Different types of gypsum boards

Gypsum board is one of the broadly utilized construction materials due to its properties and different product of gypsum. Its uses have gotten to be wide in construction industries. Gypsum board is utilized as surface material such as wall and ceiling construction not only in Malta but all around the world. One can use gypsum boards, which are also known as drywall, to create rooms by partitioning so that one can also easily dismantle and re-assemble when there is the need to change the size or layout of a room. One can create ambient lights by doing boarders around the ceiling with strip lights in them. In Malta, we are now seeing a better use of gypsum boards especially when it comes to creating space in an open plan. Interior designers also use gypsum boards to create split levels in rooms.

The different type of gypsum board generally available in the market are drywall white board, fire-resistant board, water-resistant board and exterior board.

Drywall white boards, like CoreX boards, are probably the most economical plasterboard type. This is used for walls and ceiling. This is the most used plasterboard and it is quick and easy to install, so it saves time and reduces construction costs.

Fire-resistant board stops the chances of spreading of fire which ensures life safety. The core of the fire-resistant plasterboard is enhanced by special fibres and additives. Both sides of this board are covered with special paper that gives flexibility and high strength to the plasterboard.

Moisture-resistant plasterboard is manufactured with advanced technology. The core of this plasterboard is strengthened with water repellent agents. The sides of this board are covered with special paper that gives flexibility and high strength to the plasterboard. Green moisture-resistant board is suitable for areas where there is moisture in the area for example bathrooms.

Exterior boards, like BoardeX orange boards, are used instead of cement boards nowadays, since they are lighter to handle and cut, and they can take all the weather elements. They are generally used in wet areas, in shafts, under wall cladding and areas where there is direct contact with water.

There are other special boards available in the market like sound absorption boards, extra strong boards, and many more. It is important when buying gypsum boards that one explains what will be the ultimate need for the installation so that the supplier can offer you the best product available.

When using gypsum boards one can also use mineral wool in between gypsum boards or the wall and the gypsum board to create both sound insulation and better fire resistance. Different structures can give different results. These requests are generally done by architects or designers when preparing a plan for a client. In Malta, insulation is important as it helps reduce the heat loss in winter and keep out the hot sun during the summer days.

Yes! Gypsum boards are the base for design. Once a structure is complete, one can colour the surface any colour they like! One can also clad the surface with other material like wallpaper or 3D panels. It is important to use primer on any surface before applying paint, that way the paint has better adherence.