What type of drywall has the highest density? Types of drywall and their purpose

Drywall: general information

Drywall as a finishing material has been known for a long time. Gypsum has been used in construction since ancient times. But a breakthrough in plasterboard production technologies occurred relatively recently. Due to its physical and hygienic properties, plasterboard is ideal for residential premises. It is environmentally friendly, does not contain toxic components and does not have a harmful effect on the environment, which is confirmed by hygiene and radiation certificates. Drywall is an energy-saving material that also has good soundproofing properties. Non-flammable and fire resistant. It should be noted that drywall “breathes”, that is, it absorbs moisture when there is an excess of it in the air and releases it if the air is too dry. This is a very important, one might say, invaluable quality of the material used indoors. With such walls it is easier to breathe. Plus - drywall has an acidity similar to that of human skin. The last two properties allow plasterboard to regulate the microclimate of rooms in a natural way and significantly contribute to the creation of a harmonious atmosphere.

The industry produces, in addition to standard plasterboard sheets (GKL), fire-resistant (GKLO) and water-resistant (GKLV). The latter contain substances that destroy fungi; they are used for finishing kitchens, bathrooms and bathrooms. Fire-resistant ones are used for finishing all kinds of air ducts and communication shafts. There are also so-called tongue-and-groove slabs, in which gypsum is fired. Their strength increases so much that they can be used as interior partitions, painted, wallpapered or covered with ceramic tiles without any preparation. Such partitions come in one-, two- and three-layer types. The latter are applicable in seismically hazardous areas, for residential, civil and industrial buildings of all degrees of fire resistance. Their cavities can accommodate electrical and telephone cables, dust removal systems, heating and plumbing communications.

Experts also value this material for its excellent technological properties. Drywall is lightweight. When using it, inconvenient “wet” processes that create uncomfortable conditions at the site are eliminated, labor productivity increases significantly, and therefore cleaning time is saved. Carrying out renovations in an apartment or office significantly reduces the amount of construction waste.

Drywall was not invented today; in the form of flat sheets it has long been used for interior decoration and leveling walls, sometimes it is called “dry plaster.” We are talking about a new technology for its use. When the so-called “European-quality renovation” came into fashion with its increased requirements for the geometry of rooms and the quality of surfaces, a rebirth of this material took place. Architects discovered that the sheets could be shaped into any shape they wanted. Dome coverings, columns, arches of all types, complex transitions from one plane to another, curved surfaces - all these structures can be made of plasterboard. The system of metal frames, assembled from standard prefabricated profiles, is designed so that walls of any complex shape can be created. A new method of “dry construction” has appeared, where there is no “wet” plaster or mandatory wallpaper.

Partitions and walls made of plasterboard

When constructing walls and interior partitions, complete systems are widely used. Their main advantage is the exclusion from the construction process of work associated with the use of liquid masonry and plaster mortars. Therefore, this method can be characterized as “dry” construction.

Let's consider the structure of walls and partitions, the technology of their construction and related materials. Walls and partitions made using the system TIGES knauf, are a frame made of metal profiles, covered with plasterboard sheets (GKL), with heat and sound insulation slabs laid between them.

Plasterboard sheets (GKL)

Gypsum plasterboard sheets (GKL), which can also be called dry plaster or gypsum panels (in everyday life - gypsum) - is a construction and finishing material for making internal partitions, suspended ceilings, wall cladding, etc. The special properties of gypsum plasterboard sheets allow them to be bent, giving different configurations, make it possible to create curved surfaces. A plasterboard sheet consists of a gypsum core lined on both sides with cardboard (Fig. 1).

For the manufacture of the core, G-4 gypsum is used, which has the qualities necessary for use in construction. Drywall made on its basis has the property of absorbing excess moisture from the environment, and when conditions change, on the contrary, releasing it. We can say that plasterboard sheet has the ability to “breathe”. In addition, gypsum is fire-resistant and non-toxic.

To increase the density and strength of the gypsum core, special components are added to it, and the surfaces are covered with facing cardboard. The adhesion of the cardboard to the gypsum core is carried out using adhesive additives. The cardboard serves as a reinforcing frame for the plasterboard sheet, while being the basis for subsequent finishing work. In addition, it has all the hygienic and environmental qualities necessary for use in residential premises.

Drywall sheets are rectangular in shape and have the following dimensions:

• with a thickness of 8, 10, 12.5 and 14 mm, the length of the elements is 2500-3000 mm;
• with a thickness of 16, 18, 20, and 24 mm, length - 2500-4800 mm.
• The width of the gypsum plaster sheets in all cases is 1200 mm (except for elements with a thickness of 24 mm, which have a width of 600 mm).

The most common are plasterboard sheets measuring 2500x1200x12.5 mm.

The plasterboard panels discussed here have three types of longitudinal edges. To perform finishing work, gypsum boards with thinning on the front side of the longitudinal edges are used. This is necessary to obtain an invisible and reliable seam at the junction of plasterboard sheets.

