S
simhopper
I've not experienced anywhere near that difference in price. I agree that the frame requires sufficient batons, but when you have formed an access panel it doesn't take much more effort to add a couple more batons to eliminate flex.
Hardi, Wedi, Kerdi or any other tile backer board will be better than ply as long as the frame is structured well.
Hardibacker £7.50 a sheet+vat, 2 required
Wedi bathboard £55+vat for 1800x800
Foam board or cement board?No brainer really
Used to be a big fan of Wedi but the price is too high and there are far superior products out there