Which drywall is best to use for walls?

For many homeowners and builders, drywall is a popular option when it comes to building or remodeling walls.

Advantages and disadvantages of gypsum board sheets

Among wall finishing materials, gypsum plasterboard (GKL) and its variant, gypsum fiber (GVL) sheets, hold a prominent position in the market. The many advantages that set gypsum sheets apart from other interior finishing options account for their enormous popularity.

1. High technology and ease of installation. Do-it-yourself gypsum fiber board wall finishing is accessible even to non-professionals who have never done finishing work before. With its help, you can not only level the walls, but also bring to life the most daring interior design projects.
2. Lightweight design. Due to the low mass of gypsum sheets, this design does not exert excessive pressure on the foundation and interfloor ceilings.
3. Fire safety. Gypsum is a non-flammable material that can withstand open fire. In this regard, plasterboard finishing can be used to create fireproof partitions.
4. Environmental friendliness of the material. Since gypsum plasterboard does not contain impurities harmful to humans, it can be used to cover walls in any residential premises, including bedrooms and children"s rooms.

The following are some drawbacks of this material:

1. Low strength. A wall covered with plaster cannot be used for hanging massive objects – bookshelves, wall cabinets, plasma panels, etc.d.
2. Fear of dampness. Gypsum is highly hydrophobic and becomes soaked under the influence of moisture, losing its shape and rigidity. In this regard, gypsum fiber sheets or gypsum plasterboard sheets cannot be used for exterior finishing works.

Gypsum is highly hygroscopic and has a low moisture resistance, so any gypsum plasterboard panels are only meant for interior finishing. This also holds true for the so-called moisture-resistant sheets of gypsum plasterboard.

Types and technical characteristics

Several varieties of gypsum sheets are produced by modern industry. Their operational and technical characteristics are all different. You should become more acquainted with the characteristics of gypsum plasterboard in order to select the appropriate one for a given room.

Purpose

• Standard gypsum plasterboard, also known as basic. It consists of a sheet of pressed gypsum, covered with cardboard on both sides, and is designated by the abbreviation GKL. The most common type of plasterboard sheet, widely used for finishing rooms with normal humidity levels.
• Moisture-resistant plasterboard (GKLV) is designed for use in rooms with high humidity levels. The moisture-resistant sheet contains special water-repellent additives that reduce its hygroscopicity. In this regard, gypsum board sheets can be used to cover bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens.
• Fire-resistant sheet – designation GKLO. Intended for finishing rooms with an increased risk of fire. Thanks to the treatment with fire retardants, such sheets can withstand open flames twice as long.
• Fire-moisture resistant plasterboard (GKLVO). It has a whole range of improved properties – can be used in both wet and flammable areas. For example, it can be installed in kitchens with gas stoves.

Gypsum fiber sheet

A unique class of gypsum finishing material are referred to as gypsum fiber sheets (GVL). GVL slabs are composed of a 5 to 1 ratio of cellulose and gypsum fibers. The heightened strength of gypsum fiber sheets sets them apart from gypsum plasterboard. This allows for the attachment of fairly heavy suspended structures to the wall.

A single self-tapping screw installed in a wall made of gypsum plasterboard can support a weight of up to 30 kg.

GVL can be mounted directly on a level supporting base or on a frame that has already been assembled. Self-tapping screws are used in the first instance to secure the GVL to the wall, while construction adhesives are used in the second. Tile adhesive based on cement or polymers can also be used to attach sheets to brick and concrete surfaces. GVL adhesive is available in two varieties: silicone sealant and "liquid nails."

Selecting the appropriate drywall for your walls is crucial to achieving a long-lasting and seamless finish. Different types of drywall are suitable for different purposes. While moisture-resistant drywall is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, standard drywall works well for most interior walls. Fire-resistant drywall is the best option for locations where there is a high risk of fire. Furthermore, take into account employing soundproof drywall if soundproofing is important. Choosing the best drywall will help you create long-lasting and functional walls by helping you understand the unique needs of each room.

Dimensions

Particular attention should be given to the size of the sheet in order to provide a more comprehensive answer to the question of which drywall is best to use in a given situation. The table displays the typical measurements for drywall.

Dimensions of plaster boards made of gypsum from different manufacturers

It is best to choose a plasterboard sheet size that is a multiple of the sheathed surface’s length and width in order to maximize material costs. There will be less non-target waste in this instance.

Selecting the appropriate drywall for your walls can have a big impact on the final product’s durability and quality. For the majority of interior walls, regular drywall is a flexible choice that provides a smooth, paintable surface. For living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where moisture isn’t an issue, it’s a good all-around option.

Moisture-resistant drywall, also referred to as green board, is a better choice for spaces with higher levels of moisture and humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or basements. This kind of drywall has a unique coating that helps keep mold and mildew from growing, extending the life of your walls.

Use soundproof drywall in areas like bedrooms or home offices where reducing noise is a top concern. This kind of drywall includes extra layers and materials that reduce noise, making your house cozier and quieter.

For

Video on the topic

Which socket box to choose for hollow walls/ how to choose a socket box for plasterboard .

Drywall adhesive. Secrets and features of work. Brief and to the point.