The Pros and Cons of Using Cement Board in 2025

13 May The Pros and Cons of Using Cement Board in 2025

Cement board is a strong and useful building material, often used under tiles and in wet areas. In 2025, it is important due to increased construction and stricter regulations for fireproof and water-resistant materials. However, it’s essential to consider the cement board disadvantage before making a decision.

Here are some key points:

1. The cement board market may grow from $8.15 billion in 2024 to $8.6 billion in 2025, indicating a steady 5.5% yearly growth.

2. More cities and new buildings require materials that are durable and safe.

3. New regulations now favor materials like cement board for fire safety and eco-friendliness.

Before using cement board, weigh its advantages against the cement board disadvantage. These factors include cost, installation difficulty, and how well it meets your specific needs. Understanding this will help you determine if its benefits outweigh the downsides for your project.

Key Takeaways

• Cement board is strong and lasts long. It works well in wet places like kitchens and bathrooms.

• It resists fire very well, making it a safe option for homes, especially with stricter fire rules in 2025.

• Cement board is flexible and good for tiles. But it is heavy and hard to install, so experts are often needed.

• It costs more at first, but it saves money later by needing fewer repairs and less upkeep.

• Always add waterproof layers with cement board in wet areas. This stops water damage and helps your project last longer.

Pros of Cement Board

Durability and Longevity

Cement board is very strong and lasts a long time. It is better than drywall because it doesn’t wear out quickly. Even in tough places, it stays solid and reliable. This makes it great for busy areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and stores.

It also keeps pests away. Bugs like termites can’t harm cement board, so it lasts longer. Using this material means fewer repairs and replacements, saving you money and effort. It handles tough conditions well, keeping your projects safe and sturdy for many years. This gives you peace of mind and good value for your money.

Fire Resistance and Safety

Cement board is great at resisting fire, which is very important. It doesn’t catch fire or help flames spread, making it safer for homes and buildings. In 2025, stricter fire rules make this material a smart choice for safety.

You can use it in walls, ceilings, and floors as a fire barrier. It protects people by giving them more time to leave during emergencies. Compared to wood, it’s much better at stopping fire. Builders and homeowners like it because it’s safe, strong, and useful.

Moisture Resistance in Wet Areas

Cement board works well in wet places because it resists water. It doesn’t bend, swell, or break when wet, so it’s perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. It also stops mold and mildew, keeping the air clean and healthy.

Here are some facts about its performance:

These facts show how well it handles water and humidity. While it may change size or lose some strength, it still works well in wet places. Its water resistance keeps your projects safe from damage.

Cement board also works nicely with tiles, making it very useful. Whether fixing a bathroom or adding outside siding, it performs well. It even matches with hardie board siding and james hardie siding, making it a top choice for many building projects.

Versatility for Various Applications

Cement board is a flexible material used in many projects. It works well for homes and businesses because it’s strong and reliable. You can use it where strength, water resistance, and durability are needed.

Here’s how it’s used:

For walls, it gives a tough base that fights water and wear. Floors in busy places stay strong and need fewer repairs. Ceilings are simple to install because it’s lightweight. In kitchens and bathrooms, it makes strong countertops that last longer than wood. Outside, it handles rough weather while staying sturdy.

This flexibility means you can use cement board almost anywhere. Whether fixing a house or building something big, it works well in all kinds of places.

Compatibility with Tile and Finishes

Cement board works great with tiles and many finishes. It gives a smooth, steady surface for a clean, polished look.

Here’s why it’s so useful:

When tiling, cement board keeps tiles from cracking by making seams strong. It’s easy to use with different glues, so anyone can install it.

You can pick the right size for your project, and it’s great for wet places like bathrooms. Cement board helps you get a clean, durable finish that looks great.

Whether tiling a bathroom or adding siding outside, cement board gives strong, lasting results. It works well with many finishes, making it a key material for today’s buildings.

Cement Board Disadvantage

High Material Costs

Cement board costs more than many other building materials. This can make it harder to stick to your budget. While it lasts a long time, the upfront cost can be high, especially for big projects.

Here’s a simple look at cost-related issues:

Regular upkeep can also increase costs over time. For example:

• Fixing damage often means replacing large sections, not small parts.

• Water damage can cause problems, leading to expensive repairs.

• Fiber cement boards might be cheaper and offer similar benefits.

Even though cement board costs more at first, it can save money later by needing fewer repairs. Think about these pros and cons to decide if it fits your budget.

Installation Complexity

Installing cement board can be tricky, especially for beginners. Unlike drywall, it needs careful cutting, drilling, and attaching. These steps require special tools and skills, which can raise labor costs.

A study showed cement board can save 35% installation time compared to older methods. But this only works if workers know how to use it correctly. Without experience, you might end up with uneven surfaces or mistakes in alignment.

To avoid problems, hire skilled workers. Though this costs more, it ensures the job is done right and prevents future issues.

