We're giving our wood stove surround a makeover. We're going to build out the front with steel studs and cement board, then tile over it.
For the cement board, does one need to mesh tape the seams and corners? I know that's required for a wet install (such as a shower) but since this is a completely dry install, is that a required step?
If it is a required step, any tips? I've done it before for a shower, but it was a huge pain to get a final flat surface for the tile. I ended up with some slightly lumpy walls.
Best Answer
The thinset and mesh tape are to strengthen the seams. If you are going to tile over the cement board, you should tape the seams.
This should not be that difficult. Pack in thinset, lay on the tape, and flat-knife to get it set in. In the corners, use a corner knife.
If you just want to leave the corners untreated that will probably be fine, because that seam won't split the center of a tile.