What Are The Different Types Of Plasterboard?

Plasterboard comes in various thicknesses and is used for home improvement and repair. Stock or standard plasterboard is the best option for many renovation projects, including constructing stud walls and drywalling ceilings and walls.

Plastering may call for a specific plasterboard that isn't readily available.

Most plasterboard looks the same at first glance, but different brands may be available in a wider range of hues. The core material, any reinforcements added to the core, and overall board thickness are usually the main points of differentiation.

This guide will go over the most important varieties of plasterboard that you may need for your project, as well as their typical applications, cost breakdowns, and wall-mounting instructions.

What Is Plasterboard?

Plasterboard, also known as wallboard or drywall, is frequently used to achieve this effect. Plasterboard is created by layering gypsum (dihydrate calcium sulphate) with water and pressing the resulting paste between two large sheets of paper. Using plasterboard in your home has many advantages, such as:

1. Easy to install
2. Lightweight
3. 100% recyclable
4. Can hide pipes and wires
5. Good for smoothing out walls during a renovation project
6. Provides a cavity space for insulation - although you can get insulated plasterboard too
7. Gypsum is naturally fire-resistant

What Differentiates Plasterboard From Plaster?

Plasterboard is not the same as traditional plaster, consisting of a paste applied to walls and allowed to dry to a smooth finish. Modern plasterboard has the same sleek appearance as traditional plaster but is installed much more quickly and with less effort.

What Plasterboard Sizes Are Available?

Plasterboard is often much more cost-effective than wet plastering for a wall finish. Plasterboard is available in various thicknesses, the most common of which are 3/8 inch (9.5mm) and 1/2 inch (12mm).

Plasterboard is typically sold in large sheets 8 feet by 4 feet (2.4 metres by 1.2 metres), but smaller sheets (plasterboard laths) are also available for convenience and portability. In addition, Plasterboards designed for specific purposes, such as fireproofing or soundproofing, often come in 15mm and 19mm thicknesses.

It's important to note that different types of plasterboard are used depending on whether or not the surface will be plastered or painted.

Tapered boards cover the seams in a plasterboard wall before painting. What this means is that the board gradually thins out to its edges. A joint between two thin edges is concealed by plasterboard tape.

Using a wide scraper, a very thin layer of joint filler is applied to the plasterboard joints, and then the area is lightly sanded until there is no noticeable gap between the board's face. Thanks to the plasterboard tape, if the wall shifts even slightly, the filler won't crack.

Different Types Of Plasterboard

Insulated Plasterboard

Plasterboard with an added thermal insulation board attached to one side is known as "insulated plasterboard." Insulated plasterboard, which can be used to insulate exterior walls like brick, is a good option for increasing a room's thermal efficiency.

Insulated plasterboard has the potential to be installed more quickly and with less effort than alternative insulation materials. As long as the existing plaster is solid and dry, you can add this plasterboard. As a result, insulated plasterboard is widely used.

Insulated plasterboard is ideal for use in living and sleeping spaces to prevent heat loss through the walls and ceiling.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Insulated Plasterboard

Insulated plasterboard, sometimes called thermal plasterboard, has a few benefits and drawbacks. The enhancement of thermal efficiency is one of its main benefits. By preventing heat from escaping, insulated plasterboard improves energy efficiency and saves money on heating costs.

Construction and remodelling projects also benefit from the easy installation process because of the time and effort savings it provides. In addition, because insulated plasterboard can be thinner than conventional insulation methods while still providing the same or better thermal performance, it can increase a building's usable square footage.

It also has the added benefit of preventing condensation and cold spots, which can lead to mould and structural damage. Some varieties of insulated plasterboard are also superior at blocking out noise.

Intricate designs or textured finishes may be more difficult to achieve with insulated plasterboard than regular plasterboard because of the insulation layer. In addition, insulated plasterboard is more expensive than regular plasterboard because it contains insulation material.