There are two types of edges, and in both cases the thinning begins at a distance of 50 mm from the longitudinal end on the front side of the plasterboard sheet. But if in one case the longitudinal edge has a straight shape - “UK” (Fig. 2), then in the other it is somewhat rounded on the front side - “PUK” (Fig. 3). The rounded edge allows you to seal the joints between sheets without the use of special reinforcing tape, only with putty. The type of sheet with straight edges - “PC” (Fig. 4) - is used mainly for making internal layers or for filling cavities of partitions. To install seams at the joints of gypsum boards with straight edges, it is necessary to chamfer their ends at an angle of 45 degrees with a thickness of one third of the sheet.

Drywall is available in several modifications that correspond to various operating conditions. For rooms with high humidity, moisture-resistant plasterboard sheets - “GKLV” - are used. The layers of cardboard in such plasterboard sheets are subjected to special treatment with antiseptics (to prevent the formation of mold and fungi) and waterproofing compounds. In rooms where there is a risk of fire, it is necessary to use fire-resistant plasterboard - “GKLO”. For its production, special additives are used to increase the fire resistance of the material. In addition, gypsum plasterboard sheets with increased fire resistance - “GLO” and various types of combined panels - “GKP” are produced.

1. Gypsum plasterboard sheet "GKL" 2. The structure of a plasterboard sheet with thinned rectangular edges (1 – side edge of the sheet; 2 – front side; 3 – back side). 3. The structure of a plasterboard sheet with thinned longitudinal edges with rounding (1 – side edge of the sheet; 2 – front side; 3 – back side). 4. The structure of a plasterboard sheet with straight edges (1 – side edge of the sheet; 2 – front side; 3 – back side).

5. Rack profile (PS-profile) 6. Installation of drywall on the profile 7. PN profile 8. PU profile (31 x 31) 9. Decorating corners 10. Arched profile (PA-profile)

Metal frame for gypsum boards

The structural basis of the interior partitions of the TIGI knauf system is a rigid metal frame. It is mounted from several types of steel profiles that have different functional loads. The profiles are made from steel strip 0.55-0.8 mm thick by cold rolling. To protect against possible exposure to aggressive environments, metal profiles for gypsum boards are galvanized. In a normal air environment, a layer of zinc carbonate forms on the galvanized surface of the profile, which prevents further oxidation of the material. An effective protective coating is obtained as a result of strong adhesion between steel and the outer layer of zinc. When shortening profiles, the cut points do not require additional anti-corrosion treatment. Knauf TIGI system profiles are available in lengths of 2750, 3000, 4000 and 6000 mm (if desired, you can order elements of the required length).

During operation, structures made of metal profiles must withstand loads from their own weight, plasterboard facing panels, additional finishing and possible hanging elements. For this purpose, stiffening ribs are made on the profile planes - longitudinal corrugations.

Rack profiles for drywall

There are several types of profiles that have different functions. First of all, these are “PS” rack profiles. These profiles have a cross-section in the form of a channel. They are used as vertical frame posts for attaching plasterboard sheets to them.

The central segment of the PS profile is the back, to which two shelves are bent at right angles (Fig. 5). Shelf profiles of all sizes have a width of 50 mm. The backrest width can be nominally 50, 65, 75 and 100 mm. Accepted designations for rack profiles are PS50/50, PS65/50, PS75/50, PS100/50 (the width of the backrest is indicated first in mm). The actual width of the backrest is slightly less than the nominal width. For example, for the PS50/50 rack profile, the actual width of the backrest is 48.5 mm. This ensures a strong, but without deformation, adhesion of the rack and guide profiles. A sufficient width of the profile flange ensures that the screw gets into the required place, which is especially important for two-layer cladding. The profile flanges have longitudinal grooves along the entire length. There are three such grooves in total, with the middle one indicating the junction of the plasterboard sheets, and the two side ones centering the screws being screwed in (Fig. 6). The backs of the profiles have special holes necessary for laying utilities inside a wall or partition. These holes (usually paired) are located near the ends of the profiles and have a diameter of 33 mm.

Rack profiles are installed in guide profiles. To fasten them together, screws are used or the cutting and folding method is used. Installation of plasterboard sheets on rack profiles is carried out in the direction of the open part of the profile. The screws are first screwed into the profile flange near the back and only then at the opposite edge. If the procedure is reversed, the profile flange may bend inward. To correctly select the profile size, it is necessary to take into account the planned height of the partition, its design features (single-layer or two-layer cladding), as well as sound and heat insulation requirements.

Guide profiles

Another element of the metal frame is the “PN” guide profiles (Fig. 7). They also have a cross-section in the form of a channel and are used as a guide base for rack profiles. In addition, PN profiles can be used to make jumpers between rack profiles. This is necessary, for example, for installing door frames in partitions.

The back of the PN profile has two longitudinal stiffeners. Guide profiles are available in the following sizes: PN50/40, PN65/40, PN75/40 and PN100/40 (the width of the back is indicated first). The dimensions of the backs of PN profiles correspond to the dimensions of the backs of PS profiles.

