Plasterboard, also commonly known as drywall or gypsum board, is a widely used material in the construction industry to line ceilings and walls or create partitions. It provides a smooth and durable surface that can be easily finished and painted. However, many people don’t realise just how many different types of plasterboard there are on the market. Different types of plasterboard have unique characteristics and are designed for specific applications. To help you choose the best plasterboard for your project, our experienced team has compared the different types of plasterboard below. 

Common Types of Plasterboard 

Generally speaking, when you’re shopping for plasterboard, you will come across the following types of plasterboard; 

    Standard Plasterboard

Standard plasterboard is the most commonly used type of plasterboard. This type of plasterboard is suitable for most general applications in both residential and commercial buildings. It is available in various thicknesses and can be used for walls, partitions and ceilings. Standard plasterboard provides a good balance of affordability and ease of installation.

    Insulated Plasterboard

Insulated plasterboard combines plasterboard and insulation into one product. It features a layer of insulation material on the back of the plasterboard, such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyisocyanurate (PIR). Insulated plasterboard provides both thermal and acoustic insulation, making it a great option for improving energy efficiency and soundproofing in buildings. This type of plasterboard is often used in renovations when space is limited.

    Sound Resistant Plasterboard

Sound resistant plasterboard, also called soundproof plasterboard or acoustic plasterboard, reduces sound transmission between spaces. This plasterboard has a dense core that helps to block out noise and it’s commonly used in spaces where noise reduction is a priority, such as music studios and conference rooms. It’s available in various thicknesses and can be used with other soundproofing materials to improve acoustic performance.

    Moisture Resistant Plasterboard

Moisture resistant plasterboard is specifically designed for rooms prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms. It has additives in the core which repel moisture and make it more resistant to water damage and mould growth. This type of plasterboard is often more expensive than standard plasterboard but provides increased durability and protection against moisture-related problems.

    Fire Resistant Plasterboard

Fire resistant plasterboard provides increased fire resistance. It’s manufactured with enhanced fireproof qualities and it can be used on both walls and ceilings. This type of plasterboard can withstand fire for a specified period, allowing more time for people to evacuate a building in an emergency. It’s typically installed in areas where fire safety is critical, such as stairways and corridors in commercial buildings.

Tapered Edge Plasterboard Vs Square Edge Plasterboard 

When you’re choosing plasterboard for your project, you will come across two common design options; tapered edge plasterboard and square edge plasterboard. These types of plasterboard differ in the way the edges are finished and the way they’re installed. Tapered edge plasterboard has sloped edges, allowing for easy jointing and a seamless finish. It’s used for creating smooth, professional-looking walls, partitions and ceilings. On the other hand, square edge plasterboard has square edges without any taper. This type of plasterboard is often used when a more defined edge or shadow line effect is desired. Square edge plasterboard requires more work during installation to achieve a seamless finish. Ultimately, the choice between tapered edge and square edge plasterboard depends on your preferred aesthetic, the level of skill you have and the time set aside for installation. 

Purchasing Affordable, Bulk Plasterboard

It’s fair to say there is a type of plasterboard for every application and now you know more about the different options available, you can ensure you’re purchasing the best solution for your project. When searching for somewhere to order bulk plasterboard at an affordable price, be sure to explore the rest of the Online Insulation website. At Online Insulation, we make it easy for our customers to order the high-quality dry-lining products they need. Since 2015, we have been the go-to company for many DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors, and we are known for our competitive prices on bulk orders. While we keep our prices low, we don’t compromise on our service and we offer expert knowledge and speedy delivery to all customers.