How to Install WonderBoard
WonderBoard is a cement based backer board for ceramic, porcelain and other types of mortar-embedded tile. Commonly available in 3-by-5 foot sheets, it comes in 1/4 and 1/2 inch thicknesses. Since it is unharmed by water, it is perfect for installing tile in wet or damp areas. The 1/2-inch WonderBoard is excellent for walls and ceilings in showers and baths. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 100 percent silicone caulk Caulk gun 6 mil poly sheeting Scissors Utility knife Stapler Cement board screws Fiberglass tape Tile mortar Trowel Gloves
Instructions
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1
Cut a piece of 6 mil poly sheeting that will fit the area where the Wonderboard will be installed. It is best to cut it slightly oversized by a few inches and trim later.
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2
Run a 1/2-inch bead of caulk down every stud and across any cross members. For installation around a tub, run some caulk along the install rim of the tub. Place the poly sheeting on the wall and press it lightly into the caulk. Use one staple at the top of each stud to hold the sheet in place.
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3
Cut each panel of WonderBoard as necessary. Put in position and screw into place using cement board screws. Screws should be placed every 6 inches. Keep screws 1 to 1 1/2 inches from the edge of the board.
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4
Continue installing panels until the job is done. Go over the screws and make sure each one is set flush with the surface of the WonderBoard panels. The caulk will seal the plastic sheeting moisture barrier.
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5
Cover each seam with tile mortar and work it into the joints. Place fiberglass mesh tape over the seams and press into the mortar. Add additional mortar over the tape and remove any excess. All the tape should be covered, with no gaps or empty spaces.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful not to puncture the poly sheeting, as it is a moisture barrier designed to keep water out of your walls. The WonderBoard might not be damaged by water, but it is porous, and the moisture barrier is an important part of the installation. If you won't be the one installing the tile, talk to your tile installer. He may want you to leave the fiberglass taping to him. If you will be installing the tile yourself, wait until you are ready to install it before mortaring the seams or installing the fiberglass tape. Then, only cover the seams with mortar and tape as you work along. This will prevent a "hump" in the tile. If the seam and tape set, you'll have to add more mortar over the top of it, possibly creating a "hump," or raised row of tiles. Instead, just do the seam mortar and taping as part of the tile installation.
Always wear safety glasses when working. Always wear a dust mask when working with cement products. Always wear gloves to protect your hands against the cement boards' sharp edges.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Andre Chinn
