How to Fit Plasterboard

Plasterboard is a popular choice, thanks to its speed and relatively straightforward installation.­ One of the key things to remember when tackling this job is to hang your plasterboard horizontally rather than vertically. Any further queries, contact us on 01942 720777 or on sales@­nwtt.­co.­uk

What you’ll need
•Plasterboard •Tape Measure •Pencil •Stanley knife •Drill driver or screw gun •Spirit level •Drywall screws •Surform •Handsaw

Step 1:
Positioning the boards
As a rule, each board should be positioned so that its edges are the centre of the uprights. However, at opening and at adjoining walls the boards must fit tightly up to the edges.

Step 2:
Measure and cut plasterboard
Work from your door opening to the furthest wall. When measuring for a cut board, it is important to make sure you measure from the edge of a stud to the centre of the noggin. With the board flat on the ground, use a tape measure and mark where you need to cut.

Step 3:
Score the plasterboard
take a straight edge and score marks down the length where you will be cutting using a Stanley Knife. Once you have scored the board stand it up and give it a tap on the back to start the split.

Step 4:
Get a clean edge on plasterboard
Fold the split edge in on itself, then cut down the remaining paper with your Stanley Knife. Once this is done you should have a nice clean cut. If your cut is slightly overlength, use a plaster rasp to trim the board to size.

Step 5:
Screw the plasterboard
Line the board up with the studwork, ensuring it is in the correct position. Drive a couple of screws into the edges of the board where you can see a noggin or upright – but only enough to hold the board in place

Step 6:
Take your straight edge and mark lines down and across your board at the centre of the studs and noggins. This will help you to secure the plasterboard without missing the timber behind

Step 7:
Screw plasterboard at regular intervals
Place screws at about 100-200mm gaps along the lines you drew in step 6. Drive them in just enough so they break the surface of the paper. Don’t go too far, as this will crush the plaster and prevent a secure fix

Step 8:
Cut end boards to length
Your end boards are likely to need cutting to length. Measure from the furthest edge to the centre of the noggin to ensure a tight fit, then mark up, score and split the board as described in steps 2–3

Step 9:
Keep factory edges of plasterboard together
Fit the remaining boards as described in steps 5–7. When placing end boards, try to keep the factory edges together – this will minimise any need for filling in the next stage of the project

Step 10:
Cut plasterboard in situ
If a board extends into an opening, it’s best to cut it in situ. Use the studwork as a guide to make the horizontal saw cut, before scoring and splitting the board vertically. Finish edges with a surform