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Tile Backer Boards UK | NoMorePly, Hardiebacker & Jackoboard Explained

Tile Backer Boards Explained: NoMorePly, Hardiebacker & Jackoboard

If you want a tiling job to last, it all starts with the right preparation — and that means choosing the correct tile backer board.

Whether you're a tiler, builder, bathroom installer or flooring specialist, using a high-quality tile backer board for floors and walls is essential for preventing movement, cracking and moisture damage.

At Tiles & Stone Direct, we stock leading brands including NoMorePly, Hardiebacker and Jackoboard - all trusted by trade professionals across the UK.

What Is a Tile Backer Board?

Tradesman installing cement backer board using drill for tiling preparation on wall

A tile backer board provides a stable, durable and moisture-resistant surface for tiling.

They are used to:

  • Strengthen subfloors and walls
  • Prevent tile movement and cracking
  • Improve longevity of tile installations
  • Provide a base for waterproofing systems

If you're tiling onto timber, plasterboard or uneven surfaces, a cement backer board or waterproof tile board is essential.

NoMorePly – Lightweight Strength for Floors & Walls

Modern bathroom with marble tiles, walk-in shower enclosure and vanity unit

NoMorePly® is a premium fibre cement board system designed to provide a reliable foundation for tiling.

Why Trades Choose NoMorePly:

  • Lightweight and easy to cut
  • Strong and stable under load
  • Prevents tile movement and cracking
  • Ideal for floors, walls, bathrooms and kitchens
  • Backed by a lifetime guarantee

NoMorePly is particularly popular for floor tiling over timber substrates, where movement is a common issue.

It’s a go-to solution for tilers who want speed, reliability and long-lasting performance.

Hardiebacker – Industry-Leading Cement Backer Board

Hardiebacker cement board close-up showing tile backer board surface for tiling

HardieBacker® is one of the most recognised names in tiling preparation — known for its strength, durability and moisture resistance.

Made from cement and sand, it provides a rigid, long-lasting surface for tile installations.

Key Benefits:

  • Moisture and mould resistant
  • Extremely durable and impact resistant
  • Fire-rated (A1 non-combustible)
  • Suitable for wet rooms, bathrooms and showers
  • Ideal for walls, floors and underfloor heating systems

Available in:

  • 6mm boards – for floors and overlays
  • 12mm boards – for walls and stud partitions

Hardiebacker is the perfect choice when you need a robust, professional-grade tile backing system.

Jackoboard – Waterproof Systems for Wet Rooms & Bathrooms

Jackoboard Plano tile backer boards showing sizes for waterproof bathroom and wet room installation

If you're working in high-moisture environments, Jackoboard® offers a complete waterproof tiling system.

Made from extruded polystyrene (XPS) with a cement coating, Jackoboard combines lightweight handling with full waterproof performance.

Key Benefits:

  • 100% waterproof core
  • Excellent thermal insulation
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Direct tiling without priming
  • Suitable for walls, floors and wet areas

Popular Applications:

  • Wet rooms and walk-in showers
  • Bathroom walls and floors
  • Shower enclosures
  • Tileable furniture and structures

Product Range Includes:

  • Plano boards – flat tile backer boards
  • Aqua systems – wet room shower trays
  • Flexo boards – curved structures
  • Canto & niches – pre-formed solutions

Jackoboard is ideal for creating fully waterproof, professional wet room installations with minimal hassle.

Which Tile Backer Board Should You Choose?

It depends on your project:

  • NoMorePly → Best for flooring and general tiling projects
  • Hardiebacker → Best for strength, durability and structural stability
  • Jackoboard → Best for waterproofing and wet room systems

In many cases, trades will use a combination depending on the job.

Why Tile Backer Boards Are Essential

Skipping proper preparation is one of the biggest causes of tile failure.

Using a tile backer board system helps:

  • Prevent cracked tiles and grout
  • Improve adhesion performance
  • Protect against moisture damage
  • Extend the lifespan of installations

Simply put — it’s not optional if you want a professional finish.

In Stock Across 7 UK Stores

We keep all major tile backer board brands in stock, so you can get what you need, when you need it:

👉 No delays
👉 No chasing stock
👉 Just pick up and get on with the job

And if you're unsure which board to use, our team is always happy to help with a free cuppa and a biscuit! 

Shop Tile Backer Boards Online or In Store

Whether you're working on floors, walls or wet rooms, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Shop tile backer boards
👉 Browse waterproofing systems and preparation products
👉 Find your nearest Tiles & Stone Direct store

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