Why choose Hardie Backer Cement Fibre?

Autumn is here and winter is coming. Time for Tradesmen to move indoors. We get asked a lot of questions on HardieBoard so thought we would put the main queries onto this FAQs format page.

HardieBacker FAQs

  • Can I use HardieBacker® cement backerboard outside?

No. HardieBacker® cement backerboard is not suitable for external use.

  •  Do I need to treat HardieBacker® cement backerboard before tiling onto it?

No, HardieBacker® cement backerboard is ready to tile once installed – just wipe the boards down with a damp cloth to remove any dust prior to tiling.

  • What is the correct fixing pattern for installing HardieBacker® 12mm cement backerboard?

Fix HardieBacker® cement backerboard sheets on walls with HardieBacker screws for wood or for metal (as the substrate dictates) on all supporting studs at 200mm vertical centres. Keep fixings 15mm from vertical edges and 50 mm up/down from horizontal edges.

  •  Can I paint HardieBacker® cement backerboard?

Yes, HardieBacker® cement backerboard is suitable for a wide range of paint coatings. We do however recommend that you plaster the board first, to ensure the best possible finish.

  •  Where can I get a HardieBacker® score and snap knife?

At Southern Timber of course. You can order online here.

  • What is HardieBacker® cement backerboard made of?

It is made of 90 % Portland cement and ground sand, 10% cellulose and selective additives. It contains no asbestos, formaldehyde, gypsum or glass fibre.

  •  How do I cut HardieBacker® cement backerboard?

With a HardieBacker® score and snap knife, available here from Southern Timber.

  •  Can HardieBacker® EZ Grid™ 6mm be used in a shower wall application?

Yes. HardieBacker 6mm can be used on masonry or stud walls. If used on a stud wall, the perimeters of all boards must be fully supported, this may require the installation of additional horizontal noggins.

  •  How do I install vinyl tiles on the grid side of HardieBacker® board?

Use a compatible self-leveling compound, something like Ardex – Arditex NA. Apply a primer coat first of Ardex P51 diluted 1:3 with water. Then an approx. 3 mm coat of the Arditex NA. Please always refer to the suppliers installation guides and best practice.

  •  Can I install HardieBacker® EZ Grid™ 6mm on the wall?

Yes. However If you are installing HardieBacker® EZ Grid™ 6mm on the wall, you must ensure that all the edges of all boards are fully supported on battens, studwork or cross noggins. This will increase the supporting structure significantly, but is necessary if the product is to perform correctly.

  •  Which should I use, HardieBacker® EZ Grid™ 6mm cement backerboard or HardieBacker® 12mm cement backerboard?

HardieBacker 6mm is used on floors as it decreases the transition to other surfaces. It can also be used on masonry walls, or on a stud wall. When placed on a stud wall, an extra noggin is required. HardieBacker 12mm cement backerboard is ideal for using on stud walls and provides enhanced impact resistance. It can also be used on the floor if addition height build up is required. Both products hold up to 100kg m/2 of tile, so either or is appropriate for heavy tile.

  • Can HardieBacker® cement backerboard be used in wet areas?

Yes, HardieBacker® cement backerboard is the ideal product to install in wet areas as it is water and mould resistant. The boards won’t rot, expand or contract like plywood and plasterboard.

  •  Can I install HardieBacker® cement backerboard over linoleum or vinyl composite tile?

Yes, while it is better to remove all existing floor coverings and fix the HardieBacker® board direct to the substrate, HardieBacker® cement backerboard can be installed over linoleum or vinyl composite tile. James Hardie does not recommend you install HardieBacker® cement backerboard over cushioned vinyl but the boards may be installed over vinyl composite tile. Follow HardieBacker® cement backerboard floor installation instructions for complete details.

  •  Where can I buy HardieBacker® cement backerboard?

HardieBacker® cement backerboard is available from most leading builders merchants and tile shops. Please check the ‘Dealer Locator‘ tool to find the supplier nearest to you. If you have any difficulties obtaining the product please contact our UK Customer Service department on 0800 068 3103.

  • Can I use HardieBacker® cement backerboard to build up the level of a concrete floor?

No. The primary function of HardieBacker® cement board is to provide a water resistant flat surface to tile on, it is not designed for use over concrete.

  •  Can I use HardieBacker® cement backerboard in conjunction with under floor heating?

Yes, HardieBacker® cement backerboard is suitable for under floor heating. It should always be placed between the structural timber floor and the heating element. Never place heating under HardieBacker cement backerboard as there is a risk of damaging the system when fixing down the backerboard.

You can find more imformation, or buy, on our 6mm and 12mm pages.