Green board in the news - worth the hype for bathrooms?

Curious if anyone’s tried those newer waterproof backer boards? I haven’t tested them yet - wondering if they’re worth the extra expense or if it’s just marketing hype.

I’ve actually put in a few of those foam-core waterproof boards (like Wedi and Kerdi) on some higher-end jobs, and I’ll say this: they’re a dream to cut and install, especially compared to lugging cement board up a flight of stairs. But yeah, the price tag stings. For me, it’s about peace of mind - if you’re dealing with a shower that gets daily use or a bathroom with sketchy ventilation, the extra cost can save you from tearing out soggy drywall down the road.

That said, I still see green board used in places it really shouldn’t be, like inside tub surrounds. It’s wild how many folks think “moisture resistant” means “waterproof.” Learned that lesson the hard way early on.

Have you ever tried shimming out those wavy old walls before putting up your backer? Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth the hassle or if I’m just being too picky about flatness.

I get the appeal of those fancy foam boards, but honestly, I just can’t justify the cost for my own projects.

the price tag stings

- yeah, that’s putting it mildly. I’ve had decent luck with cement board and a good waterproofing membrane over it. Maybe it’s not as light or quick, but it’s way easier on the wallet. As for shimming, I usually just live with a little wonkiness unless it’s really bad. Sometimes “good enough” is actually good enough, especially if you’re not flipping the house or anything.

I get where you’re coming from with the cement board and membrane route - it’s a solid, budget-friendly option and I’ve done plenty of bathrooms that way. But honestly, after flipping a handful of places, I’ve started to see the value in those pricier foam boards, especially if you’re doing a bunch of showers or tight timelines. Here’s how I look at it:

1. Time is money. Foam boards go up fast, and you don’t have to mess around with heavy sheets or as much dust.
2. They’re super flat out of the box - less shimming, less “good enough” moments that might bug you later.
3. Waterproofing is built-in, so you’re not gambling on your membrane job holding up.

Yeah, the upfront cost stings, but if you factor in your time (or paying someone else), it can even out. I used to think “good enough” was fine too, but then I had to redo a tub surround after a small leak. That was not fun... Sometimes paying more at the start saves headaches down the road. Just my two cents - depends what your priorities are.

Green Board In The News - Worth The Hype For Bathrooms?

Man, I’ve been burned by “budget-friendly” more times than I care to admit. One time I tried to save a few bucks with green board behind a tiled shower wall - let’s just say it didn’t end well for my socks or my sanity. There’s nothing like stepping into a puddle in your own bathroom at 7am to make you reconsider your life choices.

I get why people love foam boards, though. They’re light, they cut like butter, and you don’t end up looking like you’ve just wrestled a bag of cement by the end of the day. But dang, that price tag… It’s like every time I reach for one at the store, my wallet lets out a tiny scream.

Honestly, if it’s a quick flip or you’re doing a high-end reno where time is tight and perfection matters, foam boards are hard to beat. But if you’re on a shoestring and have the patience of a saint (and maybe some good waterproofing skills), cement board still gets the job done. Just don’t trust green board alone in a wet area unless you enjoy surprise indoor lakes.

Green Board In The News - Worth The Hype For Bathrooms?

- 100% agree, green board just isn’t up for the job in a real wet zone. I tried it once behind a tub surround (figured the tile and grout would be enough), and yeah... ended up redoing the whole thing after a year. Mold city.
- Foam boards are awesome for ease of use, but that price tag is wild. I always feel like I’m paying for convenience more than durability.
- Cement board is a pain to cut and haul, but it’s still my go-to if I’m not splurging on foam. Just gotta wear a mask and prep for the mess.
- If you’re really pinching pennies, I’ve seen folks use green board with a legit waterproof membrane over it (like RedGard or Kerdi). Not ideal, but better than nothing if you’re careful.
- Honestly, I think green board’s fine for bathroom walls away from direct water - like above wainscoting or behind vanities - but never in a shower or around a tub.

Funny how “budget-friendly” can end up costing more in the long run. Learned that one the hard way too.