Installation Guide

ManualsBrandsJames Hardie ManualsFlooringHardieBacker 1/4 in. x 4 ft. x 8 ft. Cement Backerboard

WALL INSTALLATION

1 | Ensure framing is structurally

sound

• Must comply with local building

codes and ANSI A108.11.

• Use a minimum of 2 in x 4 in

wood studs or 20-gauge metal

studs, which must be straight,

properly aligned and spaced a

maximum of 16 in on center.

• In tub and shower enclosures,

ensure that the framing is

adequately reinforced at the

corners.

2 | Determine layout of HardieBacker cement board

• Boards may be installed vertically or horizontally.

• Edges of the board parallel to framing must be supported by a structural framing

member.

• Score and snap boards to required sizes and make necessary cutouts.

3 | Attach HardieBacker cement board to framing

• For interior installations, the use of a waterproof membrane, vapor barrier or vapor

retarding membrane is optional unless the local building code requires it.

• If required by the local building code, install a code compliant waterproof

membrane, vapor barrier or vapor retarder membrane, check with the membrane

manufacturer for suitability for applicable conditions and follow the manufacturer's

installation instructions for these materials.

• Install boards 1/4 in above ﬂoor, tub or shower pan and caulk accordingly.

• Fasten cement board with speciﬁed nails or screws (as listed in “Materials

Required”) a maximum of 8 in on center at all supports.

• Keep fasteners 3/8 in from board edges and 2 in in from sheet corners.

• Set fastener heads ﬂush with the surface, without overdriving.

4 | Tape joints prior to tiling

• Fill all joints with mortar (see “Materials Required”).

• Embed 2 in wide high-strength alkali-resistant glass ﬁber tape in the mortar

and level.

5 | Exterior application (Limited to HardieBacker 500 in HZ10 climate

zones)

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Additional details on page 4

• Install HardieBacker 500 over

sub-sheathing with a code approved

water-resistive barrier, or in

accordance with applicable code.

• May be used up to a height not

exceeding the lesser of: through the

second-story above grade or 30 feet

above grade.

• Follow wall installation steps 1 thru 4

3 | English