The advent of cement backer board has made it possible for do-it-yourselfers to lay tile like a pro. The reason: For most installations, it eliminates the need to set tile in a thick bed of mortar.

Q. I'm getting ready to buy backer board for a ceramic tile project. There are different types out there, and I'm a little confused. Which backer boards would you use and which would you avoid? You've ...

The tile itself will be your biggest cost, so start by measuring the square footage of the floor. Then add 10 percent for cutting waste. If you choose a more complex layout than the simple grid ...

Q: I'm getting ready to buy backer board for a ceramic tile project. There are different types out there, and I'm a little confused. Which backer boards do you use ...

Cutting backer board, especially if it's a gypsum-core backer board, is done with a razor knife. Score the surface with the razor and then snap the board, creating a clean line. Then use the razor to ...

James Hardie Building Products Inc. has introduced the HardieBacker Cement Board with HydroDefense Technology, a backer board that is engineered to help protect kitchen and bathroom tile installations ...