GKL or GVL – which is better and in what cases?

Selecting the appropriate materials is essential when starting a building or remodeling project to guarantee both functionality and durability. GKL (Gypsum Plasterboard) and GVL (Gypsum Fiberboard) are two of the most widely used options for wall and ceiling installations. You can choose the material that best meets your needs by being aware of the differences between these two options.

Gypsum plasterboard, also referred to as drywall, is extensively utilized due to its versatility and ease of installation. It is a favorite for producing smooth, paint-ready surfaces in both residential and commercial spaces because it is lightweight and easily mounted. GKL is a preferred choice for projects with tight budgets because it is also reasonably priced.

Gypsum Fiberboard, on the other hand, is renowned for its exceptional strength and resistance to moisture. In contrast to GKL, GVL adds fibers to the gypsum to increase its strength and provide extra reinforcement. This makes it the perfect option for high-traffic areas or spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms where resistance to moisture and impact is crucial.

The exact needs of your project will ultimately determine which of GKL and GVL to use. GKL is probably your best option if you’re looking for a quick and simple solution for standard interior walls and ceilings. On the other hand, GVL provides the improved qualities required to endure more challenging circumstances if moisture resistance and durability are your main concerns.

GKL

This type of sheet is produced using 93% gypsum, 6% cardboard, and 1% starch with water. Extra stress resistance is provided by the cardboard sheets that are used to secure the gypsum base on both sides.

Producers create four categories of materials:

• GKL standard. Designed for premises with standard operating conditions. Differs from others in a gray tint.
• GKLV – option with moisture protection. The primer with which the finished sheets are impregnated does not allow the base to absorb moisture, making the products suitable for finishing structures with high humidity. Differs from others in green tint.
• GKLO – fire-resistant option. The sheets are pink and are suitable for arranging rooms where increased fire resistance of surfaces is required.
• GKLVO – mixed option for arranging saunas. It is characterized by increased resistance to open flame and moisture, has a green tint with red markings.

The dimensions of the sheets can vary: length from 2000 to 4000 mm, width from 600 to 1200 mm, and thickness from 8 to 16 mm.

The materials are used to create arches, walls, ceilings, and other structural components.

Benefits

• low cost;
• has excellent thermal insulation characteristics;
• ease of installation;
• the plasticity of the material allows the formation of curved structures;
• non-flammable. Plaster can only melt at high temperature, but cardboard burns. To eliminate this drawback, it is treated with special compounds in fire-resistant versions;
• sheets treated with moisture-resistant impregnations can be used in rooms with high humidity;
• to repair a separate section of the surface, it is not necessary to dismantle the entire sheet – it is enough to cut a piece of plasterboard to size and repair the defect;
• The material is suitable for installation in premises of any type for any type of finishing;
• does not contain allergens and other harmful substances that can evaporate during prolonged use;
• Suitable for masking various types of communications.

Drawbacks:

• drywall is very fragile, it is especially necessary to consider this drawback when carrying material;
• low strength. Sheets cannot be used as a base for hinging heavy objects and furniture (maximum weight of 25 kg);
• Low soundproofing indicators. For partitions, you have to use additional mineral wool slabs.

What is the main difference

Here are the primary variations between the two materials:

• Drywall is made of three layers, and gypsum fiber – a whole product;
• GVL has exceptional strength and is allowed into the finish, when the surface is important to withstand powerful static loads;
• magnesium oxide and chloride are added to the composition of gypsum plasterboard; only gypsum is used in gypsum plaster;
• GCR has more restrictions for use;
• when cutting drywall with an angle grinder, a large amount of dust is generated, and gypsum fiber is cut with virtually no fine fractions;
• a gypsum board sheet cut with a construction knife is broken downwards, and gypsum board sheets are broken upwards;
• the large mass of gypsum fiber sheets does not allow the master to work alone;
• when finishing drywall with wallpaper, puttying of the surface is required; the same operation on gypsum plasterboard does not require additional preparation, except for masking the fasteners;
• GVL is difficult to bend, so only gypsum plasterboard is used for arched surfaces;
• for the installation of gypsum boards, a more powerful frame is prepared than for gypsum plasterboards, made of wooden bars or a metal profile with a wall thickness of 0.5 mm.

Comparison of characteristics

It is vital to compare the products in question based on their primary characteristics in order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of them. Discover which is more durable, what density both sheets have, how well they insulate against heat and sound, which products are more costly and eco-friendly, and which are simpler to install.

Strength and Density

Gypsum fiber’s lower density makes it possible to securely hold fasteners and hang furniture in the room, but only when dowels are used. Its high density is ideal for laying floors.

GVL is without a doubt the leader in strength. The material’s fiber reinforcement makes it resistant to impact and static loads, and unlike gypsum boards, it doesn’t require special corners or masking tape when forming joints or corners for gypsum fiber sheets.

Price

Price is frequently a more significant factor in material selection than its attributes. Plasterboard is the market leader in this indicator, with prices starting at 70 rubles per square meter for the buyer. Ordinary gypsum fiber sheets will already set you back 180 rubles per square meter, and polished sheets will set you back at least 360 rubles.

Gypsum fiber boards and moisture- and fire-resistant gypsum boards will cost 1.5–2 times as much as standard products, respectively. The priciest gypsum boards can be purchased for up to 900 rubles per square meter.

Thermal and sound insulation

Although GVL has a higher density than gypsum plasterboard, the difference is nearly imperceptible in real-world applications due to its superior thermal insulation performance.

Since GVL has a better sound insulation rating than gypsum board, it is advised to install more insulating material when installing plasterboard partitions in homes or country homes. GVL can handle this task with ease and at no extra cost.

Environmental friendliness

Neither of the materials contains any allergens or dangerous substances that could evaporate and endanger people.

Ease of installation

Both materials are transportable, easily cut, and simply fastened to the frame; however, you should keep in mind that gypsum fiber boards require less finishing preparation.

Selecting between GVL (gypsum fiberboard) and GKL (gypsum plasterboard) primarily depends on the particular requirements of your project. GKL is a popular option for many interior walls and ceilings because it is affordable, lightweight, and simple to install. It’s especially helpful in rooms like living rooms and bedrooms where moisture isn’t a major concern.

However, GVL provides better strength and resistance to moisture. It’s a good option for rooms with higher humidity levels, like bathrooms, kitchens, and even basements. Furthermore, because of its increased durability, GVL is appropriate for high-traffic areas and locations where walls may experience more deterioration.

In the end, each material has special advantages and recommended applications. GKL is the best option if you’re looking for a quick and affordable solution for general interior spaces. On the other hand, GVL will be more helpful if your project calls for stronger, more moisture-resistant walls. Examine the particular needs of your project to determine which of these two adaptable materials is best.

It is up to you to decide which type of gypsum plasterboard—GKL—or gypsum fiberboard—is best for your particular building or remodeling project. GKL is perfect for smoothing interior walls and ceilings in dry environments because it is lightweight and simple to install. However, because GVL is stronger and more resistant to moisture, it is a better choice for places like floors, kitchens, and bathrooms that are subjected to higher humidity levels or need extra durability. Making the right material choice for your project requires an understanding of its distinct qualities.

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