Using traditional wet plaster is not as common as it once was, as using plasterboard sheets saves so much time and effort and can provide a surface ready for decorating. Plasterboard is made using gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper or fibreglass. It is a versatile material suitable for various applications, including fire protection, sound insulation, and moisture resistance. Below you can see some of the different types of plasterboard you can use in a project, what each is good for and their properties.
Standard Plasterboard
Standard plasterboard is the most common type of plasterboard used in construction projects. It is ideal for use in internal walls and ceilings and provides a smooth surface for decoration. Standard plasterboard is available in various sizes, ranging from 6mm to 16mm thickness, and is easy to cut to the desired size.
Thermal Plasterboard
Workplace Interior Shop has quality thermal plasterboard designed to provide insulation against heat loss. It is ideal for use in external walls, particularly those that are not cavity walls. Thermal plasterboard has a layer of insulation material, such as expanded polystyrene or mineral wool, that is bonded to the gypsum core. This layer of insulation helps reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency and adds additional acoustic insulation.
Acoustic Plasterboard
Acoustic plasterboard is designed to reduce noise transmission between rooms. It is ideal for use in spaces such as music studios, cinemas, and bedrooms. Soundproof plasterboard is thicker than standard plasterboard and has a higher density, which helps to absorb sound waves. It can also be combined with other soundproofing materials, such as acoustic insulation, to reduce noise transmission further.
Moisture-Resistant Plasterboard
Moisture-resistant plasterboard is designed to withstand damp and humid conditions, and you use it in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, locker rooms, and utility rooms. The gypsum core of moisture-resistant plasterboard is treated with a water-resistant additive, making it resistant to moisture and humidity. This type of plasterboard is usually green in colour, making it easy to distinguish from standard plasterboard.
Fire-Resistant Plasterboard
Fire-resistant plasterboard is intended to provide a barrier against fire. It is made up of a gypsum core reinforced with glass fibre, making it more heat-resistant than standard plasterboard. Fire-resistant plasterboard is available in various thicknesses, ranging from 9mm to 15mm, and you can use it in internal and external walls and ceilings.
Impact-Resistant Plasterboard
Impact-resistant plasterboard can withstand impact damage, making it ideal for use in high-traffic areas such as corridors, schools, and hospitals. It is thicker and denser than standard plasterboard and has a reinforced core that makes it more resistant to dents and other types of damage. Impact-resistant plasterboard is available in various thicknesses, ranging from 12.5mm to 15mm.
Plasterboard is a versatile and essential material in modern construction projects, and there are many different types of plasterboard available, each with unique properties and uses. Whether you need to provide fire protection, insulation, or soundproofing, there is a plasterboard that is suitable for your needs. Select your plasterboard carefully and select suitable ones for each room type.