I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had decent luck with foam panels in a couple of bathroom jobs, even in older homes. Prepping the framing right makes a big difference—if things are solid, that flex you mentioned isn’t really an issue.
True, but I’d argue sometimes the new stuff holds up just fine if you don’t cut corners. Cement board’s a beast to haul around, especially solo... foam’s way easier on the back. Just depends what you trust more, I guess.“Sometimes the classics win out, even if they’re a pain to install.”
I’ve had the same debate with a few contractors—foam vs cement board vs green board. From an investment angle, I’m always weighing cost, labor, and long-term headaches. Foam panels are definitely easier on the back and faster to install, but I’ve noticed some buyers still get nervous if they don’t see “the classics” behind the tile. Maybe that’s just old-school thinking, but resale value matters.
Have you run into any warranty issues or callbacks with foam? I’m curious if it actually performs as well over 5-10 years. I’ve only done a couple flips using foam, and no complaints so far, but most of my properties still end up with cement board just for peace of mind.
Green board’s getting a lot of buzz lately too—anyone actually seen it hold up in a shower area long term? I keep hearing mixed things about moisture resistance. Always feels like there’s a tradeoff somewhere...
Tried green board in my own bathroom once—regretted it after a few years. The shower corners started looking sketchy, even with “moisture resistant” claims.
Yep, especially when you’re pinching pennies. Cement board’s a pain but at least it’s drama-free.“Always feels like there’s a tradeoff somewhere...”
Yep, especially when you’re pinching pennies.
Cement board’s a hassle, but I’ll take that over green board headaches any day. Tried to “save” with green board once—ended up ripping it out after mold showed up. If you’re doing a wet area, just bite the bullet and go cement. Less landfill waste in the long run, too.
If you’re doing a wet area, just bite the bullet and go cement.
I get where you’re coming from, but I actually had a pretty good run with green board in my half-bath. Didn’t have any issues, though I was careful about sealing everything up. I know it’s not meant for soaking-wet spots, but for walls outside the direct shower spray, it seems fine if you’re on a budget. Cement board is solid, just feels like overkill for every single wall. Maybe it depends on how much water your bathroom sees?