The backs of the guide profiles have holes with a diameter of 8 mm for installing dowels with which the profiles are attached to the load-bearing base. If necessary, additional holes are drilled in place. The shelf width of the PN profiles is 40 mm, which makes it possible to attach plasterboard sheets directly to it.

Corner profiles

The most vulnerable points of the Knauf TIGI system partitions are the external corner joints. To make such joints, gypsum panels with straight edges are used. However, in this case, the likelihood of mechanical damage to the corners of the partitions during operation increases. To avoid this, PU corner profiles are used (Fig. 8).

The angle between the flanges of the PU profile is 85 degrees, which ensures its tight fit to the right angle of the partition (see Fig. 9). The element shelves are perforated with holes with a diameter of 5 mm. During the installation process, these holes are filled with putty, which is applied to the surface of the PU profiles. This achieves the necessary adhesion between the metal profile and the plasterboard sheet.

When making curved surfaces from gypsum panels, arched profiles are used (Fig. 10). They are made from PP60/27 ceiling profiles (for ceiling profiles and ceilings made with their help, see link). The bending radius varies (but not less than 500 mm). The PP profile shelves can be directed both inward and outward of the bending arc.

Insulation material

Polystyrene foam is provided as a heat and sound insulating material in complete TIGI knauf systems (although the use of mineral wool and similar boards is acceptable). This material is made from suspension expanded polystyrene and is a rigid thermoplastic foam consisting of fused granules. The structure of the granules is formed by microscopic pores filled with air. Expanded polystyrene is almost 98% air and only 2% is the plastic itself. This is what determines the high heat and sound insulation properties of the material.

In addition to low thermal conductivity, polystyrene foam has a stable structure over a wide temperature range. It resists well the effects of various chemicals, both alkaline and slightly acidic. Expanded polystyrene does not create a breeding ground for fungi and mold. The advantages of expanded polystyrene include durability and environmental friendliness. The disadvantage of polystyrene foam is its combustibility. To reduce the fire hazard, a fire retardant is added to the described material. Accordingly, a distinction is made between expanded polystyrene with fire retardant - “PSB-S” and without it - “PSB”.

Plates of insulating material are produced in lengths from 900 to 5000 mm (50 mm interval), width from 500 to 1300 mm (50 mm interval) and thickness from 20 to 500 mm (10 mm interval). Expanded polystyrene is installed in the internal space of a wall or partition. As a rule, slabs with a thickness of 40 mm are used, and a small gap should be left between them and the cladding sheets. The slabs are cut with a knife or saw according to the required dimensions. They are fastened with wall anchors with a pitch of 400-450 mm vertically and 900 mm horizontally (the use of glue is allowed for the same purposes).

Related materials

Among the operations performed when constructing walls and partitions using the TIGI knauf system, it is necessary to highlight the sealing of seams at the junction of plasterboard sheets. In “dry” construction technology, this is perhaps the only “wet” process that involves the use of aqueous solutions.

Sealing of seams between facing slabs can be done with or without reinforcing tape. In the first case, gypsum-based Fugenfüller joint putty is used. A layer of putty is applied to the junction of panels with thinned edges, then reinforcing tape is laid on it, and then another layer of putty is applied. In addition, this material is used to repair all kinds of surface defects in plasterboard sheets.

Uniflot joint putty is used when sealing joints without reinforcing tape. It should be noted that the materials used to make plasterboard cladding contain gypsum. Similar materials include Perlfix gypsum assembly adhesive. It is used for gluing gypsum panels and insulation boards. In addition, up to two dozen items of other related materials (putties, adhesives, joint fillers, etc.) are produced for construction work using the Knauf TIGI system.

Drywall dates back to the end of the 19th century, when the idea arose to combine delicate gypsum and elastic cellulose, and in Soviet times this mixture was called “dry plaster.” Truly drywall, its sizes and types became known during the period of the emergence of market relations and the increase in the financial condition of citizens. In connection with this, renovation and construction of residential premises expanded, drywall became a popular means and still remains so.

It consists of plaster surrounded on both sides by cardboard, which is why it is called so. Drywall is completely safe for human health,is environmentally friendly. Thanks to its smooth surface it can also be used for decorative purposes.

Types of drywall and where it is used

Manufacturers of this material adhere to the general principles and requirements for existing structures and structures and produce the main types: gypsum board and plasterboard.

Standard drywall

It has a light gray color, is also called construction (basic) and is intended for cladding walls and covering frames. Suitable for intricate design structures in normal humidity. Widely used for finishing apartments. Its price can range from 190 rubles per sheet.

Moisture resistant

Such drywall is suitable for rooms with varying degrees of humidity. Special modifiers have been added to its core,

the presence of which contributes to a rapid decrease in moisture absorption and the appearance of fungus.

Used not only in wet areas. Standard durable sheets are used to finish everything needed in a home. 1 sheet of such a representative can cost from 270 rubles.

Fire resistant

The core of this type of drywall is capable of resisting high temperatures for a long time, which prevents the further passage of smoke and fire. It is used for the construction of fire partitions, for covering cable ducts, ventilation, shafts, steel structures, and for insulating individual rooms in public buildings. The color of the cardboard is light or red.

