Plasterboard comes in a variety of types for different applications in a room. Some types are more soundproof whereas others might provide more resistance against fire. Many sheets of plasterboard look alike, so it's good to understand a few differences and know a few tips for how to work with the material. This will ensure you install it correctly and avoid problems with the material over time. Note a few tips about selecting and then working with plasterboard here.

Gypsum

Gypsum board is a bit different than other forms of plasterboard, as gypsum has small water droplets in the material. This is what's often used to create a more fire-resistant surface; this is good for areas in the home such as your garage or kitchen where fire may be more likely. There are also special types of gypsum that work for these areas which will have a paper lining that is attached with a more fire-resistant adhesive for maximum protection against the walls going up in flames.

Gypsum is also good for areas with lots of water and moisture, such as bathrooms and basements. These added water droplets in the gypsum material, along with the silicone used to keep the material together, prevent the pieces from absorbing more water. Avoid using standard plasterboard in these rooms as plasterboard is drier and more likely to absorb water over time.

Wallpapering

The paper lining of plasterboard will hold the adhesive of wallpaper, but it's good to use a sealant over this surface first. This is because that paper lining may become permanently adhered to the wallpaper so that trying to strip it later can mean pulling apart the entire piece of plasterboard. When you add a coat of sealant, this will protect the paper lining of the plasterboard so you don't need to replace the entire piece of plasterboard itself.

Ceiling cracks

If a crack in the ceiling plasterboard is not caused by water damage, it's often caused by the joists to which the plasterboard is attached drying out and moving slightly. You can usually patch over this and then add a few more anchor or connector screws to the plasterboard in order to keep it in place. If the crack is caused by water damage, it's often good to simply replace the piece as it may be too crumbly and damaged under the paper lining to hold its own weight, and it may continue to crack even after you've patched it.

For more tips about working with plasterboard, contact a local plasterboard supplier.