Does anyone forsee a problem with putting cement backerboard over 3/4″ hardwood and then laying tile. The room is about a 9′ X 9′ bathroom. I can only think that the hardwood would expand and contract more than plywood. Should I rip up the hardwood and put down 7/8″ plywood? This would be difficult because the hardwood extends under a shower pan and a whirlpool tub. What do you think?
Thanks
Replies
Rip it up. youll gain anywhere from 1/2 to 3/4 an inch above the hardwood when you add tile. This will cause problems with doors, toilets and transition heights.
If you decide to rip it out, look for a toe-kick saw. You can see a picture on Amazon. Maybe you can rent one. It is a power saw that will cross-cut flooring right at the toe-kick, or in your case the shower pan. You can remove the flooring in the main floor, but leave the flooring under the shower and the whirlpool.