In building design, plasterboard is used to create walls and ceilings. It is easy to install and leaves a smooth surface that can be painted or wallpapered, and it comes in a range of thicknesses and ratings. One popular type of plasterboard is sound block plasterboard, which is made with a higher-density centre, and it has strong paper liners to block sound. This plasterboard offers a greater level of sound insulation when it is needed.
What Is Sound Block Plasterboard?
There are different types of plasterboard, including those that offer sound insulation. British Gypsum Tapered edge Soundbloc Plasterboard is one type that is made with a high density core that provides enhanced sound insulation performance. It is primarily used in British Gypsum wall lining and partition systems where greater sound insulation is needed.
This plasterboard is made with an aerated gypsum core that is encased in and firmly bonded to strong paper liners. It can be used to dry line internal surfaces, and it is certified with a rating of “Very Good.” It is recognisable because it has pale blue face paper and brown reverse side paper, and it comes with a tapered edge.
Understanding the Tapered Edge
With plasterboard that has a tapered edge, the edges are slimmer than the body of the board. This allows builders to fill in the sides where the edges taper with drywall tape and drywall compound to create a smooth joint free of seams. This type of board is an excellent choice for jointing and skimming. These boards offer a sturdy, even base to plaster over, and they render the joints invisible under paint or offer a sounder background for tiling.
Using Sound Block Plasterboard
Sound block plasterboard has one side that has blue paper, while the other is brown. When builders install it, the blue face should face out, while the brown face is internal. The boards should be lightly butted together. It can be easily cut by scoring it with a sharp knife and snapping it over a straight edge, or some builders use a plasterboard saw. It is easier to cut out any sections prior to installation, such as socket or switch box cut outs. In addition, it is recommended to use personal protective equipment and have the proper training prior to installation. Once installed, this plasterboard will offer the sound insulation needed in rooms that require additional privacy. It complies with EN 520-Type D and has thermal conductivity of 0.25 W/mK.