Fire-Resistant Plasterboard 

Plasterboard with a fire-resistive coating is manufactured to reduce the rate at which a fire spreads through a structure. When used as part of a complete drywall system, "products like Gyproc FireLine withstands fire for longer than standard plasterboard," reveals Higgs.

Adding glass fibres, vermiculite, or another fireproof material strengthens the gypsum plasterboard core.

Plasterboard is given a fire rating between 1 and 4, with 1 being the highest and 4 being the lowest. Fire-resistant plasterboard is typically available in thicknesses of 12.5mm, 15mm, and 19mm, with varying thicknesses contributing to higher ratings.

Boards with lower ratings are fireproof for 30 to 60 minutes, while those with higher ratings can withstand flames for up to 120 minutes.

It can be used in the same applications as regular plasterboard and is fastened like that. To secure masonry walls, use the dot and dab technique, and to secure timber ceiling joists, use drywall screws. The price may be higher than regular plasterboard, depending on fire rating and thickness. It's important to remember that regular plasterboard is fireproof but unrated.

Advantages And Disadvantages Fire-Resistant Plasterboard 

Despite its name, fire-rated plasterboard (also known as fire-resistant plasterboard) has a few drawbacks. Superior fire protection and containment in structures are one of its main benefits.

Plasterboard with built-in fire protection features is made to withstand intense heat for a certain amount of time, thereby reducing the speed of a fire's spread and giving residents more time to evacuate safely.

It's also simple to set up and easily incorporated into pre-existing infrastructure. In addition, Plasterboard that can withstand fire prevents sound from travelling to other building areas. There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account.

For example, plasterboard with fire resistance features may cost more than regular plasterboard because of its unique qualities and production method.

In addition to following all applicable building codes, a successful installation is essential. Further, while fire-resistant plasterboard does provide increased protection against fire, it is not a substitute for additional fire safety measures.

Moisture-Resistant Plasterboard

Plasterboard designed to withstand high moisture levels is the best choice for areas like the bathroom and kitchen.

As a result of the silicone additives found in most moisture-resistant plasterboard, this material is ideal for use on walls that are more likely to get splashed.

Wet rooms, en suites, and walk-in showers benefit from moisture-resistant plasterboards like Gypfor Moisture. Plasterboard designed for use in high-moisture areas can prevent insulation from becoming contaminated with mould and extend its useful life.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Moisture-Resistant Plasterboard

There are benefits and drawbacks to using moisture-resistant plasterboard, also called green board or MR board. Its resistance to moisture and damp conditions is a major benefit.

Water vapour, humidity, and accidental splashes won't do much damage to moisture-resistant plasterboard because of its gypsum core and water-resistant facing.

Because of this, it can be used in humid environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms.

Plasterboard that can withstand wet conditions is versatile, as it can be used in brand-new builds and remodels. It also makes a great canvas for decorating with paint or wallpaper. There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account.

Although damage from water or excessive moisture is prevented by moisture-resistant plasterboard, it can still occur after prolonged exposure. Joints and edges must be properly sealed to preserve their moisture-resistant qualities.

Also, you should expect to pay a premium for moisture-resistant plasterboard over regular plasterboard. Plasterboard that can withstand high moisture and humidity levels has more benefits than drawbacks, so it's a good option in damp environments.

Impact-Resistant Plasterboard

Impact-resistant plasterboard is typically more dense than standard plasterboard, making it less susceptible to damage when struck. This means that rooms where knocks are more likely, such as a child's bedroom or playroom, can benefit from impact-resistant plasterboard.

Besides being tougher and less likely to break from impacts, impact-resistant plasterboard offers improved soundproofing and fire safety compared to regular plasterboard.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Impact-Resistant Plasterboard

The advantages and disadvantages of impact-resistant plasterboard (impact-resistant drywall or tough board) vary. The fact that it can take a beating without breaking is just one of its many useful properties.

In addition, Plasterboard with a reinforced core and a tough facing, also known as impact-resistant plasterboard, is less likely to sustain damage from accidental bumps, dings, and scratches than regular plasterboard.

