The Advantages of Using Wedi Board over Cement Board

When initiating a bathroom build, how do you decide which tile backer board is best for the job? That depends not only on the building budget, but how long you want the bathroom floors and walls to last. When choosing the appropriate backing for bathroom renovations, it’s important to prevent moisture issues posed by wet rooms. Indeed, any builder with integrity plans ahead to avoid leaks and mold disasters for themselves and all homeowners.

Wedi board and cement board are two common choices for bathroom wall and floor preparation. Wedi board is a foam board covered with a layer of cement-resin coating with fiberglass mesh. Cement board is made from cement and sand and is reinforced by fiberglass mats on both sides. Both materials are used for waterproofing bathrooms, showers, and floors.

However, even though cement board is resistant to water and mold, it still requires extra waterproofing measures. In contrast, Wedi board comes ready to install and 100% waterproof and weatherproof.

Although cement board is sturdy and doesn’t deteriorate when wet, it is very heavy to handle. Wedi board is far lighter and therefore, easier to handle and install. For example, one square foot of ½ inch thick cement board weighs approximately 40 ounces while the same in Wedi board weighs about 75% less.

Wedi also offers an ideal bonding surface, won’t warp, and yet remains pliable, unlike cement board. The potential for wall damage is also minimized when workers carry the lighter Wedi board panels into a home, unlike weighty cement board.

Wedi and cement backing can both be cut with power saws, as well as by scoring and snapping. Then again, many people forget to consider the mess of cutting the Wedi board versus the mess of cutting the cement board. Cutting cement wreaks havoc on labourers’ lungs with dust and debris flying through the air. The Wedi results in very little air-born particulate, and is thereby less hazardous in the workplace. Adjustments can also be made with a straightedge and utility knife with Wedi.

Next, Wedi board can be ordered online and shipped anywhere economically. In comparison, heavy cement board is only available for pick-up in-store.

When we compare the price, Wedi is more expensive, up to three times as much as cement board.  Nevertheless, builders and remodelers can appreciate that the finished project will also last; would-be mold and seepage problems are virtually eliminated.

Proper preparation is essential to avert costly repairs. Selecting Wedi board for your shower build comes with far more advantages than disadvantages. Therefore, Wedi is an ideal choice for the substrate of any moisture-filled bath and shower area in the home. Ask an informed store associate for more details on this versatile material.