Are you planning to renovate your bathroom? If so, you must ensure that the area around your tub is properly protected against moisture damage. Installing cement board around a tub is an excellent way to protect the walls from water damage and provide a solid base for tile installation. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of installing cement board around a tub.
Materials Needed
Before we start, let’s go over the materials you’ll need for this project:
- Cement board
- Cement board screws
- Circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Drill
- Utility knife
- Measuring tape
- Straight edge
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
It’s worth noting that cement board comes in various thicknesses, but it’s recommended to use a minimum of 1/2 inch thick cement board for this project. Also, ensure that the cement board you choose is rated for use in a wet environment, such as a bathroom.
Preparation
Before you start the installation process, you need to prepare the tub area. Start by removing any existing tiles or adhesive from the wall where you’ll be installing cement board. Next, clean the area with a mixture of water and trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. Rinse the area with clean water and let it dry completely.
Once the area is clean and dry, you can start measuring and cutting the cement board to fit around the tub. Measure the height and width of the wall, taking into account any irregularities or obstacles such as pipes. Use a straight edge and a utility knife to score the cement board and snap it along the score line. Use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut the cement board to size.
Preparation (Continued)
After cutting the cement board to size, mark the location of the studs on the wall. It’s essential to ensure that you screw the cement board into the studs for a secure installation. You can use a stud finder to locate the studs behind the wall.
Next, place the cement board against the wall, making sure it fits snugly around the tub. Use a drill to insert cement board screws every 8 inches along the studs, leaving a 1/4 inch gap between the cement board and the tub. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can cause the cement board to crack.
Once you’ve secured the cement board to the wall, fill the gaps between the cement board and the tub with a silicone caulk. This will create a watertight seal and prevent water from seeping behind the cement board.
Installation
Now that the cement board is installed and sealed, it’s time to prepare it for tile installation. Start by taping the seams between the cement board sheets with fiberglass mesh tape. Apply a thin layer of thinset mortar to the seams, covering the tape completely.
Next, apply a layer of thinset mortar to the entire surface of the cement board, using a notched trowel. Make sure the mortar is evenly spread and has a consistent thickness.
Once the mortar is applied, you can start laying your tiles. Use tile spacers to ensure that the tiles are evenly spaced and aligned. After laying the tiles, allow the mortar to dry completely before grouting.
In conclusion, installing cement board around a tub is a crucial step in bathroom renovation. It protects the walls from moisture damage and provides a solid base for tile installation. By following these simple steps, you can ensure a secure and watertight installation that will last for years to come.
Finishing
After you’ve installed the cement board around the tub, it’s time to finish the installation process. Start by filling in the gaps between the cement board and the tub with a waterproof sealant. This will prevent any water from seeping behind the cement board and causing damage.
Next, reinforce the seams between the cement board panels with mesh tape. Apply a thin layer of thin-set mortar over the mesh tape, making sure to feather the edges to create a smooth surface. Once the mortar is dry, you can begin tiling the area around the tub.
When tiling, make sure to use a waterproof adhesive and grout. This will ensure that the tiles are properly sealed and won’t allow water to penetrate behind the cement board. Once the tiles are in place, apply a silicone caulk around the edges of the tub to create a watertight seal.
Conclusion
Properly installing cement board around a tub is crucial to protect your bathroom from water damage. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that the area around your tub is properly protected and ready for tiling. Remember to use the right materials and follow all safety precautions, such as wearing protective goggles and a dust mask when cutting cement board.
In conclusion, taking the time to install cement board around your tub will not only protect your bathroom from water damage but also provide a solid base for your tiles. So, if you’re planning on renovating your bathroom, don’t skip this crucial step.