Weight and Handling Issues

Cement board is heavy, making it hard to move and install. One sheet weighs much more than drywall or plywood. This can be tough in tight spaces or tall buildings.

You may need extra help or tools to handle the boards safely. Poor handling can cause injuries or damage, raising costs even more. For small projects, this might not be a big deal, but for larger ones, it’s important to plan ahead.

Despite these downsides, cement board is still popular because it’s strong and useful. Knowing its challenges helps you prepare and avoid surprises during your project.

Limited Flexibility for Certain Projects

Cement board is not good for flexible designs. Its hard structure makes it bad for curved or fancy shapes. If you want rounded walls or arches, it won’t work well. Unlike plywood or drywall, it doesn’t bend at all.

This stiffness can make installation harder. Cutting and shaping it for special designs needs special tools and skills. This takes more time and effort. For creative or unusual designs, you might need other materials that are easier to shape.

Tip: Use flexible drywall or fiber cement panels for curved designs. These materials are easier to shape and still strong.

Porosity and Waterproofing Requirements

Cement board is not fully waterproof. It handles water better than some materials but still lets moisture in. This can cause problems in wet places like bathrooms or kitchens. To fix this, you need to add waterproof layers during installation.

Here are some waterproofing tips:

• Crystalline waterproofing helps block tiny water paths in the board.

• Use waterproofing products for basements and foundations to keep them dry.

• Adding waterproofing extends the life of your project.

Without waterproofing, moisture can weaken the board and cause mold. This can damage your project over time. Always use a sealant or waterproof layer to protect it.

Note: Cement board works well in wet areas but still needs waterproofing. Skipping this step can lead to expensive fixes later.

Limited Insulation Properties

Cement board doesn’t insulate well. It doesn’t block heat or cold, so it’s not great for saving energy. If used on outside walls, it can raise heating or cooling costs.

This problem is worse in extreme weather. In cold places, it doesn’t keep heat in. In hot places, it doesn’t keep spaces cool.

To fix this, pair it with foam boards or fiberglass for better insulation. This keeps spaces comfortable but adds cost and work to your project.

Tip: If you need good insulation, try insulated panels or other materials. These options save energy and work better for temperature control.

Comparing Cement Board to Alternatives

Cement Board vs. Drywall

Cement board and drywall are very different materials. Cement board is strong and resists water, making it great for wet areas like bathrooms. But it is heavy, costs more, and is harder to cut. Drywall is light, cheap, and easy to install, but it breaks easily and doesn’t handle water well.

Here’s a simple comparison:

For dry spaces, drywall works better. For wet or busy areas, cement board is the smarter choice.

Cement Board vs. Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is another tough option. It handles bad weather, sunlight, and water well, making it great for outdoor use. But installing it is tricky and needs special tools. You might need experts to avoid problems like leaks, which can shorten its life.

Fiber cement siding has good points but also challenges. It costs more to install than vinyl siding. Its heavy weight means you’ll need more people to help. These issues make it harder for tight budgets or quick projects. Still, its long life and weather resistance make it a top pick for outside jobs.

Cement Board vs. Plywood or OSB

Cement board and plywood or OSB are used for different things. Cement board is best for places with water or heat. It stops mold, mildew, and fire, so it’s perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. Plywood and OSB are easier to cut and bend, making them good for curved designs or lighter structures.

Plywood and OSB cost less than cement board. But they don’t last as long in wet areas and can warp or rot. If your project faces water or high humidity, choose cement board. For cheaper or flexible designs, plywood or OSB is a better fit.

Cement board is strong, fireproof, and resists water damage. This makes it a good choice for many building projects. But it costs more, is heavy, and hard to install. Think about your project’s budget, design needs, and weather before choosing.

In 2025, people want eco-friendly and durable materials. Cement board is popular because it’s strong and useful. Research shows it works well for modern buildings. By looking at its pros and cons, you can decide if it’s right for your safe and lasting project.

FAQ

What tools do you need to cut cement board?

You need a utility knife, scoring tool, or circular saw with a carbide blade. For curved cuts, use a jigsaw with a carbide blade. Always wear a dust mask and goggles to protect yourself from cement dust.

Can you paint cement board directly?

You can paint cement board, but you must prime it first. Use a high-quality primer to ensure the paint adheres well. Without priming, the paint may not stick properly, leading to a poor finish.

Is cement board eco-friendly?

Cement board is not fully eco-friendly. It uses cement and silica, which require energy-intensive production. However, its durability reduces waste over time, making it a sustainable choice for long-term projects.

How do you waterproof cement board?

Apply a waterproof membrane or liquid sealant over the cement board. Focus on seams and edges to prevent leaks. This step is essential for wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.

Can you use cement board for outdoor projects?

Yes, cement board works well outdoors. It resists water, mold, and weather damage. Use it for outdoor kitchens, siding, or walls. Ensure proper sealing to extend its lifespan in harsh conditions.