Often referred to as drywall or gypsum board, plasterboard is a widely used and adaptable material in interior design and construction. It is renowned for being inexpensive, simple to install, and capable of producing smooth, faultless walls and ceilings. Knowing the various kinds of plasterboard and how to select the best one is crucial, whether you’re building a new space, remodeling a room, or just trying to improve the interior of your house.
Plasterboard comes in a variety of forms, each intended for a particular purpose and set of circumstances. Choosing the correct plasterboard can significantly impact the longevity and functionality of your walls, offering a range of options from fire-resistant options for safety to moisture-resistant boards for bathrooms. Understanding the benefits of each type will help you make sure your project looks fantastic and endures over time.
Plasterboard selection should take a number of things into account, including the intended use of the space, the surrounding climate, and the desired level of finish. By choosing the right kind of plasterboard, you can get a result that is long-lasting, appealing, and useful and fits your needs precisely. This post will walk you through the various varieties of plasterboard that are out there and provide helpful advice on which one to choose for your project.
Types and marking of plasterboard
Although gypsum boards are primarily used for partition construction and vertical base cladding, their versatility also makes them suitable for ceiling cladding. You can build multi-tiered suspended structures if you have some experience.
Manufacturers create the following varieties of products, which vary in characteristics, for convenience’s sake:
- GKL (GKB). Simple variation is the most inexpensive, popular and common. The material is suitable for work in rooms with stable humidity within 60% and constant heating. The products are gray and have blue markings.
- GKLV (GKBI). The moisture-resistant variety is used for covering surfaces in the bathroom, hallway, kitchen and loggia. Resistance to impact is due to additives in the composition (including an antiseptic component), as well as water-repellent impregnation of the outer layer of cardboard. Greenish tint boards with blue markings.
- GKLO (GKF). Fire-resistant sheets are used for finishing rooms prone to fire and evacuation facilities. The products are also suitable for cladding areas of fireplaces, hoods and boiler exhaust pipes. Resistance is achieved by including reinforcing materials and special additives in the composition. Pink products with red markings.
- GKLV (GKFI). Universal type, combines fire resistance and moisture resistance parameters. Products are green and red marked.
- GKLA (AKU-LINE). Acoustic (soundproofing) products with a perforated surface and a non-woven material lining on the back side are suitable for recording studios and cafes.
- GKLD (GN 6). Designer variation. Bends well while maintaining strength, used to create arches and other complex shapes.
- GKLU (GEK 13). Reinforced plasterboard is used for the construction of partitions and various structures. It is extremely rare, the analogue is a moisture-resistant version of GKLVU, classified as GRI 13.
- GKLZ (GTS 9). Windproof or façade variety. Sheet material meets all the requirements for outdoor products.
However, improving some qualities does not offer total defense. As a result, GKLO can only withstand fire exposure for a short while longer than usual, and GKLV cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to water.
Edge types
The characteristics of gypsum plasterboards vary, but so does the way the chamfer is arranged. Convenient finishing is made possible by various edge options.
The types that exist are as follows:
- PK (SK). Straight, the most popular variation, which is typical for wall gypsum board. It is distinguished by the simplicity of sealing the seams, when joining tightly, processing is not required.
- UK (AK). Thinned, has a "boat" configuration. The resulting joint involves the use of a reinforcing tape, which is glued during puttying.
- PLK (HRK). Has a semicircular shape, located on the front side of the board. Ensures laying of mortar without the use of reinforcing material.
- ZK (RK). Rounded chamfer is processed similarly to the previous option.
- PLUK (HRAK). Combines the technical parameters of AK and HRK. Semicircular and thinned edge. For finishing, tape is used together with putty.
The descriptions of the plate’s surface contain the corresponding designations; the type is shown next to the plasterboard type.
Note: The chamfer is formed separately even though straight-edged materials are meant to fit parts together tightly. However, this kind of installation isn’t always possible.
Technical characteristics
Gypsum board indicators are governed by GOST 6266-97:
- Size. The standard width is 60 cm and 120 cm, GN 6 (GKLD) can be 90 cm. The length varies from 200 to 400 cm, depending on the type, the thickness is 0.65–2.4 cm. Classic thickness: 9.5 – for ceilings and 12.5 – for walls, but GKLO has dimensions of 15.4 mm, and the arched variation is 6.5 mm.
- Density of gypsum board – no more than 1250 kg/m3.
- Strength depends on the thickness: 6.5–9.5 mm – 450 N, 12.5–18 mm – 600 H. It is taken into account that these are calculations for longitudinal samples.
- Thermal conductivity of gypsum boards depends on the model: coefficient GKL and GKLV – 0.36 W / m K; GKLO and GKLVO – 0.22 W / m K.
- Moisture absorption. Ordinary and fire-resistant gypsum board – 20%, GKLV and GKLVO – 10%. It is taken into account that the water permeability of sheets depends on these data.
- Vapor permeability – 0.075 mg/m h Pa.
- Flammability class – G1. All materials are considered flame-retardant, GKLO retains its integrity for a longer period of time. The indicator is reflected in the marking.
- Toxicity – T1. When exposed to high temperatures or fire, the products do not emit toxic substances.
- Flammability – B3. All products are non-flammable, only charring of the top layer is possible.
- Environmental friendliness. The material does not pose a threat to human health and pets.
Service life is another one of plasterboard’s qualities. At least ten years of durability are guaranteed, but this depends on accurate variety selection, precise installation, and adherence to operating guidelines.
| Type of Plasterboard | Choosing Tips |
| Standard Plasterboard | Best for general indoor walls and ceilings. Use in dry areas. |
| Moisture-Resistant Plasterboard | Ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. Resists humidity. |
| Fire-Resistant Plasterboard | Suitable for areas requiring fire safety, like garages or utility rooms. |
| Acoustic Plasterboard | Reduces noise transmission. Great for bedrooms and living rooms. |
The interior design of your house can be greatly improved by selecting the appropriate type of plasterboard. You can address specific needs in different rooms with options like standard, moisture-resistant, fire-resistant, and acoustic plasterboards. Every type has a distinct function, guaranteeing that your walls and ceilings fulfill functional needs in addition to aesthetic ones.
Think about the surroundings in which the plasterboard will be installed when making your choice. Moisture-resistant boards are great for damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Added safety is offered by fire-resistant options, particularly in areas such as kitchens or near fireplaces. Acoustic plasterboards are an excellent way to lower noise levels in home offices or bedrooms.
Selecting the appropriate material is not as important as installation. A well-fitting and sealed product guarantees longevity and optimal functionality, averting problems such as cracks or moisture damage over time. For optimal outcomes, it’s wise to seek advice from experts or adhere to reliable guidelines.
In the end, selecting the correct plasterboard improves the look and use of your room while offering a strong base for any wall or ceiling finish you decide on. To design a home that suits your needs and style preferences, take the time to comprehend your options and make wise decisions.
Often referred to as drywall, plasterboard is a flexible material that can be used for fire-rated spaces, standard walls, and areas that must withstand moisture in home construction and renovation. Plasterboard selection requires careful consideration of the room’s unique requirements, including fire safety, moisture content, and durability. Plasterboard comes in a variety of varieties, such as standard, moisture-resistant, and fire-resistant. By choosing the appropriate type for each space, you can ensure that your wall or ceiling project will be functional and long-lasting.
