When you are working with plasterboard, it’s imperative that you handle it carefully and store it properly, in order to maintain its overall integrity and functionality. Improper practices can result in damage to your plasterboard, and this can mean extra costs and long delays. Ensuring a planned approach to handling and storage not only preserves the quality of the plasterboard but also contributes to a smooth construction process, reducing the risk of setbacks and additional expenses. In this blog post, we list some of the best practices for storing and handling your plasterboard. Follow our tips below to keep your plasterboard in pristine condition from the warehouse to the final installation. 

    What are Plasterboard Sensitivities? 

Plasterboard is susceptible to moisture, physical impact, and bending. Awareness of these sensitivities is key in preventing damage. It’s essential to handle plasterboard with care, ensuring it stays dry, flat, and free from undue pressure. Proper storage in a dry and controlled environment further safeguards the plasterboard against potential issues, highlighting the importance of a planned approach to maintain its structural integrity during construction projects. 

    Proper Storage Techniques

 First of all, keep your plasterboard dry. Plasterboard absorbs moisture, which can compromise its structural integrity. Store it in a dry, covered area, preferably indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, elevate the plasterboard off the ground and use a waterproof cover, ensuring water doesn’t pool on top of the sheets.Secondly, lay it flat. Always store your plasterboard flat. Stacking it vertically or on its edge can cause warping or cracking. Use wooden pallets or a flat, level surface to lay the sheets down. Likewise, avoid over-stacking. Placing too many sheets on top of each other can cause the bottom sheets to bend or break under the weight. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on safe stacking heights. 

    Handling Plasterboard Safely

 When it comes to handling plasterboard, team lifting is the best way to go. Plasterboard sheets are large and cumbersome, making them difficult to handle alone. Use team lifting techniques for safe and efficient handling, especially for larger sheets.In addition, make sure you use the right equipment. For moving multiple sheets or longer distances, use trolleys or panel lifters designed for plasterboard. This reduces the risk of damage and injury. When stacking plasterboard, lower each sheet gently onto the stack. Dropping or throwing sheets can cause the edges to crumble or the board to crack. 

    Transporting Plasterboard 

When loading plasterboard onto your vehicle, ensure it’s well-secured but not under excessive strapping pressure, which can cause cracking. Also, choose a route that is less bumpy, in order to minimise vibration and jolting during transportation, as these can lead to cracking or breaking. If you are transporting plasterboard on an open vehicle, cover it to protect it from moisture and dirt. 

    Site Handling Practices

 When you get to the site, make sure you unload plasterboard as soon as you arrive. This reduces the risk of damage due to weather exposure or accidental impact. Carry plasterboard sheets one at a time and hold them at the edges, not the surface, to prevent finger impressions or surface damage. Lastly, the edges of plasterboard are particularly vulnerable. Be cautious not to knock the edges against hard surfaces. 

    Post-Installation Storage 

If you have leftover plasterboard after installation, ensure that you store it in a dry, flat area. Reapply the storage best practices, keeping the plasterboard in a dry, flat area until its next use. Also, cover the plasterboard to protect it from dust and moisture. Proper post-installation storage not only preserves the quality of the remaining plasterboard but also ensures that it is readily available and in optimal condition for any future construction or renovation needs. 

Buy Bulk Plasterboard

At Online Insulation, we take pride in offering a wide range of top-quality plasterboard products to enhance and transform your living spaces. Our selection includes renowned brands such as Hardie Backer, Knauf gypsum plasterboard, and British Gypsum, ensuring you get the best for your construction or renovation projects.We offer an extensive collection, featuring standard plasterboard, fire-resistant options, insulated variants, moisture-resistant boards, and more. We provide competitive prices and bulk deals to cater to your specific needs. If you can’t find your desired product or need advice on alternative brands like Siniat, our team is ready to assist.Contact us at info@onlineinsulation-sales.com or call 01509 649065. We also provide free nationwide shipping, with conditions applied. We look forward to hearing from you soon.