Whether finishing an interior shower surround, detailing an exterior stucco wall or installing a thin stone veneer system, substrate performance can make or break a project. Field-fabricated components and improper fastening techniques often lead to moisture damage, cracking and costly insurance claims. Factory-engineered cement board solutions offer superior reliability, but only when installed according to proven best practices.
In this episode, host Nolan Kondrich connects with JD Cohen, PermaBASE market development representative for the Southeast, to explore the core principles of cement board installation. Bringing nearly 20 years of National Gypsum expertise to the conversation, JD breaks down proper board thickness, taping requirements, moisture management and the crucial science behind alkali resistance.
The cement board advantage: How factory-built rigid substrates made of Portland cement aggregate and glass mesh eliminate the fabrication failures associated with traditional wire lath, saving time, reducing materials and meeting ANSI A118.9/ANSI A108.11 standards.
Interior shower surround essentials: How cement board excels in wet areas, why 1/2" board thickness is mandatory for wall applications (never 1/4") and why installers must leave a 1/4" gap above the shower pan ledge to prevent wicking.
Exterior stucco performance: How PermaBASE serves as a drop-in replacement for metal lath and scratch to save labor, keep job sites clean and provide high-impact resistance compared to standard EIFS.
Thin stone and brick veneers: Strategies for bringing order to the exterior adhered veneer market, including the critical role of secondary drainage planes for moisture management and proper architect/engineer involvement for control joint placement.
The alkali factor: Why alkali-resistant screws and joint tape are critical when working with cement board and how Portland cement alkalinity can break down standard materials over time.
Watch PermaBASE installation videos
Explore the PermaBASE resource page
Learn more about PermaBASE® Cement Board products
Listen to Episode 13: The Complete Guide to Waterproof Cement Boards
Do you have a question you'd like us to answer or a topic we should cover? We want to hear from you. Email your ideas to podcast@nationalgypsum.com.
Find all NGConnects™ Podcast episodes at nationalgypsum.com/podcasts.
National Gypsum Company is the exclusive service provider of reliable, high-performance building products manufactured by its affiliate companies and marketed under the Gold Bond®, ProForm® and PermaBASE® brands.
The National Gypsum name has been synonymous with high-quality, innovative products and exceptional customer service since 1925.
The information provided in this podcast is for general information purposes only. For specific building or design questions, please consult with the 1-800-NATIONAL® Construction Services team or your regional National Gypsum construction design manager. Always use products according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
