Q. I'm getting ready to buy backer board for a ceramic tile project. There are different types out there, and I'm a little confused. Which backer boards would you use and which would you avoid? You've ...

The advent of cement backer board has made it possible for do-it-yourselfers to lay tile like a pro. The reason: For most installations, it eliminates the need to set tile in a thick bed of mortar.

Q–We are getting ready to install new ceramic tile in a shower and bathtub area. It appears that there are several materials to use beneath the ceramic tile. Some of the products are specially treated ...