Impact-resistant plasterboard is versatile, as it can be used in domestic and commercial settings and is also simple to install. It makes the interior walls smooth, ready for painting or wallpapering and can increase their longevity.

There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account. Plasterboard designed to withstand impacts may cost more than the regular variety. Even though impact-resistant plasterboard is more durable than regular board, it can still be damaged by particularly heavy blows.

Acoustic Plasterboard

Gypfor Sound and other acoustic plasterboard types are good options for soundproofing thinner ceilings and reducing noise transfer between stories.

Its average thickness of 12.5 millilitres backs up the soundproofing properties of acoustic plasterboard.

When combined with rock wool insulation, acoustic plasterboard can significantly reduce the noise that can travel from room to room.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Acoustic Plasterboard

Soundproof plasterboard, or acoustic drywall, also known as acoustic plasterboard, has a few benefits and drawbacks.

Its ability to better insulate rooms from outside noise and decrease noise transmission within a space is a major benefit.

In addition, sound vibrations can be reduced and acoustic performance improved with the help of specialised acoustic plasterboard properties like increased density and sound-absorbing materials.

This makes it an excellent choice for places where limiting ambient noise is a priority, such as studios, theatres, conferences, and even homes where silence is prized. Acoustic plasterboard is versatile, as it can be used in both new construction and renovations and is simple to install.

In addition, it creates a uniform and easy-to-work-with surface for decorative coatings. There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account.

Acoustic plasterboard may cost a little more than regular plasterboard because of its unique features and production method. In addition, while acoustic plasterboard does a better job of insulating against noise, it may only be able to do so for some frequencies.

Therefore, it may be necessary to use additional soundproofing measures, such as insulation or acoustic sealants, in conjunction with its use.

Flexible Plasterboard

Flexible plasterboard offers greater versatility, similar to regular plasterboard but with grooves evenly spaced across the back. About three-quarters of the way down the board are grooves.

Because of this, it can be easily shaped into a wide variety of curves and bends to accommodate different angles and shapes.

Its primary application is in residential remodelling where arched or curved surfaces are needed.

You can find flexible plasterboard in standard dimensions like 1,200mm x 2,400mm. In addition, the boards come in a range of thicknesses, from a scant 6mm (not particularly soundproof or fireproof) to a whopping 12mm.

Fixing flexible plasterboard requires caution.

Considering the board's malleability, a joint compound or adhesive with some give is recommended. Nails or screws designed for use in drywall can be used, but they must penetrate the board itself rather than a groove. Metal edging beads are also useful for reinforcing edges and corners.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Flexible Plasterboard

There are benefits and drawbacks to using flexible plasterboard (also called bendable plasterboard or curve-able board). It can be shaped into various curves, making it a versatile building material.

The flexibility of flexible plasterboard comes from using gypsum in conjunction with reinforcing fibres.

This makes it an excellent choice for building arches, curved walls, and other unique architectural features in private and public settings.

Plasterboard that is both flexible and easy to cut and shape on-site makes for quick and accurate customization.

It creates a uniform and easy-to-work-with surface for decorative coatings. There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account.

The unique properties and manufacturing process that go into making flexible plasterboard could mean that it is more expensive than regular plasterboard. Remember that flexible plasterboard can only be bent so far, so if you need a particularly tight or sweeping curve, you may need to look elsewhere for the appropriate method or material.

In addition, the curved sections require special attention during installation to guarantee adequate support and reinforcement.

Water Resistant Board

This board can be used as a subfloor for tiling in some bathrooms because it has water-repellent additives in the core. These sheets of plasterboard typically have a green face and are not plastered. All gypsum plasters quickly absorb moisture, so plastering them would be counterproductive even though they are ideal for high-humidity areas.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Water Resistant Board

Water-resistant board, also known as moisture-resistant or green board, is used in construction but has pros and cons.

Its resistance to moisture and damp conditions is a major benefit. In addition, the moisture-resistant core and water-resistant facing of the water-resistant board protect it from condensation, humidity, and accidental splashes.

This means it can be used in high-humidity rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.

