When And Where Would You Use Plasterboard?

Plasterboard, which is made from a panel of calcium sulphate dihydrate (gypsum), often has a facer and a backer. It's used for the partitions and ceilings within. Drywall became popular as a time-saving alternative to traditional lath and plaster.

Gyprock, gypsum board, wallboard, and plasterboard are all frequent names for the same thing—plasterboard, one of the most widely used building materials in the world. It is now widely used as an interior wall and ceiling cladding in both homes and businesses. Despite its ubiquitous use, this product is astonishingly misunderstood.

Before plasterboard was introduced to the market, a substance with similar properties but containing asbestos fibres was commonly utilised.

Asbestos's negative health effects became more widely known, it was replaced by plasterboard. Plasterboard is made from gypsum and has heavy paper laminated to both sides.

Plasterboard sheets typically measure 2.4 by 1.2 metres and 13 millimetres in thickness.

You can choose to have the board's edges be completely straight or somewhat rounded. With the boards taped and fastened to the wall or ceiling, the bevelled edges make it easy to smooth out the surface with plaster.

Plasterboard of some kind is needed for every dry lining project.

There are several various kinds of plasterboard, and the one you require will depend on your specific circumstances.

Plasterboards can be made from a wide range of materials, each imparting its own distinct set of properties.

For example, many plasterboards are treated with chemicals that make them fireproof.

For the sake of building codes pertaining to fire prevention, soundproofing, and energy efficiency, plasterboard is often employed.

Condensation and the damage it can cause are two more issues that can be avoided if you instal these in a high-humidity environment.

A professional plasterer can give even the largest wall or ceiling a faultless finish.

After painting, the wall gives the impression of being smooth.

The Basics of Plasterboard: What You Need to Know

All the fundamentals of working with plasterboard are covered in this tutorial. We also discuss the many types of plasterboard available and how to choose the right one for your next construction or renovation job.

When searching for the best wall panels, there are a few factors to keep in mind.

Plywood, hardboard, fiberwood, and plasterboard are just few of the building materials you can select from that span a wide range of quality levels.

Plasterboard is a common building material for both residential and commercial buildings.

Using the right plasterboard is crucial for both aesthetics and security reasons.

It's also important to take advantage of the unique qualities of the walls, ceiling, or both, such as their ability to block out noise, keep out moisture, or contain a fire.

The different types and uses of plasterboard, as well as its dimensions and thickness, will all be discussed in this primer.

Our guide will help you if you are interested in learning about plastering or if you just wish to plaster a wall or ceiling.

The Plywood Background

• I was wondering if there were any other terms for drywall. Plasterboard can also be known as gypsum board, drywall, wallboard, or wall panels. Commercial plasterboard is marketed in the United Kingdom under the GTEC and Gyproc names.
• Plasterboard is used when? Partitions, wall linings, and ceilings can be made from plasterboard in any building, from offices to classrooms to homes. It is also possible to utilise modern, high-tech plasterboards for outside sheathing.
• To what end should plasterboard be employed? A number of benefits can be gained by using plasterboard. It starts with a smooth surface that can be decorated. Because of its portability and ease of assembly, it can also be utilised to construct elaborate yet practical details like curving walls. It can also be used as a temporary measure to meet the standards for thermal, acoustic, and moisture performance set forth by the Building Regulations.

Varieties of Plasterboard

Plasterboard, in its standard form, is highly fireproof, acoustically insulating, and so on.

Plasterboard is not suggested for use in damp areas, and there are other options available with greater acoustic or thermal performance.

While every producer gives their wares a distinctive moniker, some examples are:

• Flame-resistant wallboards
• Acoustic or sonically functional drywall
• Boards that insulate well against the cold
• Perforated plasterboards combine acoustic performance with appealing look, making them ideal for usage in areas where sound reverberation is an issue, such as atriums, foyers, restaurants, and other such public areas.
• Materials that can withstand impacts, such as plasterboard
• Plasterboards are useful for damp proofing and condensation prevention.
• Similarly, only a select few plasterboards, such as Weather Defence, are suitable for use as external sheathing.

While there is a wide range of variance, the following are some common sizes:

• 1800mm x 900mm
• 2700mm x 900mm
• 2400mm x 900mm
• 2700mm x 1200mm
• 3000mm x 1200mm
• 2400mm x 1200mm

Thicker plasterboard is available for certain purposes, such as increased thermal efficiency, better soundproofing, and fire resistance.

There are many different types of plasterboard available, however some of the most common are listed below.

