Plasterboard is a material widely used today in construction work due to its ease of installation and low cost. However, despite presenting these and other positive characteristics, in the long term it can cause problems that require its replacement. That is why we share with you today a Practical guide to removing and renovating plasterboard In your home.
Whether because we need to carry out some installation or because the plasterboard has deteriorated, we may have to remove and replace the plasterboard on one or more walls and ceilings. And although having a professional to remove it is advisable, it is a task that with certain tools and knowledge you could do it yourself. Find out how to do it correctly.
What is plasterboard?
Pladur is a Spanish trademark that is nevertheless used as a common term to refer to laminated plasterboards widely used in interior construction. These boards are composed of a plaster core and two layers of cardboard, sandwich-like, its main components being gypsum and cellulose.
La ability to adapt to different applications, from the construction of partitions to wall cladding or furniture manufacturing, makes this material one of the most versatile. But it also stands out for its easy handling and installation and for its acoustic and thermal insulation properties that contribute to the comfort of a home.
How to remove plasterboard
To remove and renew the plasterboard on a wall or ceiling, it is important to take into account several factors to avoid damaging structures and electrical installations or pipes that could be hidden behind it. And although screwed to metal profiles, removing them is not usually as simple as placing them. To do so you must take the following precautions:
- Protect the soil and furniture near the work area with plastic or fabric to avoid damage.
- Work with a mask and protective glasses, as their disposal can generate a lot of dust and debris and it is important to take precautions to avoid inhaling harmful particles.
- Work smart to Identify whether the wall or ceiling has electrical installations or pipes that could be affected during the removal process.
- In case the structure presents mold or mildew, consult a professional to avoid health risks.
- In case of detecting structural problems During the removal of plasterboard, stop the work and contact a professional to evaluate it.
All precautions taken and the dangers known Remove the plasterboard panels with great care using cutting tools. These will be screwed to the metal profiles, however, removing the screws will be almost impossible as they will be hidden behind putty and paint. Do you also need to remove the profiles? You can remove them with an electric screwdriver for speed.
How to install new plasterboard
Have you been able to remove the plasterboard on your own? Have you preferred to hire a professional when you detected some problems? Regardless of who removed the plasterboard, the time comes to place new plates to replace it.
It is a project that you can do on your own, however, there are situations where it is It is advisable to seek professional helpIf you need to integrate electrical or plumbing systems, install special acoustic or thermal insulation, or are unsure whether you will comply with building regulations, consult a company specialising in this to achieve good results.
Materials
Have you decided to do it on your own? Then you can turn to specialized stores in renovations to buy all the materials necessary. The plasterboard panels, profiles and other accessories and tools that you may need are the following:
- Plates of plasterboard of the appropriate type for your project
- Screws for plasterboard.
- Joint tape.
- Joint paste.
- Primer and paint.
- Drill and electric screwdriver.
- Drywall saw or cutter.
- Level.
- Spatulas.
- Electric sander or sandpaper.
- Personal protective equipment: gloves, glasses and mask.
Step by step to install plasterboard
Assuming you have not had to install new profiles or if you have, it has been a simple replacement of the old ones with the new ones, installing the plasterboard will be relatively easy for you. To do so you will only have to follow the following steps:
- Measure the height and width required for each plate and mark the cutting lines with a pencil.
- Make a shallow cut in the cardboard with the cutter and then flex the plate along the cut to break the plaster.
- Place the first plate on the metal frame making sure it is well aligned and fixed with plasterboard screws every 25 centimeters. Don't force them too much so as not to break the cardboard.
- Place the second plate taking into account that The board should be minimal insert the plates and repeat the process until finished.
- Once all the plates are in place, Use joint tape to cover the joints and the screws.
- Then using a small spatula apply a thin layer of paste on the tape and wait for it to dry.
- Apply a second coat of paste to level the surface and once dry, sand the surface where it has been applied to make it smooth.
- To seal the plasterboard and make the paint adhere better, apply primer.
- Last Paint the desired color using a suitable paint.
As you can see from this practical guide to removing and renovating plasterboard in your home, doing so requires certain skills and time. If you are unsure or complications arise, do not hesitate to contact a professional. The safety of your home is at stake!