These flat structural panels provide a solid foundation that prevents flexing, which would otherwise cause rigid finishes like ceramic tile or stone to crack. In wet areas like showers, cement-based or fiberglass-faced gypsum panels are used because they will not rot or degrade when exposed to moisture. They are typically fastened directly to the wall studs or floor joists with specialized coated screws.
Tape and mud the seams on that cement backerboard before you start laying out the shower pan.
Also heard as
- cement board
- tile backer
Related terms
Sheet rock
A rigid panel of compressed gypsum wrapped in thick paper used to form interior walls and ceilings.
Subfloor
The structural layer resting on the floor joists that supports the finished flooring.
Cladding
The non-loadbearing exterior skin applied to a building to shed water and provide aesthetic appeal.