EasyMat vs backerboard for tile underlayment

[mlh1936]

I was told by one expert to use EasyMat (sold at HD) for my bathroom tile floor underlayment. I went out and bought a roll only to have another expert tell me if I didn't use backerboard instead that my tile would crack. Help! I would appreciate some authoritative advice on this subject? Thanks.

[luvrbus]

I have never used EasyMat but I have Gator Mat the Gator mat is used on concrete floors to stop the cracking and a moister barrier and I don't believe either product has any strength with out a solid backing like wonder board   good luck

[coachconverter]

I use both, and both from HD, but I tend to overdo things.

I actually start off with hopefully at least 1/2, preferably 3/4 plywood subfloor, I cover that with a liquid rubber membrane (from HD, I think it's called Red Guard, comes in a gallon bucket for $44), roll that out with a roller about 1/8" thick.  While the Red Guard is still slightly wet, I then screw down the concrete board with screws called "Rock-on", they work great.  Once secured, lay down some adhesive and then your Easymat and let dry.  Once dry, start laying tiles. 

I know this is really a lot of overkill, but that rubber material absorbs vibrations from transferring from plywood to concrete board, but is dense enough to support it well.  Plus, if you have any squeaks in the floor below, you wont after using that.  And it's watertight, so your flooding at least stays off your plywood, if it ever gets that bad.

So far, no complaints!

HTH

Todd

p.s. Did I mention I hate cracked grout lines?

[FloridaCliff]

I have used the backerboard in mobile and fixed applications with great results.

As stated previously, the subsurface is just as important.  Tile cracks from movement of the subsurface it is attached too.  Get that right and your halfway there.

In the coach I only attach the tile with the mastic adhesive, It is much more forgiving than thinset to vibration. (my experience)

Like Coachconverter, I tend to overkill a little, but, have you ever tried to add backerboard once the tile is down???           

Once and done!

Best of luck on your install,

Cliff