DIY Plasterboard Installation

Plasterboard is used in a range of DIY projects, not just to line walls and ceilings but to divide spaces and create partitions. Improving your home’s interior and creating your ideal living space is easy when you invest in high-quality dry-lining products. However, a project of this kind requires careful planning and execution to ensure a good end result. If you’ve never installed plasterboard before and you’re wondering where to start, keep reading today. Our experienced team has put together some useful advice to help you with your DIY home improvement project.

Planning and Preparation

Before you start installing plasterboard in your home, you need to ensure you’re properly planning and preparing. We would always recommend that you; 

    Carefully measure the area – To help you calculate the number of plasterboard sheets you need and prevent over or under-ordering, measure the dimensions of the wall or ceiling where the plasterboard will be installed. It’s beneficial to order a couple of extra sheets just in case you make a mistake when cutting too. 

 

    Gather the right tools and materials – Make sure you have all the tools you need for the job, including a utility knife and a spirit level. Think about how you’re going to secure the plasterboard too and purchase the right adhesive, screws or jointing compound as well.

 

    Think about safety – It’s always important to think about safety during any DIY renovation project. When you’re installing plasterboard, you should wear safety goggles, gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself. 

Storing and Cutting 

    Correctly store the sheets of plasterboard – Once your plasterboard order has arrived, make sure you’re storing it in a dry area and on a flat surface. This will help to protect the sheets from moisture damage and prevent warping. 

 

    Measure twice, cut once – Similarly to other DIY projects, you need to carefully measure and mark the plasterboard sheets before you start cutting them. This is particularly important if you’re installing them around pipes or plug sockets, for example. Once you’ve measured and marked them, use a utility knife to score the front paper and then snap the plasterboard. You may then need to cut through the back paper.

Installation 

    Complete one area before starting the next – If you’re installing plasterboard in multiple areas, finish one before you start working on the next. Start by installing the plasterboard on the ceiling before moving on to the walls to avoid future problems.  Properly secure the plasterboard – Whether you’re using adhesives or screws, make sure you’re fully securing the plasterboard. The amount of adhesive or number of screws you need to use will depend on the type of plasterboard you’ve purchased and it’s important to make sure you’re properly supporting the weight of each sheet. 

Jointing and Finishing

    Cover any gaps between plasterboard sheets – Once the plasterboard is fixed in place, apply self-adhesive paper joint tape to the joints between the plasterboard sheets. Make sure you smooth the tape out with a knife so that it adheres well.

 

    Carefully apply a joint compound – To cover the tape and prepare the plasterboard to be finished, use a joint compound. Apply this in thin coats and feather the edges to create a smooth transition. Allow the compound to dry and then sand it down to get a smooth, level surface. You may need to apply more coats.

 

    Clean the surface before priming – Once the joint compound is completely dry and you’ve sanded the surface, don’t forget to wipe away any dust or debris before priming and painting the plasterboard. This will help you to achieve a professional finish.

Searching for the Cheapest Place to Buy Plasterboard?

Hopefully, the advice above will be beneficial if you’re planning a DIY project that involves installing plasterboard. With some careful planning, the right tools and a good technique, you will be left with the smooth, seamless surface you need. When searching for the cheapest place to buy plasterboard for your project, explore the Online Insulation website today. As a UK-based dry-lining shop, we can supply you with the essentials you need. We supply all leading brands of plasterboard in a range of sizes and we are known for providing quality products at very low prices. We have over 100 distribution points, enabling us to source your requirements promptly and you won’t be disappointed with the service you receive. There is no better company to turn to for high-quality, cheap plasterboard.