In addition, the versatility of a water-resistant board means it can be used in brand-new constructions and remodels with minimal effort. For example, it's perfect for creating a sturdy canvas for wall coverings or paint.

It also prevents the buildup of moisture, which is a leading cause of mould and mildew, so that's a plus.

There are, however, constraints that should be taken into account. There is still some risk of damage from water or excessive moisture exposure, but water-resistant boards are not completely waterproof. Joints and edges must be properly sealed to preserve their water resistance.

Due to its unique properties and manufacturing process, water-resistant boards may be more expensive than regular plasterboards.

4-In-1 plasterboard

Plasterboard with 4-in-1 properties (performance in fire, acoustics, moisture, and thermal) may be the best choice if you need to adhere to stringent building codes.

This type of plasterboard can be used in a variety of rooms because of its high R-value, fire resistance, waterproofing, and impact resistance.

The versatility and longevity of a 4-in-1 plasterboard are improved even further by the fact that it is simple to repair.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of 4-In-1 Plasterboard

There are benefits and drawbacks to using a 4-in-1 plasterboard, also known as multi-functional plasterboard. The fact that it can be used for various purposes is one of the product's main benefits.

Plasterboard that serves multiple purposes is called "4-in-1," including fire and moisture resistance, soundproofing, thermal insulation, and more.

This makes it a practical option for building projects requiring multiple functions. For example, fire resistance in wet environments (like bathrooms and kitchens), moisture resistance, sound insulation, and thermal insulation all find a home in a 4-in-1 plasterboard, improving acoustics and reducing energy costs.

Eliminating the need for specialised boards during construction is just one way in which 4-in-1 plasterboard can speed up the project and cut expenses. Nonetheless, there are constraints to take into account.

For example, a single board's performance may suffer if it tries to do too much at once rather than using separate boards for each function.

When compared to separate specialised boards, the thickness, design, and finish options available with a 4-in-1 plasterboard may be restricted. Therefore, assessing the project's unique needs and weighing the alternatives between ease of use and superior performance is crucial.

Conclusion

Plasterboard, sometimes called wallboard or drywall, is a multipurpose building material. Making this requires combining gypsum and water to form a paste, and then pressing the mixture between two huge sheets of paper.

Plasterboard has many uses because of its low cost, high strength-to-weight ratio, inherent fire resistance, ability to conceal pipes and cables, smooth out walls during renovations, and provide cavity space for insulation.

Plasterboard is available in a variety of thicknesses, from 3/8 inch (9.5mm) to 1/2 inch (12mm), and is frequently a more cost-effective option than wet plastering for a wall finish.

Large sheets of 8 feet by 4 feet (2.4 metres by 1.2 metres) are the most common, but smaller sheets (plasterboard laths) are also available for use.

Fireproof and soundproof plasterboards are typically available in thicknesses of 15 and 19 millimetres.

When painting over a plasterboard wall, tapered boards hide the joints. You can improve a room's energy efficiency by using insulated plasterboard (sometimes called thermal plasterboard) on exterior walls like brick. Because of the insulating layer, it costs more than standard plasterboard.

To slow the spread of fire through a building, manufacturers create fire-resistant plasterboard. It comes in 12.5mm, 15mm, and 19mm thicknesses and has a fire rating between 1 and 4. Fire resistance ratings range from 30 minutes for low-rated boards to 120 minutes for high-rated ones.

Fire-rated plasterboard, despite its misleading name, is an excellent fire barrier and fire barrier.

It's straightforward to deploy and integrate with current systems. It is not a replacement for other fire precautions, though.

The silicone additives in moisture-resistant plasterboard make it an excellent choice for humid environments like the bathroom and kitchen. It works well in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and even the washer and dryer.

Waterproof plasterboard has several applications in construction and renovation. You can also paint or wallpaper it to change its look. However, it does have some restrictions, such as the necessity for good sealing of joints and edges to prevent water and excessive moisture damage.

The density of impact-resistant plasterboard is higher than that of regular plasterboard, making it more resistant to impact.

With better soundproofing and fire safety, it's a good choice for rooms that get a lot of knocks.

