Review: Schluter vs. RedGard vs. GoBoard
Choosing a waterproofing system is one of the most debated topics when it comes to bathrooms. Each system has its fans but in reality, the most important part, no matter what system you end up going with, is making sure that it is installed properly. For projects in 2026, GoBoard with Hydroban is the winner.
Breakdown for 2026
Having some more extensive bathroom renovations over the past year has changed my opinion of the products that I will be using in 2026:
🍊 Schluter (Kerdi / Kerdi-Board)
- The Pros: It’s a complete ecosystem. From drains to niches to uncoupling membranes, everything is designed to work together. The sheets are extremely lightweight and easy to cut and install.
- The Cons: One of the most expensive options. There is also an extensive proper detailing list that might get missed when installing, especially by those who haven’t installed it before. The biggest problem is that it is marketed as a simple system and some builders discard the instructions, missing important waterproofing details. The board is also a slightly malleable foam and so there is an opportunity for the install to get wavy or feel like it has some flex.
- Best For: High-end residential projects and steam rooms where a full system warranty is a priority.
🩸 RedGard On Hardieboard
- The Pros: Cost-effective and extremely versatile. Since it’s a paint-on liquid, it’s simple to get the waterproofing down once the hardieboard is installed. There’s no ticky-tacky parts that need to be lapped properly.
- The Cons: Labor-intensive. I personally hate cutting hardieboard as it dulls blades and throws dust all over. You need multiple coats to reach the required thickness, and you have to wait for it to cure between coats. It can also be messy and prone to issues if applied too quickly. Some installers try to save money and nix the RedGard and tile over the hardieboard but cement board is not waterproof. I’ve ripped out black mold soaked hardieboard.
- Best For: Simple installations, budget-conscious flips or those with extensive experience with the system.
🟦 GoBoard With Hydroban
- The Pros: An affordable backer that is speedy with the ease of cutting and installation. It’s lightweight but sturdy and waterproof through the core. If working on high end projects, I like adding Hydroban more waterproof protection.
- The Cons: The board is made out of fibreglass and so it can be itchy so make sure to wear long sleeves. While it’s gaining popularity, it lacks the history or warranty that the other options have.
- Best For: The whole range of projects from high end to more budget conscious bathroom projects.
Other Options
There are other options on the market that include Wedi, Sentinal Board, and Laticrete. I haven't used the following but have opinions from exploring them as options.
Sentinal, from Floor & Decor is an affordable alternative to Kerdi. It suffers from the same flex that kerdi-board does but doesn't come with the Schluter warranty. Would be a good options for a DIYer who wants the lightweight and clean install that comes with Kerdi at a fraction of the price.
Latacrete Hydroboard is a fantastic option that I am going to look into using in 2026. It's more expensive than GoBoard but doesn't have the fiberglass cutting issues that GoBoard has when installing.
Your Bathroom
When researching bathroom waterproofing systems, it might seem overwhelming. The waterproofing system preference might be determined by the tiler (if you are planning on using one) or what is locally available. If you want any opinions on waterproofing systems or are thinking about renovating your bathroom, don't hesitate to reach out to me.