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.
When considering Schluter Kerdi, Redguard, GoBoard, and Laticrete Hydroban, there are distinct tradeoffs that include, price, performance, warranty, rigidity, and project schedule.
Determining the best system depends on the goals of your project.
Breakdown in 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 when beginning to plan a bathroom:
🍊 Schluter (Kerdi / Kerdi-Board)
Schluter Kerdi board is a XPS foam board with a fleece membrane. Kerdi by itself is just the fleece lining.
- 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 people discard the instructions, missing important waterproofing details. Kerdi-Board is 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. Or a project where speed is the main driver and you are willing to pay extra for a more "high-end" system.
🩸 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 quietly don't apply the RedGard, just tiling over the hardieboard. Cement board is not waterproof! I’ve ripped out plenty of black mold soaked hardieboard.
- Best For: Simple installations, budget-conscious renovations or those with extensive experience with the system.
🟦 GoBoard
- 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. There is a pro sealant for seams.
- If working on high end projects, I like adding Hydroban more waterproof protection to GoBoard. Yes, it might be seen as going above and beyond and may rustle the feathers of people who love cutting corners but the manufacturer, Johns Manville approves of the use.
- 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 if you need help.
