Wall Tiling – Backer board

For wall tiling applications it is essential that the wall itself has sufficient inherent strength to hold the proposed tile and the adhesive being used.

The following chart lists the accepted maximum loadings for a variety of wall substrates. In all cases, it is advised that where wall boards, of any type, are used that the manufacturer be consulted for further guidance.

Wall Substrate                                                   Maximum tile weight
(plus adhesive and grout*)

Gypsum plaster                                                        20kg/m²
Plasterboard (gypsum) unskimmed                    32kg/m²
Plywood (exterior grade)                                       30kg/m²
Gypsum fibre boards                                              40kg/m²
Tile backer boards                                                   40kg/m²
Glass reinforced cement sheets                            50kg/m²

*Typically the weight of the adhesive and grout is 2-4kg per m².

Wall types vary considerably but all have the same basic need to be structurally sound, strong, smooth and level.

It is important to understand that tile adhesives are not designed to be a method of overcoming surface undulations and unevenness.

The specifications for various substrates and their stability are listed below. Should any other substrates be encountered, please contact the UltraTile Technical Department.