Chicago, IL – USG Corporation (“USG”), an industry-leading manufacturer of building materials and innovative solutions, proudly announces the launch of USG Fiberock® Brand AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard — the latest innovation in its growing portfolio of high-performance tile backer solutions. Designed for contractors who want a better way to waterproof tile installations, Fiberock® AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard is lighterweight, clean-cutting and engineered for high performance in wet and dry areas.
“AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard is a smarter way to achieve waterproof installation without all the extra weight, mess and material cost, vs. traditional tile backers,” Anson Johnson, Vice President, Gypsum Materials, USG Corporation. “We listened to the needs of pros who are looking for easier, more cost efficient installs and developed a panel that delivers just that.”
A game-changer for wet-area installations
Developed through USG’s building science expertise, Fiberock® AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard is a monolithic gypsum fiber panel that is waterproof when tested in accordance with ANSI 118.10 (Section 4.5), meeting the needs of tile and flooring contractors seeking efficiency and durability without sacrificing performance.
Unlike traditional waterproof panels, AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard features a proprietary, homogenous composition that is waterproof not just on the surface, but throughout the entire backerboard. This allows it to meet stringent hydrostatic pressure testing with no visible penetration over 48 hours.
Key Features:
● Waterproof to its core: Uniform composition is durable, with no surface facer to scratch, tear or delaminate
● Easy to cut, carry and install: A lighterweight alternative to traditional tile backerboard that cuts clean, with less mess
● Less total material cost: Treat only the seams and fasteners to complete waterproof installation
● 0.42-inch panel thickness: Designed for easier handling and improved compatibility with modern substrates
● Application versatility: For use under tile, stone, vinyl, hardwood, laminate and carpeting—its smooth surface can even be painted for seamless wall transitions in wet areas
● Superior tile bond strength: Suitable for floors, walls and countertops in both wet and dry environments
“The tile industry has been waiting for this type of innovation,” said Johnson. “We’re helping professionals and DIYer’s alike trade heavy, cumbersome solutions for something smarter. And at a more competitive cost to achieve waterproofness, AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard just makes sense.”
A solution that has contractors’ backs
Fiberock® AquaSmart™ was engineered with pros in mind. Backed by a 20-year limited warranty, USG gives contractors the confidence they need when failure is not an option.
From waterproofing innovation to trusted support and warranty protection, USG delivers products that help contractors protect both their projects and their reputations.
“When we say we have your back, we mean it,” said Johnson. “AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard underscores USG’s commitment to creating solutions that support contractors with the performance they demand and the reliability they count on, allowing pros to focus on doing their best work.”
USG Fiberock® AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard will is now available nationwide. Learn how AquaSmart™ Tile Backerboard works smarter, not harder, at www.usg.com/wehaveyourback.
# # #
About USG Corporation
USG Corporation is an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions. Headquartered in Chicago, USG serves construction markets worldwide through its Gypsum and Ceilings businesses in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. USG wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing, roofing, and interior finishing products enable customers to build outstanding spaces where people live, work and play. For additional information, visit www.usg.com.
