I get that it’s tempting since it’s cheaper and lighter, but after seeing what happens behind tile when water sneaks in… not worth it.
- Totally agree, green board just doesn't cut it for showers.
- I tried it once in a half bath (no tub or shower), and even there, a slow leak around the toilet flange did it in after a few years.
- Foam backer is pricey, but carrying cement board up old, narrow stairs is a pain... my back's still mad at me from last winter.
- Never seen green board last more than 3–4 years in a real wet area. Maybe with perfect waterproofing, but that's a gamble.
- For me, peace of mind is worth the extra bucks.
I hear you on the back pain—hauling cement board is no joke, especially in tight spaces. I’ve always been wary of green board in wet zones, even with the “moisture resistant” label. It just doesn’t hold up when water inevitably finds its way in. That said, I’ve seen some folks swear by newer waterproofing membranes over regular drywall. Has anyone here actually had long-term success with that combo, or does it just delay the inevitable? I’m curious if there’s a middle ground that’s not as heavy as cement board but still reliable.
Green board in the news—worth the hype for bathrooms?
Yeah, I get where you’re coming from. I tried the membrane-over-regular-drywall route in a powder room a few years back—no shower, just a sink—and it’s held up fine. But honestly, I’d be nervous about that setup in a full-on shower. Cement board’s a pain to lug around, but at least it gives me peace of mind. Has anyone messed with those foam backer boards? They’re lighter, claim to be waterproof, but I haven’t seen enough real-world feedback to trust ’em yet...
I get the hesitation with foam boards, but honestly, I’ve used Wedi panels in a couple of shower renos and they’ve been rock solid. Way easier to cut than cement board, and no dust everywhere. Just gotta make sure you seal the seams right—don’t skimp on that step. I’d pick them over green board for anything with real water exposure.
I totally get the appeal of Wedi panels—cutting cement board is basically a workout and a dust storm rolled into one. But I’ll admit, I’m still a bit old-school about green board in low-moisture spots. For full-on showers though? Foam boards like Wedi or Kerdi are just way less hassle, especially if you’re trying to keep things clean and efficient.
Here’s my go-to process for a shower:
1. Measure twice, cut once (seriously, those panels aren’t cheap).
2. Dry-fit everything before you even think about adhesive.
3. Use the manufacturer’s sealant on every seam and screw head—don’t try to save a few bucks here, water finds every little gap.
4. Double-check corners and transitions; that’s where leaks love to start.
I’ve seen green board hold up okay behind tile in powder rooms or half-baths, but for anything with daily soaking? Not worth the risk or the landfill waste if you have to redo it later. Plus, foam boards are lighter—your back will thank you after a long day.
