Plasterboards, known as drywall or gypsum boards, are widely used in building and renovation projects. Selecting the right type of plasterboard can be essential for achieving the desired durability, fire resistance, soundproofing, and moisture protection.
This guide will cover the most common types of plasterboards, their applications, sizes, and pros and cons to help you make an informed choice.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Plasterboards, also known as drywall or gypsum boards, are essential for walls and ceilings in construction. Key types include water-resistant for bathrooms, insulated for energy efficiency, fire-resistant for safety, acoustic for soundproofing, and impact-resistant for durability.
They come in various sizes and thicknesses suited to different applications. Plasterboards are easy to install, cost-effective, and versatile but can be water-sensitive, prone to cracking, and less durable than traditional plaster.
Choosing the right plasterboard enhances insulation, fire safety, and soundproofing while ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish.
What Is Plasterboard?
Plasterboard, often called drywall or gypsum board, is a construction material made from gypsum pressed between two layers of paper. It’s primarily used for building internal walls and ceilings.
Unlike traditional wet plastering, which demands skill and time, plasterboard installation is fast and straightforward. This efficiency has made it popular in residential and commercial building projects.
Key Features Of Plasterboard
- Easy Installation: Lightweight and straightforward to handle, reducing labour costs.
- Smooth Finish: This creates a flat surface ideal for painting or decorating.
- Versatile: Various textures, patterns, or curved designs can be used.
Common Uses Of Plasterboard
Plasterboard’s versatility makes it suitable for numerous applications in construction:
- Walls: Provides smooth, even surfaces, perfect for painting or wallpapering.
- Ceilings: Lightweight boards make them easy to install overhead.
- Partitions: Ideal for creating non-load-bearing walls in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
- Soundproofing and Fireproofing: Special types like acoustic and fire-resistant plasterboards offer enhanced noise reduction and fire protection.
- Insulation: Thermal plasterboards help regulate indoor temperatures, enhancing energy efficiency.
- Moisture Resistance: Water-resistant plasterboards are designed for damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens, preventing mould and mildew.
These qualities make plasterboard a go-to material in modern construction. It offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal while being cost-effective and easy to work with.
Types Of Plasterboard
There are various plasterboard types, each designed for specific functions. Here’s a closer look at the most commonly used types:
1. Water-Resistant Plasterboards
Water-resistant plasterboards are ideal for areas exposed to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. These boards are treated with additives to prevent water absorption, reducing the risk of damage and mould growth.
- Applications: Suitable for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and protected outdoor spaces.
- Features: Resistant to moisture; prevents damp and mould build-up.
- Limitations: Must be installed correctly to avoid weakening or deterioration.
2. Insulated Plasterboards (Thermal Plasterboards)
Insulated plasterboards offer energy efficiency by providing an additional layer of thermal insulation. They are designed to keep indoor spaces warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Applications: Commonly used in homes, offices, and industrial buildings.
- Features: Enhances energy efficiency and reduces heating and cooling costs.
- Limitations: Typically more expensive than standard plasterboards.
3. Fire-Resistant Plasterboards
Fire-resistant plasterboards are manufactured with materials that slow down the spread of fire. They are essential in areas that require extra fire safety measures.
- Applications: Used in fire-prone areas, such as kitchens and near electrical panels.
- Features: Fire resistance rating varies from 30 minutes to up to two hours.
- Limitations: Heavier and more expensive than standard boards.
4. Acoustic Plasterboards
Acoustic plasterboards are specifically designed to minimise sound transmission through walls and ceilings. Their denser core absorbs and reduces sound.
- Applications: Ideal for home theatres, music rooms, and office spaces.
- Features: Reduces noise by blocking sound waves; available in various thicknesses.
- Limitations: Thicker boards can be challenging to install and may require more support.
5. Impact-Resistant Plasterboards
Impact-resistant plasterboards have a denser core that can withstand heavy impacts, making them more durable and suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Applications: Perfect for schools, hospitals, and busy commercial areas.
- Features: High durability, strength, and resistance to damage.
- Limitations: Typically more costly and heavier than standard plasterboards.
Sizes And Thickness Of Plasterboard
Plasterboards come in various sizes and thicknesses to cater to different construction needs. The standard dimensions vary depending on the intended use:
- Width: Ranges from 0.9 to 1.2 metres.
- Length: Typically between 1.8 to 3.6 metres.
- Thickness: Commonly ranges from 9.5 to 12.5 mm for walls, with fire-resistant boards reaching up to 15 mm.
Choosing The Right Thickness
- Ceilings: Use 12 to 12.5 mm plasterboards to support light fixtures and insulation.
- Walls: Standard thickness is 12 mm for residential walls.
- Bathrooms and Kitchens: Opt for water-resistant plasterboard of similar thickness to prevent moisture damage.
Best Plasterboards For Specific Areas
Selecting the right plasterboard type for each part of your home or building is crucial for optimal performance.
Best Plasterboard For Ceilings
Lightweight plasterboards are often sufficient for typical home ceilings. However, acoustic plasterboards may be ideal if sound insulation is necessary, such as for a room below a noisy area.
In moisture-prone areas, like kitchens or bathrooms, opt for water-resistant plasterboards.
Best Plasterboard For Bathrooms
Bathrooms require plasterboards that can handle high levels of humidity. Water-resistant plasterboards are the best choice here, as they are designed to prevent moisture absorption and mould growth.
Plasterboard For Walls: To Use Or Not To Use?
While plasterboards are not always mandatory for wall construction, they provide a smooth, even surface that is easier to paint or decorate. Traditional wet plastering is an alternative but requires more skill and time to achieve the desired finish.
Pros And Cons Of Using Plasterboard
Like any building material, plasterboard has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Easy to Install: Lightweight and manageable, making it quick to install.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than traditional plastering techniques.
- Versatile: Suitable for various applications, including walls, ceilings, and partitions.
- Sound and Fire Resistant: Offers excellent soundproofing and fire resistance when the appropriate type is used.
- Durable: Long-lasting materials that can resist damage from impacts and daily wear.
Cons
- Water Sensitivity: Vulnerable to water damage if exposed for extended periods.
- Cracking: Prone to cracks if not installed properly or subjected to movement.
- Shorter Lifespan: This doesn’t last as long as traditional plaster, especially in high-impact areas.
- Difficult to Repair: Repairs can be costly and time-consuming.
- Environmental Impact: Made from gypsum, a non-renewable resource, the production process releases greenhouse gases.
Installation Tips For Plasterboard
Proper installation of plasterboard is crucial for its durability and performance. Here are some quick tips:
- Use the Right Type: Choose plasterboards suited to the specific area, such as water-resistant for bathrooms and fire-resistant near electrical panels.
- Secure Fixing: Ensure plasterboards are fixed securely using appropriate fasteners to avoid movement and cracking.
- Joint Treatment: Properly treat the joints between boards to create a seamless finish.
Conclusion
Plasterboard is a versatile, cost-effective solution for modern construction. It offers various options tailored to specific needs, such as moisture resistance, fire safety, soundproofing, and impact resistance.
Selecting the right type of plasterboard can significantly impact the performance and longevity of walls and ceilings.
Understanding plasterboard types, sizes, and features ensures you make the best choice for your project, enhancing its quality and durability.
Whether renovating a bathroom or constructing an office partition, the appropriate plasterboard can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish.