Laminated

This is the newest type of drywall called LGKL, intended for interior wall decoration. In appearance, it looks like a regular one, the only difference is that its surface is covered with vinyl film (a paper-fabric laminated layer). The material is characterized by a variety of colors, patterns and textures, imitating stone, marble and other finishes.

The most popular panels for walls are “Gipsolam”.

The owners of the premises will be pleased with the cladding of such a product for the following reasons:

• repairs are carried out quickly;
• the colors are pleasing to the eye, they do not fade in the sun;
• can be attached without a frame and is not deformed;
• no putty or finishing required;
• environmentally friendly material;
• has excellent sound and heat insulation characteristics;
• dust does not settle on the surface, the material is fireproof, water-repellent, and can “breathe”;
• Suitable for creating partitions.

Read also

Two-level gypsum board ceilings

The price of laminated drywall starts from 340 rubles.

Perforated (acoustic)

It is used in rooms with noise absorption requirements; therefore, it has a perforated structure on the face and various edges. Can be covered with non-woven black or white fabric.

You need to work with such material carefully, only in this case the correct acoustics will be created. The best representatives are gypsum boards from the German company Knauf, widely used in many countries. It is an excellent soundproofing material. Regular drywall has these properties, but laminated drywall has these properties to a greater extent.

Such a representative is expensive, its cost starts from 1,700 rubles per sheet.

High strength plasterboard

The name of the product speaks for itself. This reinforced sample can withstand heavy loads and is used in various rooms. There are also specimens with additional properties, for example, fire-resistant or moisture-repellent.
Well-known companies, such as Knauf, produce varieties of “massive” GKLVU, 25, 20 and 18 mm thick. These are high-strength slabs, their cost is from 340 rubles per piece.

Designer plasterboard

Otherwise, the material is called arched. It is used to construct complex structures with bending parts of a certain radius, for example, arches or various suspended ceilings. The designer-looking slabs have a slight thickness - 6-6.5 mm, and their core contains a reinforced fiberglass mesh in several layers. Its cost can range from 320 rubles per sheet.

Difference between drywall edges

Drywall is also divided according to the type of edges.

Representatives of UK and PLUK, which have a beveled edge, are very popular. This allows you to seal the seams so that there are no protrusions.

Drywall sheet dimensions

A typical sheet of drywall has the following dimensions:

To choose the appropriate type of material, you need to know the dimensions of drywall required for a certain plane:

• the arched representative has a small thickness - 6.5 mm, it is possible to bend it to the desired radius;
• the wall one has a thickness of 12.5 mm, with its help they create all kinds of partitions, niches, and level the walls;
• ceiling has a thickness of 8 to 9.5 mm. This is a lightweight version of the usual material; with its help, when constructing suspended ceilings, a wider arrangement of the profile in the plasterboard frame is possible. The ceiling representative is cheaper than the wall one.

Common material sizes are:

• 3000x1200 mm;
• 2500×1200 mm;
• 2000×1200 mm;

Having visited any hardware store or supermarket, you will see a wide range of plasterboard sheets, varying in prices and characteristics. It will not be easy to make a choice right away; you should first familiarize yourself with some recommendations so that after some time after the renovation, cracks do not appear in the room under the expensive wallpaper, the fashionable ceiling does not sag, fungus does not appear in a damp room, and there is no need to skimp on material.

Manufacturers

The production of drywall is constantly being improved, it is advisable to pay attention to new products, but you should not forget about existing brands. 70% of consumers choose products from the German company Knauf; some prefer such sales representatives as Rigips, Lafarge, Giproc, and Russian brands Gips, Volma, Magma.

More selection criteria

When choosing the type of drywall needed for repair, you should consider the following indicators:

Tsugunov Anton Valerievich

Reading time: 5 minutes

Drywall is a modern material for interior decoration, which is at the peak of its popularity today. The combination of great capabilities and affordable prices makes plasterboard sheets (GKL) an indispensable material for leveling walls, erecting interior partitions, designing door and window slopes, creating suspended ceilings, curved surfaces and structures of a wide variety of shapes. Let's consider the technical characteristics that a high-quality sheet of drywall should have in accordance with GOST requirements, and find out which types of material should be preferred for use in certain conditions.

A plasterboard sheet is a rectangular product consisting of pressed gypsum grade G4 (GOST 125-79), enclosed on both sides in a thin layer of durable cardboard. In addition to gypsum and cellulose, in the production of gypsum boards it is possible to use various adhesives and foaming agents for the gypsum component. The perfectly flat surface and strength of plasterboard allow it to act simultaneously as a reinforcing frame and the basis for finishing.

70% of drywall presented on the Russian market is produced under the Knauf brand. Knauf plasterboard products comply with Russian standards GOST 6266-97 and GOST 32614-2012, as well as the German standard DIN 18 180.

GCR classification

The technical characteristics of plasterboard sheets depend on what type they belong to. According to GOST 6266-97, the following types of plasterboard are distinguished:

• regular - denoted by the abbreviation GKL;
• moisture resistant - gypsum plasterboard;
• plasterboard with increased fire resistance - gypsum plasterboard;
• a material that combines the properties of a moisture-resistant material and increased resistance to open fire - GKLVO.

