Mold In Our Homes (SHOWERS)
In order to reduce the risk of infestation we must eliminate the environment and
conditions that are conducive to mold growth. To do this we must remove all gypsum
board (no matter if it is specially treated or not, they were also eliminated in the 2006
IRC from any wet area); secondly we must eliminate moisture penetration in those areas.
Simply put no gypsum, no water, no mold. If other surfaces or backerboard materials are
installed such as cementitious backer units or fiber cement boards, one need to know that
these are only water resistant but still absorp and pass water and especially water vapour
to the wooden construction where the real problem will grow. All these substrates need to
be waterproofed additionally. All seams, joints, penetrations as well. Mesh tape and
thinset adhesives do not waterproof any tile installation. Because this is fact, none of
these manufacturers covers the mold issue in the wooden construction with any warranty,
nor does any insurance company cover any contractor work regarding mold issues
anymore. This situation must be clear to everyone, otherwise this problem will not be
solved in any predictable and successful way or form. Another solution that the industry
offers can simplify the installations and eliminate the mold concerns in a most practical
and efficient way:
USE: Water Proof Building Panels
Fiberglass foam mesh backer boards are lightweight, waterproof building panels with a high-density foam core (often XPS) sandwiched between layers of cement-coated fiberglass mesh, creating a strong, mold-resistant base for tile in wet areas like showers, replacing heavy cement boards for faster, easier installation while providing excellent insulation and crack prevention. These versatile boards are durable, easy to cut, and offer superior waterproofing, thermal resistance, and dimensional stability, making them ideal for floors, walls, countertops, and custom builds.
Key Features & Benefits
The core provides rigidity and insulation, while the cementitious coating and embedded fiberglass mesh create a strong, chemically resistant surface that bonds well with thin-set mortar, preventing tile cracking and ensuring longevity in humid or wet environments.
conditions that are conducive to mold growth. To do this we must remove all gypsum
board (no matter if it is specially treated or not, they were also eliminated in the 2006
IRC from any wet area); secondly we must eliminate moisture penetration in those areas.
Simply put no gypsum, no water, no mold. If other surfaces or backerboard materials are
installed such as cementitious backer units or fiber cement boards, one need to know that
these are only water resistant but still absorp and pass water and especially water vapour
to the wooden construction where the real problem will grow. All these substrates need to
be waterproofed additionally. All seams, joints, penetrations as well. Mesh tape and
thinset adhesives do not waterproof any tile installation. Because this is fact, none of
these manufacturers covers the mold issue in the wooden construction with any warranty,
nor does any insurance company cover any contractor work regarding mold issues
anymore. This situation must be clear to everyone, otherwise this problem will not be
solved in any predictable and successful way or form. Another solution that the industry
offers can simplify the installations and eliminate the mold concerns in a most practical
and efficient way:
USE: Water Proof Building Panels
Fiberglass foam mesh backer boards are lightweight, waterproof building panels with a high-density foam core (often XPS) sandwiched between layers of cement-coated fiberglass mesh, creating a strong, mold-resistant base for tile in wet areas like showers, replacing heavy cement boards for faster, easier installation while providing excellent insulation and crack prevention. These versatile boards are durable, easy to cut, and offer superior waterproofing, thermal resistance, and dimensional stability, making them ideal for floors, walls, countertops, and custom builds.
Key Features & Benefits
- Waterproof & Vapor-Resistant: 100% waterproof core prevents water damage, mold, and mildew, perfect for wet zones.
- Lightweight & Easy to Install: Significantly lighter and easier to cut and handle than cement board, reducing labor time and costs.
- Durable & Strong: Fiberglass mesh reinforcement provides crack prevention and excellent compression strength for stable tile setting.
- Insulation: Offers thermal resistance, improving energy efficiency.
- Versatile: Suitable for walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and custom shower benches.
- Compatible: Works with most tile adhesives and waterproofing systems.
- Shower and bathtub surrounds
- Bathroom floors and walls
- Kitchen backsplashes and countertops
- Steam rooms and spa areas
The core provides rigidity and insulation, while the cementitious coating and embedded fiberglass mesh create a strong, chemically resistant surface that bonds well with thin-set mortar, preventing tile cracking and ensuring longevity in humid or wet environments.
Waterproof tile backer board
Waterproof Tile backer board in a tub/Shower