Selecting the right plasterboard is vital when building or renovating, impacting everything from sound levels and moisture control to fire safety and long term durability. In areas like Seaforth, Balgowlah, and St Ives, where coastal weather, bushfire zones, and diverse property styles play a role, it’s crucial to choose the right plasterboard for each specific application.
Room Specific Selections
When choosing plasterboard, consider each room’s unique needs. Whether you’re designing a quiet study, a high traffic hallway, a luxury hotel suite, or a busy commercial office, different plasterboard types work better for different environments. It’s not a one size fits all decision.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
For most living areas and bedrooms, standard 10mm plasterboard is lightweight, cost effective, and easy to install. However, in luxury homes, multi-residential buildings, or upscale hotels, upgrading to 13mm acoustic plasterboard enhances soundproofing. This reduces noise transfer, creating more privacy and a peaceful environment, particularly in open plan spaces or areas with shared walls.
Media Rooms, Studies, and Workspaces
High-density acoustic plasterboard is ideal for rooms where quiet is key—such as media rooms, home offices, or commercial workspaces. These thicker, denser boards block external noise, helping maintain a quiet environment. This is especially beneficial in open plan offices, commercial buildings, and luxury homes. In hotels or multi-unit buildings, soundproofing significantly improves the guest or resident experience.
Bathrooms, Kitchens, and Laundries
Moisture-resistant plasterboard is a must for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries. These spaces experience humidity, steam, and water splashes that can damage standard plasterboard. Moisture resistant plasterboard resists water and prevents mould growth, ensuring long lasting durability. This is vital for high end homes, hotels, and commercial kitchens where hygiene and longevity.
Ceilings
Thicker 13mm plasterboard is recommended for ceilings, particularly in larger or open plan areas, common in luxury homes and commercial spaces. It helps prevent sagging and ensures a more stable, durable finish. For smaller rooms, 10mm plasterboard may suffice, but 13mm offers better strength for multi-storey homes and commercial properties. It also improves soundproofing and insulation, enhancing comfort in both residential and commercial settings.
Garages and Shared Walls
Garages, shared walls, and areas near fireplaces or cooktops require fire-rated plasterboard. These boards are designed to slow fire spread, meeting stringent safety standards. In bushfire prone areas like St Ives, or multi-unit projects such as hotels or commercial buildings, 13mm fire-rated plasterboard is essential for protection in high risk zones.
Long Term Performance Considerations
When choosing plasterboard, it’s important to think about its long-term performance, as it impacts both the aesthetics and operational costs of your space.
Durability
Thicker 13mm plasterboard is stronger and more resistant to damage, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like commercial spaces or busy hallways in luxury homes. While 10mm works well in many residential areas, thicker boards are better for spaces with more wear and tear.
Thermal Efficiency
Insulated plasterboard, which incorporates a foam layer, helps improve heat retention. This is beneficial for homes and commercial spaces focused on energy efficiency. While plasterboard isn’t the main insulation source, this option boosts overall thermal performance.
Installation
Lighter 10mm plasterboard is easier to handle and better for DIY projects or quick jobs. However, for areas that need more performance, such as moisture-prone or fire-rated zones, thicker boards are worth the extra installation effort.
Cost
While standard 10mm plasterboard is more affordable, investing in thicker, specialised plasterboard can save you money in the long run. For high-end homes, hotels, or commercial spaces, it’s worth the upfront investment to ensure long-term durability and avoid costly repairs.
Need Help Deciding?
Choosing the right plasterboard doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about understanding the specific conditions your space will face. What works in a bedroom won’t be enough for a high traffic hallway, a wet bathroom, or a luxury hotel suite.
At Seamless Interiors, we help property owners and builders across the Northern Beaches and North Shore select the best plasterboard for their needs. Whether you need expert advice, quality materials, or professional installation, we’re here to help with your project.
