Gyprock plasterboard is a strong building material that consists of a gypsum core with a tough paper exterior. It is usually flush against joints and painted to give a smooth wall or ceiling. All Gyprock boards go through a manufacturing process that meets the standards set by AS/NZS 2588 Gypsum Plasterboard and come with a “Manufactured for Life” warranty.
Despite their main features, installers and users must ensure this material is properly maintained to ensure longevity and structural integrity. Here are some tips for caring for plasterboard like pro plasterers!
Tips for Addressing Mould and Mildew
Mould and mildew are two different types of fungi that can grow in your home. The only similarity is that they cause allergic and respiratory problems for those who breathe them in.
These fungi can be a problem in homes or buildings with poor ventilation. Improving ventilation, whether through natural means, mechanical means, or a combination of the two, can help reduce the chances of these problems occurring. If mould is already present, it is important to remove it and ensure that spores cannot travel through the air and cause new mould growth.
Tips for Cleaning
Marks made by light can be removed using a damp cloth, and the area should be dried completely.
Removing tough stains from plasterboard can be tricky. You don’t want to scrub or press too hard, as this could damage the surface. Instead, try using a specialty cleaner like sugar soap.
Tips for Fire and Smoke Damage
If your plasterboard has been damaged by smoke or fire, it’s best to replace it. The heat from the fire can affect the plasterboard’s performance. Never retain and paint over fire-damaged plasterboard. Though it’ll look brand-new, the covered-up plasterboard will suffer wear and tear much faster than other areas in your home.
Tips for Moisture Damage
Moisture damage can be caused by exposure to condensation and humidity, leading to mould and mildew growth. This often happens in areas with poor ventilation, such as bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens.
If your Gyprock plasterboard gets wet, even pro plasterers will advise it’s best to replace it. The paper backing can weaken if it gets wet, which means the board won’t hold up as well and could fall. This applies to major water or moisture damage.
For little exposure or damage due to moisture, dry the plasterboard off and see if there’s any damage. If there’s no damage, you can keep using it and decorate it however you want.
Any cracks or damage that could let water enter the wall space in areas with tiles must be repaired immediately by filling and repainting the area or by replacing tiles, fixing the mortar between them, or sealing them.
Tips for Impact Damage
For minor incidents, meaning that only the paper surface has been scratched or dented, you can sand the area lightly and patch it with a Gyprock topping compound. After that, paint the area according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
For major incidents, meaning there is a hole in the plasterboard or the paper is damaged to the point where the core is exposed, the damaged section must be replaced.
Need Help? Call We Plaster & Recruit Now
Can’t handle these contracting tasks yourself? Call We Plaster & Recruit today! We hire and provide the best plasterers in the Gold Coast to maintain or replace damaged plasterboard, so your house looks good as new. Find plasterers near you by visiting https://weplasterandrecruit.com.au/service/gyprock/!