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Cement board
Cement board is a rigid panel made of portland cement and reinforcing fibers, used as a backer for tile in wet areas.
Why it matters
Unlike drywall, cement board does not deteriorate when exposed to moisture, making it essential behind shower and tub tile.
Where people get this wrong
Cement board is water-resistant but not waterproof. It still needs a waterproofing membrane over it before tiling.
Real-world example
The tile installer screws cement board to the shower wall studs, then applies a liquid waterproofing membrane before setting tile.
Where this hits your build
This hits during the selection phase. Choices here affect layout, daily use, and maintenance. Samples and measurements matter more than catalog photos.
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