How to use VJ panel behind vanity?

[throatgoat]

Looking at installing James Hardie Hardie Groove VJ panelling behind the vanity.

Do I need to waterproof this and if so is it better to lay cement sheet on the wall first and waterproof then lay the hardie groove on top or can we just lay hardie groove and waterproof and paint afterwards?

TIA

[MitchellMc]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news here @throatgoat, but unfortunately, Hardie Groove VJ panelling is not suitable for wet areas. These areas are typically defined as within a shower recess and also behind basins and vanities, where regular water splash is expected.

I have double-checked this directly with James Hardie Technical to be certain, and they have confirmed that Hardie Groove is not approved for use in these locations, even if it is painted or waterproofed. Because of that, installing a cement sheet first and then fixing Hardie Groove over the top would not resolve the issue, as the finished surface itself is still not suitable for a wet area.

In this situation, you would need to use an appropriate splashback behind the sink, such as tiles or another compliant waterproof wall lining, to meet manufacturer requirements and avoid potential moisture-related problems down the track.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell