Curious if anyone’s found a truly eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t involve hauling cement up stairs...
I’ve wondered about this too. I tried one of those recycled composite boards once—lighter than cement, supposedly mold-proof, but honestly, it felt flimsy. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather deal with the hassle of cement board than risk a redo in a year or two. Still, I keep hearing about magnesium oxide board as a greener option. Anyone actually used it long-term? I’m skeptical about the durability, especially in high-moisture spots.
I get where you’re coming from. I tried mag board in a laundry room reno last year—install was a breeze, but I did notice some edges chipped during handling. No mold or swelling so far, though. Still, I’d be cautious in a shower area... moisture’s tricky. Cement board’s heavy, but at least you know what you’re getting.
Cement board’s heavy, but at least you know what you’re getting.
- Totally get the appeal of mag board for quick installs, but yeah, those chipped edges are a pain.
- I’ve had a few clients ask about green board lately—honestly, I still lean toward cement board in wet zones, just for peace of mind.
- Have you ever tried green board behind tile in a shower? Curious if anyone’s seen long-term issues with it, or if it’s just old-school caution talking.
Green board’s fine for a lot of bathroom walls, but I wouldn’t trust it behind tile in a shower. Like you said,
That’s been my experience too. I’ve torn out a couple showers where green board was used behind tile—looked okay for a few years, but once water got through a grout line or a bad caulk job, the board started to swell and crumble. Not pretty.“I still lean toward cement board in wet zones, just for peace of mind.”
Here’s how I usually break it down for clients:
1. Cement board for anything getting direct water—showers, tub surrounds.
2. Green board’s fine for bathroom walls or ceilings that might see humidity but not direct spray.
3. If you want to go lighter, mag board’s an option, but yeah, those edges chip if you’re not careful.
It’s tempting to save a few bucks or make install easier, but fixing water damage later is way more expensive. I’d rather haul the heavy stuff in and know it’s done right.
I get the temptation to use green board everywhere, especially when you’re trying to keep costs down. But yeah, I’ve seen what happens when it’s behind tile in a shower—just doesn’t hold up long term. I did a budget reno in my last place and tried to cut corners with green board behind the tub. Regretted it after a couple years when the grout cracked and water got in... had to redo the whole thing. Cement board’s a pain to haul, but honestly, it’s worth it for the peace of mind. If you’re already spending money on tile, might as well protect it, right?
