to wooden or fiber cement siding. It protects the house from moisture while remaining impervious to rot and decay even without paint. With proper sealing, cement board also offers increased fire resistance and durability as siding.
Pools and Spas
To construct walls around swimming pools and spas, cement board offers several advantages over wood or drywall. Being waterproof, rot resistant and chemically stable, it provides a long-lasting surface that can withstand chemicals in swimming pool water without degradation.
Countertops
With its durability and resistance to impacts and water damage, cement board can be used as a substrate for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. When coated with an epoxy or sealed properly, it makes a strong yet affordable option compared to stone or solid surface material countertops.
Roofing Underlayment
As an underlayment installed below roof tiles or shingles, cement board provides protection from water intrusion better than asphalt felt paper. Its rigidity also adds structural strength and wind resistance to the roofing system while preventing growth of mold or rot underneath roofing materials.
Installation of Cement Board
Surface Preparation
For installation, surfaces must be clean, dry and free of any loose particles, dust, dirt or grease. Concrete surfaces require proper cleaning, rinsing and drying. Metal surfaces should be clean and free of rust and primer or self-adhesive membrane should be installed if on gypsum.
Using Screws
Cement board is installed using corrosion resistant drywall screws long enough to securely fasten through the board and into wall studs or other solid backing at 6-8 inches. Screws should be driven flush, not over-tightened to prevent cracking.
Sealing and Waterproofing
After cement board installation, all joints and screws should be taped using fiberglass mesh tape and multiple thin coats of waterproof joint compound. For wet areas, an additional waterproofing membrane should be applied prior to final finishing and tile installation.
Proper Ventilation
In wet indoor areas like bathrooms or saunas, ensure proper cross-ventilation or installation of an exhaust fan to remove moisture from behind the cement board preventing damage from dampness over time.
Maintenance of Cement Board
Cement board has excellent durability and requires very little maintenance when properly installed and sealed. However, periodic re-caulking of tile joints helps prevent moisture intrusion behind. Mold or mildew, if any, can be removed using mild bleach solution. Damaged areas may require patching or replacement. With some preventive upkeep, cement board will last indefinitely.
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