Hardie fiber cement board, also known as HardieBacker, is used under tile in homes and is mold resistant. It generally comes in 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch thicknesses and is sold in 3-by-5-foot sheets and 4-by-8-foot sheets. It can easily be cut to size with a utility knife and provides superior protection against moisture growth. Installing HardieBacker is similar to installing other types of flooring. With screws and fasteners made specific for HardieBacker, installation can be accomplished and the lifetime warranty can take effect. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Inspect the subfloor to make sure everything is properly intact. Make sure there is no damage to the floor. Check that the floor is clean. Lay out a stud finder to verify the joist spacing is no more than 24 inches on center.
2. Measure the area of the room to determine how many sheets of fiber board will be needed. Multiply the width by the length to get the total square footage. Each fiber board piece is 15 square feet. Divide the total square feet of the room by 15 to figure out how many sheets will be used. Add a few extra for cuts that may need to be made.
3. Lay out the boards covering the entire room without fastening anything down. Leave a 1/8-inch space in between each piece. Position the sheets 1/8 inch back from the walls and cabinets in the room. Cut the boards to size with a utility knife. Measure and mark where the cut will be made and line up a T-square along the mark. Score the board with a utility knife by running it along the T-square and snap the board.
4. Remove the sheets and spread a layer of mortar 1/4 inch thick over the entire room. Spread it out evenly with a square-notched trowel. Lay down the first piece of cement board beginning at a corner of the room. Press it down firmly into the mortar and fasten it down with HardieBacker screws, spacing them every 8 inches over the entire surface and making sure to keep them 3/8 of an inch from the edge of the board and 2 inches from the corner.
5. Lay out the next piece and continue around the entire room in the same process using the sheets just as they were previously lined up. Continue around the entire room making sure to leave a 1/8 inch gap in between the pieces and the walls. Drive the screws in so they are flush with the surface.
