Marley Eternit report more installers upgrading to fibre cement

With the peak summer season for replacing bathrooms and kitchens approaching, Marley Eternit is encouraging installers to look at the benefits of using fibre cement tile backing boards. A number of installers have already switched to fibre cement backing boards such as Hydropanel because it makes a huge difference to the ongoing performance of the installation, especially where there are high levels of moisture. It is well known that gypsum based boards are not suited for tiling in wet areas. If gypsum becomes wet during the construction or utilisation phase, it can loose its cohesion, attract fungi/bacteria and start to smell (Reference Belgium Building Research Institute Technical Information 227). In many European counties the use of gypsum based boards is forbidden in high moisture environments due to the degradation of Gypsum when it becomes wet. In the UK several housebuilders now install tile backer boards in kitchen and bathroom applications Hydropanel fibre cement board is totally water resistant, making it the perfect upgrade for bathrooms, showers and even wet rooms – anywhere where there is moisture present. Even if completely saturated in water, it won’t rot or warp, which means that tiles stay in place. The water simply evaporates from the board and because Hydropanel is slightly alkaline it inhibits the growth of mould, preventing development of ‘fusty’ odours. Ultimately, upgrading to fibre cement tile backing boards can therefore mean a better quality installation and a more satisfied client. "Reputation and referrals make all the difference to kitchen and bathrooms installers, which is why we advise them not to compromise with when it comes to tile backing boards," said Jayne Arkell, Business Development Manager – Hydropanel at Marley Eternit. "Our Hydropanel product is totally water resistant – and that means tiles stay in place even if completely saturated." Intensive tests involving exposure to the harshest conditions of humidity constraints have proven that Hydropanel fibre cement boards are able to maintain their stability and rigidity in extremely harsh environments. Hydropanel, which is available from merchants and stockists nationally, is offered in 6mm, 9mm and 12mm board thicknesses. The 900 x 1200 one man board sheet is ideal for domestic applications, refurbishments and new build.

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