In 2012, a new interstate standard was adopted, developed in collaboration with Knauf. In GOST 32614-2012, which has been in force in Russia since 2015, plasterboard is called gypsum building boards. According to the new GOST, the material is divided into 8 types:

• A – drywall corresponding to standard plasterboard;
• N – moisture-resistant gypsum boards;
• F – fire-resistant boards;
• D – slabs having a given density, which depends on operating conditions;
• I – material with increased hardness;
• E – facade slabs with low water absorption and minimal vapor permeability;
• P – products intended for subsequent application of gypsum plaster or laying tiles;
• R is a material with increased bending strength in any direction.

Standard or ordinary gypsum plasterboard (GSP-A according to the new GOST), which is also called construction or basic, is used more often than other types for finishing apartments. With its help, and wall frames made of metal and wood. It has a light gray surface and can only be used in rooms with normal humidity. Standard drywall.

Moisture-resistant gypsum board

Moisture-resistant plasterboard GKLV (according to the new standard - GSP-H2) is used in rooms with medium and high humidity. The resistance of the material to moisture is achieved by adding modifiers to the gypsum that reduce its absorbency, as well as antifungal compounds. The moisture-resistant appearance of drywall is easily recognizable due to the green color of the surface. The scope of application of moisture-resistant material is wider than that of basic plasterboard and includes such premises as a kitchen, bathroom, heated loggia, insulated balcony. GKLV can be used for the manufacture of slopes; provided that high-quality waterproofing is used, it is even possible to finish the walls in the shower.

The moisture-resistant material absorbs no more than 10% moisture compared to conventional plasterboard.

Fire-resistant plasterboard

GKLO differs from other types of plasterboard by the presence of special additives in the gypsum core that provide resistance to high temperatures and prevent the spread of smoke and fire in the event of a fire. Knauf's fire-resistant material of increased density is designated GSP-DF.

According to GOST, the resistance of GKLO and GKLVO products to open fire must be at least 20 minutes.

The technical characteristics of this type of gypsum board create a separate area of ​​application: covering cable and ventilation ducts, steel and wooden structures that require fire protection. The cardboard layer of the fire-resistant sheet usually has a light pink tint; the marking, as required by GOST, must be red. For finishing wet rooms, plasterboard is used, designated by the letters GKLVO (GSP-DFH2 according to the new standard), which combines the properties of a fire and moisture resistant material.

The most fire-resistant drywall is Knauf Fireboard, which has additional fiberglass reinforcement.

High strength plasterboard

The use of reinforced plasterboard is advisable for large loads on the wall, or when it is necessary to fasten a heavy object. An example of such a material is Diamant plasterboard from Knauf. This manufacturer also produces products of large thickness (18, 20, 25 mm) called high-strength or solid slabs. Such material can also be fire and moisture resistant.

Product parameters

The main technical characteristics of drywall are regulated by GOST 6266-97.

Size

The size of the drywall sheet may vary:

• Standard product lengths are 2, 2.5 and 3 m. There are manufacturers producing sheets with lengths from 1.5 to 3.6 m.
• The sheet width is usually 1.2 m, although not so long ago small-format products with a width of 0.6 m appeared on sale, providing more convenient transportation.
• Sheet thickness can range from 6 to 12.5 mm. If we are talking about reinforced slabs, then we can talk about a greater thickness, reaching 25 mm. Sheets with a minimum thickness are intended for the manufacture of bent structures. Plasterboard with a thickness of 9 mm is used for the ceiling, 12.5 mm for the walls.

The most popular format of plasterboard sheet from Knauf is 250 x 120 cm.

Drywall is a very popular and versatile material for interior decoration of apartments, houses, and cottages. Used for finishing and leveling walls, creating multi-level ceilings, arches, boxes. Working with drywall is simple and does not require special skills or tools. In this article we will talk about the types of drywall, its sizes, properties and purpose.

To choose the right drywall for repairs, you need to have a good understanding of the following properties:

• Sheet color
• Marking color
• Edge shape
• Sheet sizes
• Purpose

After studying all the information, you can easily choose the material you need in the store.

History of the creation of drywall

Who invented drywall? Three people can be considered the inventors of drywall: Augustin Sackett, Clarence Utsmann and Stefan Kelly. The material was first invented more than 130 years ago. His homeland is the USA. During this time, gypsum plasterboard underwent some changes until it became a modern building material.

• 1881, USA. Augustine Sackett, a paper mill owner, received a patent for the first prototype of modern drywall. At that time, the sheet consisted not of two, but of ten layers of paper. The gypsum in such a sheet served more as a glue than as a durable core.
• 1917, England. Between 1910 and 1930, drywall evolved into its modern form. Now there are two layers of cardboard, and the layer of gypsum has been significantly increased. The second version of the gypsum board was patented by Clarence Utsmann and Stefan Kelly. They also came up with a folded edge made from cardboard. Production of this variant began at a factory in England in 1917.

