Durock Directions

Prefabricated paneling has become the standard for interior walls, but with so many kinds of paneling on the market it's important to know how to choose and install the paneling properly. Durock paneling is designed for applications where a strong, water-resistant material is needed, and is most commonly used in bathrooms. You can achieve great results with Durock wall paneling using the right tools and techniques.

• 1

  Put on safety glasses.

• 2

  Measure the size of the Durock to be cut with a tape measure and mark the top and bottom points of the line to be cut with a pencil.

• 3

  Hold a straightedge against the Durock, and make a straight line between the two marked points.

• 4

  Score the line with a utility knife using the straightedge as a guide. Score the opposite side of the Durock in this same way.

• 5

  Hold the scored Durock piece against a flat surface with the area to be removed hanging over the edge. Press down on the Durock against the flat surface while pressing down on the area to be removed until the area to be removed snaps off.

• 6

  Smooth any rough edges that did not break off evenly with a wood rasp.

• 7

  Mark any areas to be cut out for plumbing fixtures with a pencil.

• 8

  Cut out the holes for plumbing fixtures with a power drill using a hole-saw bit.

• 9

  Smooth any rough edges in the cut-outs with a wood rasp.

• 10

  Place 1/4-inch shims around the base of the wall where the Durock is to be installed. Durock requires a 1/4 inch gap at its base for proper installation.

• 11

  Fasten the Durock to wood studs at 16 inches with wood screws using a power drill. Leave a 1/8-inch gap between panel edges.