Fire plasterboard is one of several options when it comes to remodelling or constructing a property. It offers enhanced fire protection compared to other forms of plasterboard but may not be necessary for every building and residence.
Here is a closer look at the features and benefits of fire-rated plasterboard.
What Is Fire-Rated Plasterboard?
Plasterboard is often called drywall, gypsum board, or gyprock. It is the main choice for creating interior surfaces, including walls and ceilings. Drywall includes a core of gypsum and other materials with layers of thick, compressed paper on both sides. It has a smooth finish and comes in different thicknesses.
Fire-rated plasterboard is simply a type of plasterboard designed to slow the spread of fire. Standard fire-rated plasterboard has a thickness of 12.5 mm or 15 mm. Along with the thickness, the fire protection comes from the density of the board. The material is denser, which increases its fire resistance.
It may also include pink paper on the outside instead of white to differentiate between fireproof and regular variations.
Some of the advantages of fire-rated gypsum board include:
- Enhanced fire protection
- Limited thermal conductivity
- Superior sound dampening
The main reason to use fire-rated drywall is for extra fire protection. It can take about 30 minutes for a fire to burn through regular drywall, but an hour or longer to burn through fireproof drywall.
Fire-rated options also have limited thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivity refers to the ability of an object to transmit heat. Objects with low thermal conductivity have slower heat transmission, which can improve heating and cooling.
The density of the fire-rated gypsum board also helps dampen sound. Using fire plasterboards for walls may help block more sound compared to using regular plasterboard.
Where Can You Use Fireproof Plasterboard?
Fireproof plasterboards are suitable for use anywhere you would use plasterboard, including walls and ceilings. It also costs a little more compared to regular plasterboard.
Fire-rated plasterboards are often used in the walls and ceilings of commercial properties, such as office buildings and shopping centres.
Fire-rated drywall is also popular in low-rise housing and garage but is less common in other types of residential properties. It is typically used only where building codes require it, such as the walls separating attached garages from houses.
Yet, using fireproof drywall offers several advantages for all types of structures, including residential properties. Along with slowing the spread of fire, fire-rated plasterboards help prevent heat transmission. It also helps dampen sound, creating a quieter environment inside.
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