Drywall or Plasterboard?
Deciding between plasterboard and drywall shouldn’t be daunting since they both refer to the same product: gypsum boards. These versatile boards come in various sizes, with 8ft x 4ft (2400cm x 1200cm) sheets being the most common, and typically with a ½” – 12.5 mm thickness. Plus, they offer different types to suit your needs, such as standard, mould or moisture resistant, and fire resistant options.
For construction or renovation projects, drywall proves to be a top choice due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Whether you’re a seasoned tradesman or a DIY enthusiast, dry lining can yield impressive results. Compared to wet plastering, it’s not only more affordable but also quicker to install, saving you both time and money. With drywall, you can achieve a smooth and polished finish without the hassle, making it an ideal solution for a range of applications.
What is Plasterboard or Drywall?
Plasterboard is a type of building material used extensively in interior construction. It consists of a core made from gypsum plaster, a naturally occurring mineral, which is sandwiched between two layers of paper.
- Gypsum Core: The core of plasterboard is made from gypsum plaster, which is a soft sulphate mineral composed of calcium sulphate dihydrate. Gypsum is widely available and is known for its fire-resistant properties, which makes plasterboard a popular choice for fire-rated walls and ceilings.
- Paper Facing: The gypsum core is encased between two layers of heavy-duty paper. These paper facings provide strength, durability, and a smooth surface for finishing. The facing papers are typically made from recycled materials and are designed to resist moisture and damage during handling and installation.
Installing the Plasterboard
- Prepare the area: Ensure that the area where you’ll be installing the plasterboard is clean, dry, and free of any debris. If necessary, install framing or studs to provide support for the plasterboard.
- Measure and cut: Measure the dimensions of the area where the plasterboard will be installed and mark the measurements on the plasterboard sheets. Use a utility knife or a drywall saw to cut the plasterboard to the appropriate size.
- Attach the plasterboard: Position the plasterboard sheets against the framing or studs, making sure they fit snugly together without any gaps. Use drywall screws to secure the plasterboard to the framing, spacing the screws about every 6-8 inches along the edges and every 12 inches in the centre of the sheet.
- Tape and mud joints: Apply plasterboard tape over the seams between the plasterboard sheets, pressing it firmly into the joint. Then, using a taping knife, apply joint compound (also known as mud) over the tape, feathering the edges to create a smooth transition. Allow the joint compound to dry completely.
- Sand and finish: Once the joint compound is dry, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or uneven areas. Apply additional coats of joint compound as needed, sanding between coats, until the surface is smooth and seamless.
- Prime and paint: Prime the plasterboard surface to seal it and provide a smooth base for painting. Once the primer is dry, apply paint in your desired colour to finish the installation.
We can all appreciate and value the use of hand tools for various jobs, from the classic hammer to screwdrivers and many more; however, specialized power tools can ease our efforts and return better time management.
The Advantages of Using Collated Guns
Using collated screws or nails with a collated gun can indeed be a convenient and efficient way to install plasterboard. Collated screws or nails are typically used with specialised screw guns or nail guns designed for this purpose. These tools can speed up the installation process significantly compared to manually driving individual screws or nails.
When using a collated gun for plasterboard installation, it’s essential to ensure that you select the appropriate type and size of screws or nails compatible with both the collated gun and the plasterboard. Additionally, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the collated gun and the fasteners to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.
| Advantage | Description |
| Speed and Efficiency | Collated guns automatic screw feeding, speeding up the process, ideal for large-scale projects. |
| Reduced Fatigue | Requires less physical effort compared to manual screw driving, reducing operator fatigue and enhancing productivity. |
| Consistency and Accuracy | Ensures consistent screw depth and alignment, leading to professional results and minimising errors or rework. |
| Versatility | Available in various models for different screws and applications, making them versatile tools for professionals in various industries. |
| Time Savings | Saves time during setup and clean-up by eliminating manual handling of screws, contributing to faster project completion. |
| Cost Savings | Despite initial investment, they offer long-term savings through increased productivity, reduced labour costs, and fewer errors. |
| Enhanced Safety | Features safety mechanisms such as depth adjustment settings and trigger locks, reducing the risk of accidents during operation. |
Our top Picks for Collated Screwdrivers and Drywall Cutters
DeWalt DCF620D2K 18V Brushless Collated Drywall Screwdriver with 2x 2.0Ah Batteries
- Powerful brushless motor
- Light and compact tool making it ideal for use in tight spaces
- Quick release collated screw magazine accepts most collated screws
- Magazine rotates on the tool without removal to allow use in corners with minimum fuss
- Tool free depth control and fine depth control
- LED work light
- Trigger lock & ergonomically designed rubber grip for excellent user comfort
Makita DFR550Z LXT 18V Cordless Auto-Feed Screwdriver (Body Only)
- Forward/reverse rotation – operable with one hand
- Adjustable Stopper Base with 7 different setting for different screw lengths – 4 x 25 – 55m
- Rubber Cap securely fixed to Stopper Base for accurate positioning and slip prevention
- Anti tilt device – prevents the screw from swaying
- Dust proof construction – for smooth sliding action
- Silent clutch – less noise at the end of driving process
- Screw Guide – designed to keep screw strips from tangling and is foldable for tool storage and transportation
Forgefix 3.9 x 38mm Black Phosphate Collated Drywall Screws 1000 Pack
- Coarse Thread Specialist Screw.
- Countersunk Phillips Drive Bugle.
- Black phosphate finish.
Senco SEN39A45MP DuraSpin Collated Screws Drywall to Wood 3.9 x 45mm (Pack 1000)
- Collated Screws for Drywall to Wood
- Phillips No.2 drive
- Black phosphate finish.
Makita DCO180Z 18V Cordless Drywall Cutter (Body Only)
- Ergonomic barrel handle with soft grip.
- High rotation speed for fast cutting.
- Shoe plate with tool function can be used as a wrench for bit replacement.
- Compact & Lightweight.
- Anti-restart function.
- Ideal for making outlet holes in drywall at construction or renovation sites.
- Soft start feature.
- Electronic current limiter for overload protection.
FAQ
What are the advantages of plasterboard?
Plasterboard offers several advantages, including easy installation, fire resistance, sound insulation, and a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering.
Can plasterboard be used in wet areas like bathrooms?
Traditional plasterboard is not suitable for wet areas due to its vulnerability to moisture damage. However, moisture-resistant or waterproof plasterboard, often referred to as green board or cement board, can be used in these areas.
How do I repair damaged plasterboard?
Small holes or cracks in plasterboard can be repaired by filling them with joint compound, sanding them smooth, and then repainting or re-papering the surface. Larger repairs may require cutting out the damaged section and patching it with a new piece of plasterboard.
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