The professional’s choice
- Moisture & Mold Resistant
- EdgeTech® Reinforced Edge
- Easy to Cut
- Interior and Exterior Use
PermaBASE® Cement Board provides a durable surface designed to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture. Made with Portland cement, aggregate, and fiberglass mesh, it works well as an underlayment for tub and shower surrounds, countertops, flooring, and a variety of other interior and exterior applications. Lightweight and easy to install, our EdgeTech® Technology allows a closer nail or screw application.
Advantages
- Stays intact when exposed to water; will not rot, disintegrate, or swell.
- Achieves the industry’s lowest water-absorption rating (ASTM C473).
- Helps inhibit mold growth with the highest possible score on mold tests (ASTM D3273 and ASTM G21).
- Resists impact and remains dimensionally stable.
- Holds up to toughest conditions.
- Lightweight and easy to cut – speeds up installation and reduces job site waste.
- Durable substrate for direct-applied coating systems.
- Meets UL classifications for one-and two-hour fire-rated assemblies.
- Building code approved – one substrate that does the job of many.
Interior Applications
- For interior application information, click here.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty for Residential Interior applications.
- 30-year Limited Warranty for Commercial Interior applications.
Exterior Applications
- For exterior application information, click here.
- 15-year Limited Warranty for Exterior applications.
Video: PermaBASE® Cement Board
Video: PermaBASE Cement Board vs. Metal Lath Time Comparison Study
Specifications
Products that suit any project criteria
Product Details
Applications:
Shower, Sauna / Steam Room, Heat Shield, Kitchen, Fireplace, Floors, Bathtub, Accent Wall, Outdoor Living, Continuous Insulation, Cement Board Masonry Veneer, Cement Board Stucco
Edge(s):
EdgeTech® Reinforced Edge
Thickness(es):
1/2", 5/8"
Width(s):
32", 36", 48"
Related Resources
Product details and technical documentation
Tips & Tools
Detailed information to support your next project
Installation videos
Interior FAQs
What kind of fasteners do I use to install PermaBASE® Cement Board?
Corrosion resistant screw or galvanized roofing nails. Strongly suggest PermaBASE™ Cement Board Screws since they do not have nibs like competitor screws.
What do I tape the PermaBASE® Cement Board joints with?
2” Alkali resistant mesh tape and mortar mix.
What is the depth of fastener placement in wood and metal?
Long enough to go into woods studs ¾” and metal framing 3/8” (min. three threads).
When is it acceptable to install PermaBASE® Cement Board directly to the studs?
For all interior applications. For exterior jobs, PermaBASE® Cement Board should always be installed over a primary sheathing.
What is the required maximum stud spacing for walls?
16” o.c. for wood and metal.
What is the fastener spacing for interior wall applications?
Every 8” o.c. along the perimeter and field of board.
Exterior FAQs
What kind of fasteners do I use to install PermaBASE® Cement Board?
Corrosion resistant screw or galvanized roofing nails. Strongly suggest PermaBASE™ Cement Board Screws since they do not have nibs like competitor screws.
What do I tape the PermaBASE® Cement Board joints with?
4” wide alkali-resistant PermaBASE™ Cement Board Tape for all exterior applications.
What is the depth of fastener placement in wood and metal?
Long enough to go into woods studs ¾” and metal framing 3/8” (min. three threads).
What is the height limitation for installing PermaBASE® Cement Board in the CBMV/PB system?
Low rise residential or commercial applications. Higher heights may be approved by a design professional.
Should I install the board vertical or horizontal?
Both methods are approved as long as you stagger the joints.
Designs & Resources
Find product details and technical documentation in the Design & Resource Center.
Explore NowExpert Connection
Discuss your project with PermaBASE experts who can help guide your product selection.
Get In TouchNeed Technical Information?
Call 1-800-NATIONAL®
National Gypsum Company is the exclusive service provider for products manufactured by PermaBASE Building Products, LLC.