Since then, only the composition of the gypsum has changed slightly, new additives have been introduced, but there have been no fundamental changes in the structure of the drywall.

What is drywall made of?

What is drywall? This is a building material in the form of a flat sheet with a thickness of 6 to 12 mm, consisting of a gypsum base and wrapped in thick cardboard. It is also known as “dry gypsum plaster”, also known as “GKL” or “plasterboard sheet”, also known as “GSP” or “gypsum building board”, also known as “drywall” in English.

Widely used in interior, less often in exterior decoration. Designed for quick alignment of walls and for implementing various design solutions - multi-level ceilings, partitions, niches, columns.

Composition of drywall. The raw material for the production of gypsum panels is gypsum dihydrate, its chemical composition is CaSO 4 2H 2 O. After heating in a special oven to a temperature of 150-180 degrees Celsius, rehydration occurs and CaSO 4 0.5H 2 O is obtained, after which calcium sulfate hemihydrate crushed into powder.

By mixing calcium sulfate hemihydrate with water, we again obtain gypsum dihydrate. During hydration, the plaster can be molded into any shape. The sheet hardens in a few minutes - from 2 to 30, depending on the adhesion class. This is how the gypsum base of the future plasterboard sheet is formed. Next, the panel is covered with cardboard. That's it, the production process is completed.

Harmful or not? The environmental friendliness of finishing materials is of great importance, especially for residential premises. The issue of harm to health worries consumers no less than quality or price.

Let's immediately dispel all fears:

Drywall is not dangerous to human health.

But for this, products must be manufactured in accordance with GOST, tested in laboratories and have the necessary certificates. If there are any, then gypsum boards can be freely used for finishing residential apartments, commercial premises, as well as children's educational and medical institutions. If there are certificates, any type of drywall is absolutely safe, it does not emit harmful substances, and there is no radiation.

To ensure the environmental friendliness of materials, ask for certificates and laboratory test reports from sellers or request them from the manufacturer.

We requested copies of documents from the drywall manufacturer Knauf. Click on the picture to view in full size.

You can find current copies of these and other documents on the official Knauf website.

Types of plasterboard sheets

Let's look at the main types of drywall used in the interior decoration of apartments and houses. There are only 4 types:

• Ordinary. GKL. The sheet is gray, the markings are blue.
• Water resistant. GKLV. The leaf is green, the markings are blue.
• Refractory. GKLO. The leaf is pink, the markings are red.
• Waterproof and fireproof. GKLVO. The leaf is green, the markings are red.

Waterproof and waterproof fireproof drywall have the same sheet color - green, but differ in the color of the markings. Waterproof is marked blue, while fireproof waterproof is marked red.

All other types of drywall are highly specialized and are rarely used in domestic construction. For example, this rare type includes façade plasterboard with yellow sheets. In Russia it is used very rarely; they treat it with distrust. But in other countries this material is used for exterior work; the main thing is to follow the technology when finishing walls.

Drywall sizes

When choosing the size of drywall, two parameters should be taken into account:

• Lenght and width
• Sheet thickness

Lenght and width. The standard width of a plasterboard sheet of any thickness is 1200mm. The length can vary from 1500mm to 3000mm. When choosing sizes, you should start from the finishing area. Work with the sheet that is most convenient for your space. For large rooms, choose the longest sheets, this will speed up finishing. In small rooms, it is more convenient to work with small sizes, since cutting and moving large sheets in cramped conditions will be problematic.

Sheet thickness. Depending on the thickness and application, plasterboard can be divided into three groups:

• Wall. The thickest sheet, 12.5 mm, is used for wall decoration. It is durable and can withstand various shelves, paintings and other interior attributes.
• Ceiling. 9mm sheet is intended for simple finishing of ceilings. It is convenient to finish large, flat areas with this material. The weight of the sheet is reduced due to the thickness, but the strength remains at a high level, eliminating sagging. A ceiling with such a sheet will look perfectly smooth.
• Arched. 6.5mm sheet is used for complex figured decoration of ceilings, arches, niches in walls, domes, columns and other design figures. It lends itself most easily to radial molding. With the wet method, the radius can be reduced to 300mm, with dry molding - up to 1000mm. You can't do this with thick sheets.

If there are no thin sheets, you can, of course, finish the ceiling and arches with plasterboard, but this will require additional time and putty.

Purpose of drywall

We figured out the technical characteristics of drywall - the color of the sheets and markings, properties and sizes. Now you need to understand where what type of drywall is used. Everything is simple here, since there are only four types - regular, waterproof, fireproof and waterproof fireproof, then their application is appropriate.

Ordinary. It is used in wall decoration and the construction of partitions. Sometimes used to finish the ceiling.

Water resistant. For finishing bathrooms, toilets, showers, saunas and any other room with high humidity. The cardboard layer is impregnated with a special composition that is resistant to moisture. But it is not enough; it is also necessary to use a special primer and putty; in case of direct contact with water on a wall with drywall, be sure to use waterproofing.

