Cement backer board over ply.. Add any structural strength?
#1
12-17-13, 11:15 AM
Cement backer board over ply.. Add any structural strength?
Curious if cement backer board, such as that sold by Hardie, when laminated to a ply base adds "any" appreciable structural strength? And if so, would 1/2" make a worthwhile difference over 1/4" (using thinset & screws for adhesion)?
#2
12-17-13, 01:23 PM
Not a good product. You will probably see cracks in the grout and tile. These are two different materials which expand and contract differently. I have used Ditra by Schulter. It is not mechanically fastened to floor so when wood moves this doesn't. Ditra is installed with thinset very easy to do a lot of pros love this product.
#3
12-17-13, 01:46 PM
Banned. Rule And/Or Policy Violation
To answer your question, not it does not add strength.
The subflooring, joist, underlayment needs to be rock solid before anything else is done.
The subflooring, joist, underlayment needs to be rock solid before anything else is done.
#4
12-17-13, 04:25 PM
Much appreciate the replies.
Doubt I'll be going with the best case scenario (Ditra uncoupler) and instead simply sticking with the tried and true backer-on-ply. Since my base substrate for the counter top is decently stout at 3/4" + 1/2" ply it seems 1/4" backer should be sufficient since I gain nothing from using 1/2".
Doubt I'll be going with the best case scenario (Ditra uncoupler) and instead simply sticking with the tried and true backer-on-ply. Since my base substrate for the counter top is decently stout at 3/4" + 1/2" ply it seems 1/4" backer should be sufficient since I gain nothing from using 1/2".
#5
12-17-13, 05:06 PM
Member
Counter tops are different than flooring applications. Your scenario sandwich of ply plus backer is more than sufficient, if not overkill for a counter. Proceed and keep us abreast, let us know if you move to floor tile and we can continue the discussion.
