Using Plasterboard Partitions in Commercial FITOUT

When it comes to commercial office fitouts, it's important to understand the role plasterboard partitions play in both the function and design of your office. These types of partitions or walls are permanent structures made up of layers of fibreboard that is bonded to gypsum plaster board.

Why Plasterboard Walls?

Plasterboard walls also known as partitions can help you create a fresher working environment in an otherwise old, outdated space. They are used to hide electrical wiring, plumbing, and even minor design flaws. What makes plasterboard partitions a popular choice in commercial office fitouts is their flexibility. Depending on what you need for your particular space, plasterboard partitions offer a variety of solutions to help you achieve the right look and feel.

Let's take a look at a few real world examples.

Water Resistant

If your fit out includes areas where water is present like bathrooms, laundry areas or kitchens you'll want to go with plasterboard partitions that are water resistant to prevent water damage. Water resistant plasterboard walls are designed with a low absorption core which can be a major factor in preventing water wicking. That means you could significantly lower the possibility of severe structural damage to your interior walls.

Fire Resistant

For your safety and the safety of others, fire resistant plasterboard partitions are often required to be installed in certain situations.

Your office fitout contractor will be guided by the local council or your architect (if you choose to engage one) as to what the requirements are with regards to fire rated walls and other fixtures for your office.

Sound Proofing (Acoustics)

In situations where sound transmission needs to be contained, for instance in studios or for privacy, plasterboard partitions can be reinforced to provide a solid layer of insulation to keep unwanted noise under control.

To achieve this effect several layers of plasterboard must be added. The Weighted Sound Reduction Index rating determines how well a plasterboard wall keeps sounds like music, speech and other noises to a minimum.

Fibre Glass

Occasionally, when specified by the architect, plasterboard partitions or walls reinforced with fibre glass particles are used instead of the standard paper lining described above. These materials allow the partitions to be used in areas of your fitout that have rounded or curved designs.

Aesthetics

These partitions/walls are also versatile in terms of look. You're not limited when it comes to colours as they can be painted in any colour combination you choose.

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Basic Plasterboard Installation Tips

Although putting up plasterboard sheets is best left to the professionals, we thought it may be of interest to run you through the basic steps of what’s involved.

The following steps are very general and should only be used as guide to give you an idea of some of the work involved in installing plasterboard partitions.

• Step 1

Before you begin, make sure you're up on building code standards and requirements!

You must also insure that you choose the right kind of plasterboard for the room. For example, if it's an area where moisture is likely to be an ongoing issue, go with water resistant plasterboard.

• Step 2

You're going to lay the partition against the studs in the wall but you'll have to get rid of any old plasterboard first.

• Step 3

Take time to check for any moisture in the walls or any other damage. If everything checks out proceed with the installation. Check the insulation for tears and repair it with Kraft tape.

• Step 4

Measuring from the corner make sure your plasterboard end lands against the joist or strapping piece. A T-square will come handy when making measurements.

• Step 5

Get a glue gun and place the glue down the joist or strapping.

• Step 6

You can now attach the plasterboard. Next take 5 or 6 screws and drill them across the center of the plasterboard you're working with all the way through until you hit the strapping or joist.

• Step 7

Installing plasterboard sheets isn't too difficult if you're comfortable working with the tools needed and have the patience to spend time measuring, have great attention to detail and aren’t afraid of some heavy lifting.

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