Refractory. It is a non-flammable material reinforced with fiberglass and clay. When cardboard burns, the gypsum layer remains unharmed and is able to withstand high temperatures for a long time, much longer than a regular sheet. Fire-resistant plasterboard is used in the construction of ventilation shafts, air ducts, ducts for electrical wiring, and fireplace chimneys. Naturally, in places with an increased risk of fire, not only fire-resistant plasterboard is used, but also special fasteners, metal corners, and fire-resistant mineral wool. Installation of sheets on wooden bars is not allowed, only on metal ones. Additional fire safety measures are also being taken.

Waterproof and fireproof. A hybrid that combines the properties of both fireproof and waterproof plasterboard. It is used in places with high humidity and high temperatures, for example, when finishing saunas.

In addition to the different types of drywall sheet itself, its edge also differs. It comes in two types:

• Factory
• Homemade

Factory edge. Different brands of drywall may have different edges. We list all the options for the edges encountered:

• Straight. PC. Sealing of seams is not required.
• Refined. UK. To seal the seams, putty and reinforcing tape are used.
• Semicircular front. PLC. Only putty is used to seal seams.
• Semicircular face thinned. PLUCK. To seal the seams, putty and reinforcing tape are used.
• Rounded. ZK. Only putty is used to seal seams.

Which edge to choose? Depends on your task. In some cases, the edge does not make any difference, and in others, the wrong choice of edge will incur unexpected costs to correct errors.

To finish walls and ceilings, choose plasterboard with a semicircular thinned edge to create a smooth wall without joints. The edge area is puttied and this levels the surface of the wall. If everything is done according to technology, the wall will be perfectly smooth and will never crack.

Incorrect edge selection will result in cracks.

Why does drywall need an edge of a certain shape? They would produce a rectangular edge and would not complicate the process of repair and production of the material, and the joints can be puttied on sheets with rectangular edges. It is possible, but cracks will appear in such joints over time. The edge and its correct putty can eliminate cracks and subsequent reworking of the surface.

Homemade edge. In the case when you need to join the straight edge of a sheet, you must make the edge on the sheet yourself. This is done using a special plasterboard edge plane.

The tool is quite simple and effective. The edge, of course, can be made manually with a construction knife, but for large volumes it is much more convenient to use a plane.

In this article we have provided only a list of existing edges. We will tell you in detail how to choose the right drywall edge and putty it to prevent cracks from appearing at the joints in a separate article.

Author of articles, entrepreneur and editor-in-chief of the magazine “Pro Dom”. From 2009 to 2018, owner of an online store of goods for the home and garden. Communicating with clients, I studied the needs and problems in arranging, renovating houses and cottages, managing household plots, and helped solve them. I share my accumulated experience on the pages of the magazine.

Depending on the additives contained in the core, there are four types of drywall. Today we’ll talk to experts about how to choose the right material for different jobs, when you can save money and when you can’t.

Drywall: types, technical characteristics and prices

Drywall is a three-layer sheet material consisting of two cardboard facing layers that reinforce a core of compressed gypsum.

GCR in the interior can be used both for technical purposes (leveling the curvature of walls, erecting false walls, partitions, flooring) and for decorative purposes (organizing suspended ceiling systems, multi-level wall structures, decorative volumetric elements).

Photo 1 - Volma moisture-resistant plasterboard sheet 1200x3000x12.5mm

GKL itself is a non-flammable material. The only element exposed to flame is the cardboard lining of the sheet. Due to the fact that the flammable cardboard and the heat-resistant core are connected end-to-end, i.e. There is no air cushion between them, cardboard will not burn either - only charring of this layer of material is possible.

IMPORTANT! Any type of gypsum board is not flammable, but do not confuse ordinary heat-resistant gypsum board and fire-resistant gypsum board - a material reinforced with special additives. An ordinary sheet of drywall will begin to deteriorate from prolonged exposure to high temperatures as soon as the water contained in the gypsum (about 17%) finally evaporates.

How to choose drywall?

The choice of gypsum board should be based on its intended use: any type of work in the room will correspond to a certain type.

Selecting the brand and sheet size are secondary tasks.

Criterias of choice:

• type of work;
• sheet thickness and length;
• sheet weight;
• sheet edge type;
• brand/manufacturer;
• material price.

Types of drywall according to GOST 6266-97

IMPORTANT! Each type of gypsum board has its own color according to the standard.

• Standard gypsum board

Does not contain additives, intended for work in rooms where the humidity level does not exceed 70%: used for work on interior partitions, decorative and sound-absorbing structures, suspended ceilings (ceiling is distinguished). The color of the material is gray (less often blue).

You can hide any type of communications behind the ceiling frame for hanging gypsum boards. From the wall you can make a false wall or partition of any type up to 10 m high.

Marking: GKL

Moisture-resistant plasterboard containing hydrophobic and fungicidal additives is suitable for work in wet areas. Waterproof can be used for covering walls, ceilings in kitchens, bathrooms, toilets, used as a base for floors (a special type - floor) and for covering window slopes. The color of the material is green.

