Where Science Meets Simplicity

More than three decades ago, the journey of our backerboard technology began inside the innovation labs of Dow Chemical. At the time, builders and contractors faced a common challenge: traditional cement boards were heavy, hard to handle, and prone to absorbing moisture. Dow’s materials engineers saw an opportunity to solve that problem with lightweight composites and waterproofing science.

Through years of experimentation, the first generation of lightweight backerboards was created — strong enough to support tile, yet light enough to install easily. These early products quickly gained traction with major manufacturers, including National Gypsum, who adopted and expanded the technology for the construction industry.

Over time, the idea grew beyond just making boards lighter. We introduced integrated waterproofing layers, which eliminated the need for multiple steps during installation. The breakthrough was the 5-inch overlap system, designed to exceed industry standards for watertight seams, giving contractors a faster, more reliable way to build showers.

Today, that same innovation continues under the KotyShower brand. Our products have evolved into a complete shower system — pans, drains, backerboard, and waterproofing — all engineered to work together. What began at Dow as a materials experiment has become a trusted, contractor-ready solution used in homes, remodels, and commercial builds across the country.

From the labs of Dow Chemical to bathrooms everywhere, our mission has remained the same: make building showers simpler, stronger, and leak-free.