The construction sector has undergone a quantum leap over the years and it has only been possible due to the influx of significant technological developments. Not only have the technological breakthroughs resulted in an optimized efficiency, but these enhanced curations also provide numerous advantages over traditional techniques.
When talking about such innovations that have broken new grounds, Gypsum Board is a familiar subject. Even though this discovery is by no means new, it has only recently gained more traction in the context of construction. These are used to construct lightweight and sturdy ceilings, partitions, and walls. It is typical to hear individuals propose using gypsum boards while building or renovating a building due to their superior strength and durability.
Traditional gypsum plasterboards usually employ dehydrated calcium sulfate and undergo heating to be converted into CaSO4.5H2O. The final dehydrated product is then mixed with water along with several additives. Afterward, it quickly assumes the shape of a needle-like crystalline structure that comes together to create the material we know as gypsum plasterboard.
This blog digs deeper into the topic, discussing the various varieties, features, and applications of gypsum plasterboard; keep reading.
GYPSUM PLASTERBOARD: WHAT IS IT?
According to ATSM C11 which best defines a gypsum board, it is the general name for a family of sheet products consisting primarily of gypsum. However, it is also commonly known as drywall or plasterboard. It is an industrial term for a plaster-based panel surface that aids in the construction of lightweight walls, ceilings, and partitions. Despite being a collective term, all of its forms utilize gypsum as an inert core, sandwiched between tough paper layers. All it takes is a joint treatment procedure to construct a solid foundation that can withstand the test of time.
DIMENSIONS OF GYPSUM BOARD
Gypsum plasterboards of various sizes are likely to be available in the marketplace. With each of these dimensions serving a distinct objective, it is significant that one needs to pick the optimal dimension as it will aid in preserving the budget without compromising on the quality.
Listed below are the various dimension guidelines for gypsum plasterboard that one is most likely to encounter:
• 1/4-inch (0.635-centimeter):
Such a gypsum plasterboard is an economical framework, primarily used in residential architecture. It is intended for the construction of ceilings, walls, and partitions with acoustic control as a cherry on top.
• 3/8- inch (0.9525-centimeters):
This type of plasterboard is typically employed as an exterior covering in restoration or renovation projects. These are usually applied in a double-layer layout over wood structuring.
• 1/2-inch (1.27 centimeter):
The 1/2-inch form is normally employed in one-layer panel installations. As it serves the purpose of acoustic insulation and fire prevention, it is becoming increasingly prevalent in residential constructions.
• 5/8-inch (1.5875-centimeter):
One of the bulkier variances is the 5/8-inch variant. It serves enhanced resistance, stability, and durability to fire. These attributes render this version ideal for solitary and multi-layered constructions.
• 34-inch (1.905-centimeter) and 1-inch (2.54-centimeter)
Being the densest and most durable gypsum plasterboards out there, the fore-mentioned dimensions can be utilized to construct vertical barriers, dividing walls, passageway roofs, and numerous other equivalent structures.
BENEFITS OF A GYPSUM PLASTERBOARD
• CONVENIENT HANDLING
Gypsum panels can be installed simply over any foundation, including AAC blocks, hollow or rigid structures, and blocks as they do not require individual finishing. Moreover, the application and finishing procedures are also a piece of cake.
• FEWER CRACKS DUE TO SHRINKAGE
When blended with water, gypsum plasterboard generates a lesser amount of heat than masonry. As an outcome, there are fewer shrinkage fractures once it dries.
• MINIMAL CURING TIME
The newer gypsum board versions, unlike the ones made from water and cement, do not need a curing period to achieve final consistency. Thus, it spares resources as well as time throughout the process.
• PREMIUM TEXTURE
Plasterboard delivers flawlessly coordinated, flat, seamless surfaces that outperform the standard cement-water combination, without necessitating post-processing.
• REMARKABLE RESILIENCE
The installation of a gypsum plasterboard minimizes dead weight on the framework and guarantees a long-lasting framework after it sets.
• MINIMAL SURVEILLANCE
The conventional plaster demands the right quantities of cement, sand, and water which implies that ongoing supervision is required to ensure that the combination is useable. On the contrary, gypsum plasterboard does not require constant inspection and so lowers the time spent on monitoring.
• OPTIMAL SETTING TIME
A cement-based plaster has to be set accurately for a couple of days before painting. Plasterboard sets in a matter of minutes, providing the perfect base to initiate painting within three days following application.
• FIRE RESISTANCE AND ACOUSTIC CONTROL
The gypsum drywall structure is far more resistant to combustion and sounds, thus making it a better choice.
GYPSUM PLASTERBOARD – Frequently Asked Questions
• Are Gypsum Boards suitable for roofs and ceilings?
Ceilings made with artificial gypsum board last for an extended period. Under typical conditions, these will survive for over two decades with little upkeep.
• What are the average gypsum plasterboard dimensions?
Typically, the length ranges from 1800mm to 4500mm. However, gypsum plasterboards with customized dimensions are also available at United Gypsum.
• Is gypsum plasterboard impermeable to water?
Water-resistant gypsum plasterboards are one of the variants available in the market. Even so, the conventional ones have an innate amount of water resistance.
• Is there a way to paint the gypsum plasterboard?
After spreading a coat of plasterboard primer, users may color the surfaces. The primer would aid in surface leveling and smooth paint application.
• Can gypsum plasterboard be installed in a bathroom?
The standard model is not suitable for side bathroom walls. However, SMART moisture-resistant gypsum boards available at United Gypsum can be employed in spaces that are continually in touch with water, such as toilets and cooking areas.
• How does one keep the gypsum plasterboard in good working order?
Gypsum plasterboard is an efficient architectural product. It demands only minimal upkeep. One may wash it with a standard rug or brush. Always remember not to apply water unless you are using watertight plasterboard.
Final Remarks
Originally, gypsum plasterboard has been more expensive than cement-based masonry. They do, however, provide more substantial resilience, making them a more feasible option for prolonged usage. The readily accessible nature of synthesized gypsum derived as a byproduct of industrial operations has helped to keep rates reasonable while preserving the same properties.
For more queries regarding our SMART Gypsum Boards, visit our website and let our team assist you.