IMPORTANT! The water-repellent properties of this type are enhanced by special impregnated cardboard; gypsum boards need to be isolated from moisture one way or another: painted or tiled gypsum boards will feel much better in a damp room.

Marking: GKLV

IMPORTANT! GCR for floors is more often used in the “dry floor” technology: the floor is laid on a prepared base - a frame with filler, then it is secured with self-tapping screws. Quality products can be found at KNAUF. An example of a branded floor gypsum board is heavy-duty Knauf Bodenplatte boards.

Fire-resistant contains a special reinforcing additive - glass fiber, which increases the resistance of gypsum plasterboard to fire and prevents the possibility of fire and destruction of the material under the influence of high temperatures, therefore the heat-resistant type can be used as passive protection against fires.

Fireproof gypsum plasterboard is used in facilities with strict fire safety requirements, as well as in crowded places (stadiums, shopping and entertainment centers, train stations). Color: red.

Marking: GKLO

Moisture-resistant type with increased resistance to open flame. Produced by KNAUF.

Marking: GKLVO

In addition to the main types, there are several more varieties:

• restoration - thinner plasterboard for cladding old structures and wood, it bends easily, due to which it can be used when making shaped elements;
• laminated (vinyl) - a regular sheet of plasterboard of any type, industrially coated with PVC film, due to which the sheets are immediately ready for finishing work upon installation (such a coating does not breathe well due to the film coating);

• reinforced - plasterboard with fiberglass additives;
• acoustic perforated - special soundproofing material for finishing lecture halls, cinema halls, recording studios and other similar premises that require additional sound insulation;

• arched - a thin-layer gypsum sheet, often no more than 6.5 mm in thickness, due to this the material is quite flexible, it is easy to make curved elements from it such as the circumference of an arch, the lining of figured ceiling elements;

IMPORTANT! Drywall, perforated on one side with a special needle roller, also bends well.

• gypsum fiber or gypsum fiber board - the same gypsum board, but without cardboard sheathing, gypsum is reinforced through the use of fluffed cellulose waste paper and technological additives, which make gypsum board a more durable material than gypsum board (instead of plasterboard, prefabricated floor bases and partitions are better made from this material);
• tongue-and-groove slabs - gypsum is additionally fired, which gives the material additional strength (from these slabs you can build interior partitions and begin finishing without preparation).

Drywall sheet size

The standard sheet should be rectangular:

• length - from 2,000 to 4,000 mm;
• width - from 600 to 1,200 mm;
• thickness - from 6.0 to 12.5 mm.

Each application area has its own sheet standards: thin arched gypsum boards are often produced in sizes 1,200/2,500/6 mm or 1,200/3,000/6 mm. A moisture-resistant sheet often has parameters of 1,200/2,500/12.5 mm (less often - with a thickness of 9 mm).

As for the length of the sheet, the step in changing dimensions is 500 mm: 2,000 mm, 2,500 mm, 3,000 mm, etc. A sheet 3 meters long is one of the most popular, because... According to technical recommendations, the walls need to be sewn up to their full length (the height of the ceilings in a typical apartment is 2.5-2.85 m).

The standard sheet width is 1,200 mm.

Drywall thickness

The thickness of gypsum plasterboard used in residential construction ranges from 6.5 mm to 12.5 mm. In this case, the thickness of the sheet varies depending on the purpose of the material.

IMPORTANT! The minimum thickness of gypsum plasterboard of 6 mm is used only in sheets of arched plasterboard to improve the bending of the sheet.

Wall gypsum board with a thickness of 12.5 mm, ceiling - 9.5 mm (sometimes 12.5 mm with a mandatory increase in the frequency of installation of the profile), moisture-resistant and gypsum board - 12.5 mm each.

Drywall weight

When working with a material, it is important to take into account its weight: in accordance with it, fasten the frame elements in one way or another, and select fastening tools.

By generally accepted standards:

1. the weight of 1 m² with a thickness of 6.5 mm is 5 kg;
2. weight 1 m² thickness 9.5 mm − 7.5 kg;
3. weight 1 m² thickness 12.5 mm − 9.5 kg.

Sheet edge type

There are several types of longitudinal sheet edges (the diagram is shown below).

On sale you can find gypsum boards with edges such as PC (VR, KR), PRO, UK (AK), PLC (HRK), KS (VA), ZK (RK), PLUK (HRAK), VARIO, KPOS (gypsum fiber is produced with edges PC and FC).

In home repairs, sheets with beveled edges on the front side of the sheet are most often used - these are edges of the UK and SHTUK types.

IMPORTANT! When cutting slabs, a cut edge inevitably appears, and there is no protective layer of cardboard on the cut edge, so before processing the seams of such sheets, a chamfer is made on the edges with a plane or knife. Next, use the putty mixture, covering the seam with reinforcing tape.

Brand and manufacturer

In terms of price/quality ratio, the German company KNAUF remains the permanent leader, holding up to 70% of the drywall and components market.

Among foreign manufacturers we can highlight the French company Compagnie de Saint-Gobain SA (it owns the trademarks Rigips, Giproc and Nida Gips) and the Scandinavian manufacturer