USG Durock 1/2 in EdgeGuard Cement Board (3x5) Review (2026)
By The DIYPicks Team · Updated July 2026
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- Wall tile
- Bathroom floor
A rugged, water-durable cement board that is the classic choice for shower walls and for adding 1/2 in of floor height. Tougher and thicker than fiber cement, at the cost of a dustier cut and more weight.
Pros
- Aggregated Portland cement core is highly water-durable, a proven substrate for showers and tub surrounds
- EdgeGuard reinforced edges resist crumbling and spin-out when driving screws near the perimeter
- 1/2 in thickness adds rigidity, the usual pick for walls and for building floor height up to meet adjacent surfaces
Cons
- Cutting means score-and-snap with a lot of gritty dust, or a carbide blade, messier than fiber cement
- Heavier and thicker than 1/4 in board, adding noticeable height and weight on a floor
- Still not inherently waterproof, wet walls need RedGard or a Kerdi membrane over it
Specifications
| Type | Cement board (aggregated core, fiberglass mesh) |
|---|---|
| Base | Floors and walls |
| Thickness | 1/2 in |
| Coverage | 15 sq ft (3 x 5 ft) |
| Edge | EdgeGuard reinforced edges |