Use and Care Guide

gENEraL INStaLLatIoN QuEStIoNS

Is the acrylic coated side of DensShield

Tile Backer installed face out?

Yes. The DensShield

Tile Backer panel should be positioned next to framing with the acrylic coated (grey)

side facing away from studs. Apply mortar or mastic and tile to the acrylic coated (grey) side of DensShield

Tile Backer panels. The built-in acrylic coating stops moisture penetration at the surface.

How do I score and cut DensShield Tile Backer?

DensShield Tile Backer may be cut cleanly by scoring and snapping with a standard utility knife, working from

the grey facing side of the panel.

Can I install DensShield Tile Backer either parallel or perpendicular to the wall framing?

Yes. The flexural strength of DensShield Tile Backer panels is approximately the same in both parallel and

perpendicular directions. This allows wall and ceiling applications to be installed either parallel or perpendicular

to the supporting members and results in fewer panel joints. DensShield Tile Backer can be installed over

both wood framing and steel stud construction by spacing fasteners 69 (152 mm) o.c. along studs for wood

or a minimum 20-guage (33 mils) steel framing.*

*For equivalent and effective guage steel studs, we have no evaluation or installation recommendations.

Can DensShield Tile Backer be used in non-tile wet area applications?

Yes. In many applications, DensShield Tile Backer is used for its moisture barrier and moisture-resistant

qualities for non-tiled walls and ceilings. There are several methods for finishing the panel depending on

the environment. The environments of non-wet, high humidity and wet areas are described in the DensShield

Tile Backer technical brochure (GP Item #622598). Each environment has its own finishing recommendation.

A finishing method must never be used in a more severe environment than described.

Will the surface coating and mat separate or delaminate from the core?

The copolymer surface coating is heat cured, will not liquefy and is bonded to the fiberglass mat and the

core. The fiberglass mats are mechanically attached by being embedded into the core during manufacture

of the board to help prevent delamination. DensShield Tile Backer is backed by a limited warranty against

delamination as a result of normal use conditions. For complete warranty details, visit www.DensShield.com.

What does it mean when Georgia-Pacific says DensShield panels have high

resistance to wicking?

Like fuel travels up a wick of an oil lamp, the same occurs when other tile backer boards are exposed to

water. When water wicks or travels up the board, it may not harm the board itself. But when it infiltrates

the wall cavity, moisture can cause many problems including, but not limited to, dry rot, rusting fasteners,

color change of tiles and wet insulation. Type 1 mastic loses its bond during prolonged wetting. When

insulation becomes wet, it loses its effectiveness. This does not mean, however, that DensShield Tile Backer

can be permanently immersed in water.

Does the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) recognize DensShield Tile Backer?

Yes. DensShield Tile Backer is found in 16 assemblies in the TCNA handbook for floors, walls, ceiling, tubs

and showers and is manufactured to meet ASTM C1178. Georgia-Pacific has long been a supporter of the

TCNA and is active in other industry associations.

6 DENSSHIELD Questions & Answers