A Closer Look At The Advantages and Disadvantages of Gypsum Board
If something happens to damage your home or its interiors, it’s crucial to get it fixed. It is vital to act quickly too!
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But where do you start?
Are you looking at restoring any residential or commercial damage to your building and don’t know where to start? Not sure what materials you might need to patch up a leaky roof or moldy wall? Have you ever heard of a gypsum board? Wondering what this fancy-sounding board is?
You can find the answers to these questions and more below:
What Is Gypsum Board?
Gypsum is naturally found around the world in large quantities. Commercial quantities of gypsum are found in Pakistan, Iran, Thailand, England, Ireland, Canada, and several others.
It is a sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate and has the chemical formula CaSO4 2H2O (if you want to impress anyone).
This material has a wide variety of functions and applications. Gypsum board, commonly known as plasterboard, drywall, or wallboard, is a gypsum plaster panel sandwiched between two sheets of fiberglass or thick paper.
Gypsum Board Advantages
There is a reason why the gypsum board is one of the most common names among all paneling products. Compared to different paneling materials such as fiberboard, hardwood, and plywood, the gypsum board stands out for its advantages.
Fire Resistance
Due to the non-combustible core and paper facers of gypsum board are more prevalent where fire resistance is required.
The non-combustible core of the board is chemically mixed with water at a rate of 21%. Therefore, the board releases steam when exposed to high heat as the temperature rises. As a result, it is the most widely utilized interior finish where a fire resistance classification is necessary.
Versatility
The primary qualities of gypsum boards, such as performance, availability, simplicity of application, ease of repair, and their versatility in decorative purposes, make them superior to any other surfacing product.
Countless architectural requirements can easily be achieved through the versatility of gypsum board.
Durability
Gypsum boards construct high-quality drywall panels.
Besides being suitable for ceiling applications, they are highly durable and dimensionally stable. The boards are straightforward to decorate and refinish, especially for anyone requiring repairs to your homes or businesses due to any water, fire, mold or natural disaster damage.
Easy Installation
The installation process of these wallboards or drywalls is far faster and easier than other materials like hardwood or fiberboard.
As a lightweight material, not much workforce is required to handle this product. Nor is any heavy-duty tool needed to cut through the material; a simple knife or hand saw could do the job.
Low Cost
The price is one of the reasons why this is a popular choice for many. It’s a low-cost building material that can build homes quickly and efficiently. That speed and low cost would benefit those looking for cost-effective solutions to reduce their spending.
It is a good fire-resistant wall surface and ceiling covering material that is reasonably inexpensive compared to other products. The total cost of installation/labor for the entire construction system is relatively low, making this system more appealing.
Gypsum Board Disadvantages
Just as there are upsides to a product, there certainly are drawbacks to any product.
Water Damage
Gypsum plaster is unsuitable for exterior walls due to its susceptibility to moisture, especially continuous moisture exposure. Continually moist spaces, such as bathrooms, toilets, washrooms, and kitchens, would be suboptimal for this material.
Water damage may cause the panels to fall apart and mold to grow. There are, however, the more expensive fiberglass boards that are more resistant to water damage.
Not as Durable
Gypsum boards are not suitable for installation on curved surfaces. Bends will damage the structural integrity and cause cracks.
Wallboards may not be as long-lasting, especially in high-traffic locations. It is possible to dent them by heavy impact.
Difficult to recycle
If recycling is important to you, you should know that drywalls are challenging to recycle and often end up in landfills after the demolition of a building.
FAQs
Is Gypsum Board Bad for Health?
The short answer is No.
Drywall is not dangerous. There are no known adverse long-term medical effects from ingesting gypsum.
Gypsum and silica dust could be generated during drywall installation. While handling drywall, it is advisable to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
Plaster powder/dust can potentially irritate eyes, skin, or respiratory systems. If any adverse reactions occur, they should be short-term. Rinse thoroughly with water and wash off. Consult your physician if in doubt.
Is Gypsum Board Waterproof?
Yes, the boards are waterproof to a certain level.
If exposed to prolonged durations of moisture, regular boards can allow water to seep into the board and cause water damage. Panels with fiberglass are more water-resistant.
Conclusion
Now that you are an expert on everything gypsum board, you’ll be ready to use it for your next construction project!
Are you looking for residential & commercial restoration & repair services to work on your property? All Dry USA has years of experience protecting homes and keeping the elements at bay!
We can handle any residential or commercial paneling project, no matter how big or small.
Contact All Dry USA today!
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With Ben’s knowledge, and visionary leadership, All Dry USA has expanded into a national, full-service property damage restoration company with multiple locations across the United States. Ben holds numerous specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction.
