KERDI-BOARD (1/2" thick) is Schluter's waterproof building panel — a lightweight alternative to cement board that eliminates the need for a separate waterproofing membrane. The panel itself is the substrate AND the waterproofing, which simplifies shower and wet-area construction significantly.

At 1/2" thick, this is the standard panel for most shower wall applications. It screws directly to wood or metal studs, gets sealed at the seams with KERDI-BAND, and you tile right over it. No backer board + membrane + more mortar. Just one product.

What makes it different from cement board

• Waterproof core: Extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam — water doesn't pass through it, period
• Cementitious coating: Both faces are coated with a reinforced cement layer that bonds with thin-set mortar
• Weight: ~0.72 lbs/sq ft vs. 3+ lbs/sq ft for cement board. One person can handle a 32" × 48" panel easily.
• Cuts with a knife: Score the cementitious face, snap the foam core. No dust, no special tools.

Common uses

• Shower walls (most popular use case)
• Tub surrounds
• Steam shower enclosures
• Custom niches, benches, and curbs (with thicker 2" panels)
• Partition walls and half-walls
• Vanity and countertop substrates

Installation

• Attach to studs with KERDI-BOARD-ZS screws + washers (max 12" on center)
• Seal all seams with KERDI-BAND set in thin-set mortar
• Seal inside corners with KERDI-KERECK pre-formed corners
• Tile directly with Schluter SET, ALL-SET, or FAST-SET mortar
• No vapor barrier needed behind panels

Specs

• Thickness: 1/2" (12.7 mm)
• Core: Extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam
• Faces: Reinforced cementitious coating
• Weight: ~0.72 lbs/sq ft
• Waterproof: Yes — entire panel
• Fire rating: Class A (ASTM E84)

Pairs with

• KERDI-BOARD-ZS screws + washers
• KERDI-BAND sealing strip
• KERDI-KERECK inside/outside corners
• KERDI-BOARD-SN niches, KERDI-BOARD-SB benches, KERDI-BOARD-SC curbs