The Importance of Backer Board in Wet Areas

You’ve heard the saying: “It’s what’s underneath that counts.” That’s never more true than when it comes to tile in bathrooms, showers, and kitchens.

At HUGE Handyman, one of the most important steps we take before tile even goes up is installing the right backer board. It might not be glamorous, but it’s what keeps your shower lasting 15+ years instead of failing in 3.

🛁 What Is Backer Board?

Backer board (also known as cement board or tile underlayment) is the foundation layer that goes behind tile in wet areas. It's moisture-resistant, extremely rigid, and designed to support tile adhesion while protecting framing and drywall.

There are a few types:

Cement board (like HardieBacker) – Most common, water-resistant

Foam board (Schluter Kerdi-Board) – Lightweight and 100% waterproof

Fiber-Foam hybrid boards (Like GoBoard) – Easy to cut but require sealing

💦 Why It’s So Important

Without the right backer board, you're tiling directly over drywall or greenboard, both of which absorb water over time—even if your grout is sealed.

Backer board:

Prevents mold and rot

Increases structural support for tile

Gives a flat, stable surface

Extends the life of the tile installation

Helps avoid future repairs or tear-outs

🧱 What We Do Differently

We don’t just install backer board—we do it properly:

Gap the seams

Thinset underneath (if required)

Waterproof joints with mesh tape or membrane

Add extra fasteners for strength

Ensure everything is plumb, level, and solid

It's this prep work that makes the final result last.

🧠 Final Thought: It's the Stuff You Don't See That Matters Most

Great tile work starts before the first piece of tile is laid. At HUGE Handyman, we make sure every layer—from the studs to the grout—is done right. Because in a bathroom, cutting corners means future leaks. And we don’t do callbacks—we do it right the first time.