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Installing and Fixing Plasterboard Lining

When fixing plasterboard there are a few tools you will need to get the job done.

Basic tools list

• Hand saw
• Hammer
• A tape measure
• A straight edge
• Pencil
• Tin snips
• Knife
• Small to medium step ladder
• Paint scraper (to put on stud adhesive)
• Broad knife

Preferred Tool list: includes all tools above

• Automatic screw gun
• Plasterboard sheet lifter
• Hand staple gun

Note:

This tools list is only to fix the plasterboard to the timber studs. The Basic tool list only allows for the sheets to be fixed with nails. However an automatic screw gun for plasterboard can be hired and will make fixing the plasterboard so much easier. There are two main types of plasterboard used in the home. Normal wall sheets are 10mm thick with a recessed edge and ceiling sheets which are reinforced and have a recessed edge. The tool list above will also help you install cornice and plaster the joins.

Ceiling sheets:

10mm thick sheets are reinforced or 13mm thick sheets are also commonly used for extra strength. The 10mm ceiling sheets are guarantee for battens or ceiling joists up to 600mm spacing. Greater spacing than 600mm and the ceiling sheets will bow thus extra battens will have to be added. Ceiling sheets can be used on walls however normal wall sheets cannot be used on ceilings as they will bow down. Large ceiling sheets are best lifted to the ceiling battens with a plasterboard lifter and these can purchased or hired. When installing the ceiling sheets stagger the joints for the best finish.

Wall sheets:

10mm thick sheets are also installed with staggered joints. These are mainly installed horizontally and have a recessed edge so that joining is easier.

Curved walls and ceilings:

Curved walls and ceilings have 6mm flexi plasterboard sheets as these are manufactured to bend.

Other types of Plasterboard:

Water resistant, Fire rated, Sound proofing, and impact resistant. The names of these will vary from brand to brand however the uses are the same.

Install wall sheets:

For 2400mm high walls you will need 2 1200mm 10mm plasterboard sheets up to 6 metres in length. For example: if you wall is 3 metres long simply cut your plasterboard to length if required. The glue should then be put onto the studs at approximately 300mm spacing from floor to ceiling on each stud. Install the bottom sheet first and screw every 600mm (edges and middle). Then install the top sheet by resting it on top of the bottom one and screw it off ready to plaster the joins. If your room is longer than your plasterboard sheets you will have vertical joins. Make sure that all vertical joins are staggered.

Install Ceiling sheets:

For large sheets use a plasterboard lifter. Cut your plasterboard to size and put the stud glue on your ceiling joists or battens. Put the plasterboard on the sheet lifter and lift into place and screw off. Make sure that your sheet end joins are staggered for the best finish.