How to install concrete backer board properly?

Question

I'm trying to install my concrete backer board/wonderboard on my kitchen floor. I put Self-Leveling underlayment on top of concrete to make the floor even. Now, my problem is, I don't know how to install these backer boards properly. I know how to cut the backer boards, but how do I drill them in. I used the drill and the motor is dieing out because I think it can't penetrate the concrete/self-leveling underneath it. I bought 1 1/4" durock/wonderboard screws. I tried s******g them in by hand, and it is very difficult. So I hammered them in first, then screwed it in. Is this how it's suppose to be done? I went to dome depot to buy a 13 amp drill, but they're too expensive. I am also unsure how to apply mortar properly. Thanks for any solutions.

Answer 1

The srews are for going into wood. Look for a fastener called Tapcon. The package will include a masonary drill bit for going into the concrete. You may decide to use thinset to help bond the board to the floor, this may allow you to use fewer fasteners. Keep in mind that the durability depends on a solid underlayment so keep trying until you find something that works.

Answer 2

Backer board is for walls and plywood sub floors. You shouldn't be using it on an existing concrete slab.

Answer 3

You are going to have to predrill the holes into the concrete the put the screws in. also make sure you are using the right kind of screws you want to use screws made to go throughmortarr also drill in the mortar and not the brick Good Luck

Answer 4

if you are tiling you can tile on the concrete you don't need the backer board. A little more information on what your final result is would help.  

Answer 5

You don't need backer board on a concrete floor.  If you used self-leveling concrete on a wood floor and it still flexes, you might get better results by using backerboard on top of the self leveling concrete.  Don't try to nail or s***w it down, though, just set it in thin set mortar just like you would set the tile.  Make sure you get it level.

You can cut the backer board by scoring it on both sides with a razor knife then breaking it, you can drill holes in it and you can cut it with any of various power saws with concrete blades in them.  It make a lot of dust so masks, ear and eye protection are musts.