proper name for cement based sheet for useing in showers?

Cement board is the "generic " name used . The 2 most popular brand names on the market are Wonder Board ( the original and invented 1st) and Durock( my personal favorite ) . Then there is a cementrous and fiber backer board called Hardibacker.. Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar and check my qualifications there.. GL

There are two brands commonly sold in the US: Hardibacker and another, I think it is called "Durabacker" or something close to that. Either will work for your application. If they don't have Hardibacker just buy the other one don't waste time. "Durabacker" isn't the exact name but all it is, is a better board than Hardibacker but, unless you are building or refurbishing a million dollar home don't worry about it.

For cutting, you must use a breather mask and carbide tipped blades, which will wear out very quickly. Hardibacker can dull a blade in just a few cuts. So what do you do? You can't do anything that I know of except have extra blades around. And it is heavy to work with and don't drop it as it will crack.

And finally, you need screws for concrete board, to put it up. You can't use regular drywall or building screws they just snap into peices and shear off.

Good luck, and may the force be with you my son!

It is cement backer board which comes in 2 thicknesses-1/4" used as underlayment on floors and 1/2" for walls. It comes in 3' x 5' sheets. Use this on the wall in a shower at least 6' up from the drain opening. The screws are available wherever they sell the cement board. You can go to the manufacturer's site for installation instructions.

http://www.jameshardie.com/homeowner/products_back...

The stuff you are probably thinking of is Hardibacker board, although I believe that Knauff makes a similar product. You can get Hardibacker at Topps tiles, Jewsons or WallsandFloors.co.uk

Being cement based its tougher stuff to cut than gypsum board, and its in smaller sizes so your studs need to be at closer spacings.

There are many brand names. Including hardi backer, Durrock, Wonder board, Perma base, and my favorite Wedi-board.

Backerboard.

"Cement board" and used in conjuction with a moisture barrier works wonderfully. (in most states is now a code requirement.)

Concrete backerboard. heavy duty stuff, much harder to cut than drywall.