• High-density plasterboard is useful in high-traffic areas, such as commercial or public buildings, because it provides additional protection against accidental damage. Typical components of such boards include fibreglass and thick paper.
• External: Modern exterior sheathing boards are ideal for providing effective outside insulation. Plasterboards intended for the outdoors are often made to be completely watertight and airtight to withstand any climate.
• Since stud walls use more combustible materials than masonry walls, fire-resistant plasterboard is a practical solution and, in some cases, a must for construction regulations.
• Plasterboard with an added insulation layer, often known as insulated or thermal plasterboard, reduces heating and cooling costs without significantly increasing the overall wall thickness. The insulation material is layered between the board layers.
• Water-repellent chemicals used in the production of totally water-resistant plasterboard provide a solution to the problem of wetness that occurs on external walls.
• Plank: a thicker variety of plasterboard available from a variety of manufacturers, plank plasterboard is commonly used in public areas such as stairwells, corridors, and elevator shafts. A high wall thickness makes for a very soundproof and thermally insulated wall.
• Normal plasterboards have a slight propensity to transmit some sound, but acoustic or sound-resistant plasterboard does an excellent job of dampening ambient noise. In order to prevent noise, soundproof boards often have a much higher density.
• Some types of plasterboard offer a combination of desirable qualities, such as being both acoustically and acoustically dampening. Many of the leading brands also provide handy extras like fireproofing.
• When looking for the highest level of moisture resistance in a plasterboard, vapour-resistant options are your best bet. Plasterboards designed to prevent moisture vapour transmission sometimes include a foil backing.

A further characteristic is the edge of the plasterboard. Straight-edged plasterboards are the most convenient to work with, although some companies also provide boards with tapered edges. A tapered edge on the plasterboard makes it much easier to quickly cover a large area.

How much force may be exerted upon plasterboard?

Know that a plasterboard has a high load capacity before you buy it. We'll discuss this and take a look at how much pressure a drywall nail can take.

Plasterboard walls can normally hold 20 kg per square metre of weight, though this varies depending on the type of plasterboard you purchase.

A nail in drywall can probably only hold a few kg. Some varieties of plasterboard, however, will be more sturdy than others due to the components used.

Some varieties of plasterboard are better equipped to handle heavier loads than others because to their unique construction. Plasterboard's load-bearing capacity might vary depending on factors like its size and thickness.

Just what are the ingredients in a sheet of plasterboard?

You may be wondering what exactly is on the board.

Plasterboards typically feature gypsum, the primary component of standard wet plaster, as their sturdy core material.

In 1915, when archaic and inefficient building practises were still the norm, British Gypsum was founded as one of the pioneering firms responsible for the invention of plasterboard.

Glass wool, foams, paper, and fibrous plastics are some of the other materials utilised in production.

Light boards, ideal for walls and ceilings, may be manufactured by manufacturers, who may also improve the boards' effectiveness by adding chemicals to make them resistant to fire or mould.

Plasterboard has a face paper layer, making it ready for finishing touches like plaster after installation.

Some types of plasterboard do not require any additional preparation before they can be painted or wallpapered.

Plaster and wallboard can be manufactured using gypsum sourced from a number of different places.

Organic gypsum

Typically, gypsum is found in its rock form. It is mostly mined in the counties of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Sussex in the United Kingdom.

Gypsum is a white rock that can take on a variety of colours when impurities are introduced. Calcium sulphate dihydrate, also known by its scientific name, contains 71% calcium sulphate and 21% water by weight.

Artificial gypsum

Synthetic gypsum is also produced incidentally in a variety of manufacturing processes.

Plasterboard gypsum is mostly sourced from flue-gas desulphurization (FGD) of power plant emissions. Fossil fuel power stations typically have scrubbers installed inside their exhaust stacks. Scrubbers like these significantly reduce sulphur dioxide emissions by removing sulphur from waste gas. This process generates gypsum as a by-product. This variety of gypsum is also known by the name "desulphogypsum" (DSG).

• Titanogypsum – a by-product of titanium dioxide production (a whitening agent used in many products from paint to toothpaste).
• Phosphogypsum – a leftover from the production of fertilisers with phosphate bases and phosphoric acid.
• Fluorogypsum – a by-product of hydrofluoric acid production, is employed in many industries, including the production of electronic components.

What Kind of Drywall Should I Use in the Lavatory?

Bathrooms require special plasterboard that can withstand moisture, so we'll go through that here. First, though, we should discuss the benefits of using this particular type of plasterboard in a bathroom.

