Mortar board beneath shower tiles prevents water damage to wall studs.
Installing a mortar board backing beneath ceramic tiles can help prevent water damage to the studs behind the shower walls. While the grout and ceramic tile ideally bond together making a waterproof layer to protect the wall, often water will work its way underneath the tile. For this reason, it is recommended that you install mortar board and asphalt-saturated felt in place of gypsum board. Even green water-resistant gypsum board should not be used in high humidity situations.
Instructions
1. Prepare the area for installation by removing any nails, screws or other fasteners on the exposed studs. Mortar board should never be installed over gypsum board, so remove any existing wallboard covering the studs near the shower area. If you intend to use a shower pan, be sure to install it prior to installing the mortar board.
2. Attach asphalt-saturated felt to the studs using a staple gun. The material should be taut between the studs, with staples spaced every 6 to 8 inches covering the length of each structural member.
3. Screw the mortar board into place by attaching it to the studs using galvanized screws spaced every 6 to 8 inches. Leave a 1/4-inch gap around each piece of mortar board so it does not touch any other surface. Also avoid butting pieces of mortarboard together over corners; leave a gap instead.
4. Fill each gap between the pieces of mortar board with 100 percent silicone caulk. Use your finger to smooth each bead of caulk until it is flush with the surface of the mortar board. Allow the caulk to cure for at least 24 hours before installing ceramic tile.
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