Can You Use Cement Board Instead of Drywall for Your Next Home Improvement Project?

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

You’re trying to decide between using cement board or drywall for your next home improvement project, but you’re not sure which material is right for you.

Making the decision between the cement board and drywall can be difficult. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh all of your options before making a final decision.

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each material so that you can make an informed decision about whether can you use cement board instead of drywall or not, as well as which one is best for you.

Continue reading to learn whether or not can you use cement board instead of drywall for your next project.

Can You Use Cement Board Instead of Drywall: What Should You Consider?

When it comes to home improvement projects, there are many different factors to consider. 

One of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is what material to use for your project.

Cement board and drywall are two popular materials that are often compared against each other. So, which one is right for you?

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each material.

What is Cement Board and What are Its Pros and Cons?

A cement board, also known as the cement backer board, is a material made of Portland cement, sand, and water.

It is used as a backer for tile installations and as a substrate for thin-set applications. It is used as an underlayment for tile installations and other applications where a waterproof surface is required.

Pros:

• One of the pros of using a cement board is that it is water-resistant. This makes it a good choice for areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Another pros of using cement board is that it is incredibly durable. It can withstand impacts and is less likely to dent or scratch than drywall. Which makes it a good choice for high-traffic areas.
• Cement board is a good choice for tiles or floor installation because of its water resistance and durability
• The cement board is also fire-resistant, which makes it a good choice for areas where a fire might be a risk.

Cons:

• One of the cons of using cement board is that it is not very forgiving. If you make a mistake while tiling, it can be difficult to fix.
• A cement board is also a bit more expensive than a drywall. However, the benefits that it offers may outweigh the cost difference for some homeowners.
• It is a heavy material, so it can be difficult to handle and install. So it may be difficult to install in areas with limited access.
• The cement board is also not as easy to cut as drywall. You need special tools (such as a saw or grinder) to cut it, which can be difficult for the average homeowner.

What is Drywall and What are Its Pros and Cons?

Drywall, also known as wallboard or Sheetrock, is a material made of gypsum plaster and cardboard. It is used to create walls and ceilings in homes and buildings.

Pros:

• One of the pros of using drywall is that it is lightweight and easy to install. This makes it a good choice for homeowners who are doing a DIY project.
• You can find drywall in many sizes and thicknesses to accommodate your needs.
• Drywall is also inexpensive, which makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
• It is easy to cut and install, which makes it a good choice for novice home improvement projects.

Cons:

• One of the cons of using drywall is that it is not very durable. It can dent and scratch easily, which makes it a poor choice for high-traffic areas.
• Drywall is also not water resistant, which means that it is not a good choice for areas that are prone to moisture.
• It is also not fire-resistant, which means that it is not a good choice for areas where a fire might be a risk.

How to Choose Between Cement Board and Drywall?

Drywall is a popular choice for homeowners who are looking for an easy and inexpensive way to improve their homes. It is lightweight and easy to install, making it a good choice for novice home improvement projects. It is also easy to cut and comes in a variety of sizes, making it a versatile material.

However, one of the downsides of drywall is that it can dent and scratch easily. It is also not water-resistant, so it is not a good choice for areas that are prone to moisture. It is also not fire-resistant, so it is not a good choice for areas where a fire might be a risk.

On the other hand, a cement board is a good alternative to drywall for homeowners who are looking for a more durable and water-resistant material.

Even though cement boards are heavier than drywall, which makes them more difficult to install, there are a number of reasons why you might want to use them for your next home improvement project:

• Less prone to dents and scratches than drywall
• Fire-resistant
• Better option for floors because it is more durable than drywall
• Better option for tiles, as it’s made to take moisture and is stronger than drywall

However, there are some negatives about cement boards as well:

• Cement boards are more expensive than drywall
• They are also a lot heavier than drywall, making the installation process a bit more difficult

If you are not tiling, but just want to add some extra protection to your walls, you can use cement board as well. It will give your walls an extra layer of protection against moisture and is a good idea if you have kids or pets.

Overall, cement board is a better option than drywall for most tile and floor applications. It is more expensive than the drywall, but it is worth it for the added protection and durability.

Make sure you use the right type of cement board for your project to ensure a successful outcome.

FAQs

Why is Cement Board More Expensive Than Drywall?

Cement board is more expensive than drywall because it is a heavier and more durable material. It also offers fire resistance, which is a desirable quality for some homeowners.

What are the Sizes of Cement Board?

Cement board comes in a variety of sizes, but it is typically thicker than drywall. For tiling or floor applications, you will want to use a board that is at least 1/2 inch thick. And for walls, a 3/8 inch board is typically the thinnest you will want to go.

Which is a Better Option for Floors – Cement Board or Drywall?

Cement board is a better option for floors than drywall because it is more durable.

Can I Use Cement Board for Tiling Over an Existing Surface?

Yes, you can use either cement board or drywall for tiling over an existing surface, depending on the condition of the surface.

Which is a Better Option for Walls – Cement Board or Drywall?

Cement board is a better option for walls than drywall because it is more durable and water-resistant.

What Type of Cement Board Should I Use for My Project?

There are a number of types of cement boards, so make sure you use the right one for your project. If you are not sure, consult with a professional.

Final Thoughts:

While both cement board and drywall are common choices for home improvement projects, cement board is a better option for most tile and floor applications. It is more expensive than the drywall, but it is worth it for the added protection and durability.

We are here to help you every step of the way to make an informed decision about whether can you use cement board instead of drywall for your next home improvement project.

Remember to always consult with a professional before starting any project to ensure a successful outcome.

We hope you found this article helpful! Thank you for reading.