Plasterboard that is resistant to moisture or water is the best and only choice for a bathroom.

Water-resistant plasterboard is necessary in bathrooms since other types of plasterboard would be degraded and damaged by the moisture.

To counteract the effects of moisture, this drywall is manufactured with silicone additives and water-repellent liners.

Using Plasterboard for Construction

Plasterboard wall cladding is a sensible DIY project for minor renovations. It is possible to break or slice drywall panels with a utility knife and then saw them to size. The hardware store or plasterboard supplier in your area should carry all the nails, tape, plaster, and other necessities.

Although working with plasterboard poses no known health risks, it is best to keep dust levels as low as possible. A simple, disposable "paper" face mask will do the trick.

Because gypsum might cause eye irritation, protective eyewear is also highly suggested. Drywall sheets are heavy and easily damaged, so two workers are usually needed for installation. Large-scale renovations, particularly if you want to plaster a ceiling, are probably best left to the pros.

The Ceiling Plasterboard Decision

Soon, we'll have a discussion on which type of plasterboard is ideal for ceilings. The advantages of this drywall kind will also be discussed. Regular plasterboard or wallboard is the best starting material for ceilings.

Be sure to measure your ceiling and buy wallboard accordingly. If the ceiling is in a damp space like a bathroom or kitchen, for instance, you should select plasterboard that is resistant to water.

If your ceiling is low, you can reduce the amount of noise that travels upward by installing acoustic plasterboard.

The Function of Plasterboard

Plasterboard is commonly used for interior partitions and for covering up existing walls and ceilings. Plasterboard comes in a variety of forms, and while they all serve an insulative purpose, some of them offer a number of additional benefits.

Among the many places where you'll find plasterboard in use are:

• Residences for the elderly and other nursing care facilities
• Local Real Estate
• Apartments and multi-family structures
• Hospitals\sLibraries
• Places of business
• Schools
• Shops

Skimming an old wall after installing plasterboard is faster than prepping and plastering a wall from scratch, and plasterboard is an excellent alternative to wet plaster. To avoid the need for plastering altogether, you could use tape and jointing compound throughout the taping and jointing process.

Plasterboard screws are, in a nutshell, exactly what you think they are.

Plasterboard screws are the following topic (drywall screws). Black in colour, these screws feature countersunk pozidriv heads. A variety of screw lengths should be used, all of which are dependant on the thickness of the sheetrock or drywall being fastened.

If the drywall is 9.5 millimetres thick, use screws that are 32 millimetres in length. For sheet rock that is 12.5 millimetres thick, use screws that are 38 millimetres in length.

Plasterboard screws aren't like regular screws. They are designed to be used with plasterboard, hence they are normally made of case-hardened steel.

What is the Recommended Plasterboard Thickness?

Plasterboard with a thickness of 13 millimetres is common in commercial construction in Australia, while 10 millimetres is the standard in residential construction. It is also available in 16mm for uses that necessitate higher fire ratings and 6.5mm for use on curved walls.

With so many options, it's best to consult experts when deciding on plasterboard thickness and type. They can help you find the best options within the constraints of your project's requirements and budget.

How Square-Cut Boards Differ from Those With Tapered Edges

Plasterboard often comes with either square or tapered edges (TE) (SE plasterboard). However, boards with a tapered edge are ideal for taping and jointing, while square-edged boards are great for skimming finishes. Several types of speciality boards are available, and they all require square edges.

So, Which Side Should I Plaster?

There is often a brown side and a grey side to gypsum boards. In light of its intended use for plastering, the grey side should be displayed (skimming). Paper liners are great for the environment because they are often made from recycled paper.

Cut Plasterboard Like a Pro?

In this section, we'll discuss the proper technique for cutting plasterboard. Moreover, we'll have a look at the instruments and protective equipment that must be used.

Plasterboard is best cut using a normal plasterboard saw.

A Stanley knife, a straight edge, a measuring tape, and a pencil will also come in handy.

A wallboard saw can also be used as a plasterboard cutter, allowing you to cut shapes from the centre of a sheet of plasterboard.

Cut-proof gloves are an excellent piece of protective equipment to have on hand. Start by using a pencil and a straight edge to mark the line or lines you will be cutting in the plasterboard.

After that, make your cut and, if necessary, use a rasp or plasterboard plane to fix any mistakes.

Plasterboard damage or corners cut without thinking can be the result of improperly cut plasterboard.

