Green board has always felt like a “good enough” shortcut, but in practice, it just doesn’t hold up where it counts. I remember doing a client’s guest bath years ago—builder had used green board behind the tub surround, and we found soft spots and black mold when we demoed. Not pretty. Cement board’s heavier and messier to cut, sure, but it’s bulletproof compared to green board. For showers or main baths, I just don’t risk it anymore. PVC’s fine for quick fixes or utility rooms, but if you want something to last, tile over cement board is worth the hassle.
I get where the hype comes from—green board’s lighter, cheaper, and easier to hang. But honestly, I’ve seen too many “shortcut” jobs come back to bite folks. Here’s how I break it down:
- Green board’s fine for low-moisture spots (think powder rooms), but anywhere near a shower or tub? Not worth the risk.
- Cement board’s a pain to cut, yeah, but it just doesn’t fail the way green board does. Mold and soft spots are dealbreakers for me.
- If you’re flipping or planning to hold a property, you want durability. Cement board under tile is just peace of mind.
I’ll admit, I’ve used green board in a pinch, but every time I do, I end up worrying about callbacks... Not worth it in the long run.
Green board’s fine for low-moisture spots (think powder rooms), but anywhere near a shower or tub? Not worth the risk.
Couldn’t agree more here. I’ve seen too many bathroom renos where green board looked fine at first, then a year later—soft spots and bubbling paint. It’s just not built for those wet zones, no matter what the packaging says. Cement board is heavier, yeah, but once it’s up, you don’t have to stress about moisture sneaking in behind your tile. I’d rather deal with the hassle up front than rip out a soggy wall down the line.
It’s just not built for those wet zones, no matter what the packaging says.
Tried green board behind my first shower because the guy at the store said it was “water resistant.” Big mistake. Six months in, I noticed the grout lines getting weird and when I poked at the wall, it felt mushy. Had to tear it all out. Cement board’s a pain to cut, but I’d never risk green board again near water. Just not worth it.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually used green board in a couple of bathroom renos—just not in direct wet areas like showers. Behind tile in a dry bathroom wall, it’s held up fine for years. Maybe it’s all about placement and using the right waterproofing over it? Cement board is definitely tougher, but sometimes feels like overkill outside the shower itself.