In contrast to standard plasterboard, this option may be more expensive and only work at particular frequencies.

When reducing background noise is a top priority, acoustic plasterboard, sometimes called acoustic drywall, is a great option. It's easy to set up and use for both brand-new buildings and remodels.

Grooves uniformly distributed across the back of flexible plasterboard increase its adaptability, making it a good choice for home renovations.

Its malleability makes it a great material for creating arches, curving walls, and other one-of-a-kind structures. However, it could be more costly due to its one-of-a-kind characteristics and production method.

There are benefits and drawbacks to using water-resistant boards, sometimes called moisture-resistant or green boards, in buildings.

The fact that it holds up well in high-humidity areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry is a huge plus. To maintain its water resistance, however, adequate sealing of seams and edges is required.

Content Summary

• Plasterboard, also known as drywall or wallboard, comes in various thicknesses for home improvement and repair projects.
• Stock or standard plasterboard is commonly used for constructing stud walls and drywalling ceilings and walls.
• Different brands of plasterboard may vary in appearance and hues due to variations in core material, reinforcements, and overall thickness.
• Plasterboard is created by layering gypsum with water and pressing the paste between two large sheets of paper.
• Plasterboard is easy to install, lightweight, and 100% recyclable.
• It can hide pipes and wires and is useful for smoothing out walls during renovations.
• Plasterboard provides a cavity space for insulation, and there are specific insulated plasterboard options available.
• Gypsum used in plasterboard is naturally fire-resistant.
• Plasterboard differs from traditional plaster as it is installed more quickly and with less effort.
• Common thicknesses of plasterboard are 3/8 inch (9.5mm) and 1/2 inch (12mm).
• Plasterboard sheets are typically 8 feet by 4 feet (2.4 metres by 1.2 metres), but smaller sheets are also available.
• Specialized plasterboards for fireproofing or soundproofing purposes come in 15mm and 19mm thicknesses.
• Tapered boards are used to cover seams in a plasterboard wall before painting, hiding joints with plasterboard tape.
• Insulated plasterboard has an added thermal insulation board and is used for increasing a room's thermal efficiency.
• It can be installed quickly and is suitable for areas with solid and dry existing plaster.
• Insulated plasterboard is ideal for living and sleeping spaces to prevent heat loss through walls and ceilings.
• Benefits of insulated plasterboard include improved thermal efficiency, cost savings on heating, and prevention of condensation and cold spots.
• Fire-resistant plasterboard is manufactured to reduce the spread of fire in structures.
• It is given a fire rating between 1 and 4, with higher ratings providing longer fire resistance.
• Fire-resistant plasterboard can be used in the same applications as regular plasterboard and requires specific installation techniques.
• It offers superior fire protection and containment, providing more time for evacuation in case of fire.
• Moisture-resistant plasterboard is designed to withstand high moisture levels and is suitable for areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
• It contains silicone additives to repel water and protect against moisture damage.
• Moisture-resistant plasterboard prevents insulation contamination with mold and extends its lifespan.
• Benefits of moisture-resistant plasterboard include resistance to moisture and humidity, versatility, and suitability for humid environments.
• Impact-resistant plasterboard is denser and tougher than standard plasterboard, making it less prone to damage from impacts.
• It provides improved soundproofing and fire safety compared to regular plasterboard.
• Advantages of impact-resistant plasterboard include durability, resistance to accidental damage, and increased longevity.
• Acoustic plasterboard is used for soundproofing thinner ceilings and reducing noise transfer between rooms.
• It can be combined with rock wool insulation to significantly reduce noise transmission.
• Benefits of acoustic plasterboard include better insulation against noise, reduced sound vibrations, and improved acoustic performance.
• Acoustic plasterboard is versatile and can be used in studios, theatres, conferences, and homes.
• Flexible plasterboard can be easily shaped into curves and bends for architectural features like arched walls.
• It offers versatility and customization options for residential remodelling projects.
• Flexible plasterboard comes in standard dimensions and various thicknesses.