Conclusion

Gyprock is also known as wallboard and plasterboard. Plasterboard, made from gypsum panels, is hung on walls and ceilings for decoration or function.

This introduction covers plasterboard types and uses. Gypsum board, wallboard, wall panels, and plasterboard are the same. Building complex yet practical touches is easy with its portability and assembly.

Plasterboard may hold 20 kilograms per square metre, depending on the brand. British Gypsum pioneered plasterboard. Gypsum, the major element in wet plaster, makes the board.

Glass wool, foams, paper, and fibrous plastics are used. DIY cosmetic upgrades include plasterboard wall cladding.

Bathroom plasterboard must be water-resistant since humidity degrades it. Drywall sheets are heavy and fragile, requiring two persons to instal them. Skimming an existing wall with a plasterboard is faster than prepping and plastering. Tape and jointing compounds can replace plastering. Professionals should advise on plasterboard thickness and kind.

Content Summary

• Gyprock, gypsum board, wallboard, and plasterboard are all frequent names for the same thing—plasterboard, one of the world's most widely used building materials.
• It is now widely used as an interior wall and ceiling cladding in homes and businesses.
• With the boards taped and fastened to the wall or ceiling, the bevelled edges easily smooth out the surface with plaster.
• A plasterboard of some kind is needed for every dry-lining project.
• There are several various kinds of plasterboard, and the one you require will depend on your specific circumstances.
• A professional plasterer can give even the largest wall or ceiling a faultless finish.
• After painting, the wall gives the impression of being smooth.
• All the fundamentals of working with plasterboard are covered in this tutorial.
• It's also important to take advantage of the unique qualities of the walls, ceiling, or both, such as their ability to block out noise, keep out moisture, or contain a fire.
• The different types and uses of plasterboard, as well as its dimensions and thickness, will all be discussed in this primer.
• Plasterboard can also be gypsum board, drywall, wallboard, or wall panels.
• Partitions, wall linings, and ceilings can be made from plasterboard in any building, from offices to classrooms to homes.
• Some benefits can be gained by using plasterboard.
• Plasterboard is not suggested for damp areas; other options are available with greater acoustic or thermal performance.
• High-density plasterboard is useful in high-traffic areas, such as commercial or public buildings, because it provides additional protection against accidental damage.
• Since stud walls use more combustible materials than masonry walls, fire-resistant plasterboard is a practical solution and, sometimes, a must for construction regulations.
• Water-repellent chemicals used in the production of totally water-resistant plasterboard provide a solution to the problem of wetness on external walls.
• A high wall thickness makes for a very soundproof and thermally insulated wall.
• To prevent noise, soundproof boards often have a much higher density.
• When looking for the highest level of moisture resistance in a plasterboard, vapour-resistant options are your best bet.
• Know that a plasterboard has a high load capacity before you buy it.
• Plasterboard walls can normally hold 20 kg per square metre of weight, though this varies depending on the type of plasterboard you purchase.
• Plasterboards typically feature gypsum, the primary component of standard wet plaster, as their sturdy core material.
• In 1915, when ancient and inefficient building practices were still the norm, British Gypsum was founded as one of the pioneering firms responsible for the invention of plasterboard.
• Plaster and wallboard can be manufactured using gypsum sourced from different places.
• Plasterboard gypsum is mostly sourced from flue-gas desulphurization (FGD) of power plant emissions.
• Water-resistant plasterboard is necessary for bathrooms since other types of plasterboard would be degraded and damaged by moisture.
• Plasterboard wall cladding is a sensible DIY project for minor renovations.
• Large-scale renovations are probably best left to the pros, particularly if you want to plaster a ceiling.
• The advantages of this drywall kind will also be discussed.
• Regular plasterboard or wallboard is the best starting material for ceilings.
• Be sure to measure your ceiling and buy a wallboard accordingly.
• For instance, if the ceiling is in a damp space like a bathroom or kitchen, you should select a plasterboard that is resistant to water.
• Plasterboard is commonly used for interior partitions and for covering up existing walls and ceilings.
• To avoid the need for plastering altogether, you could use tape and jointing compound throughout the taping and jointing process.
• Plasterboard screws are the following topic (drywall screws).
• Plasterboard screws aren't like regular screws.
• With so many options, it's best to consult experts when deciding plasterboard thickness and type.
• They can help you find the best options within your project's requirements and budget constraints.
• However, boards with a tapered edge are ideal for taping and jointing, while square-edged boards are great for skimming finishes.