Gypsum board, also known as drywall or plasterboard, is an interior building material used in the construction or repair of interior walls of residential and commercial buildings. It is produced in large rectangular sheets which are used in conjunction with joint compound and tape to form a durable, fire-resistant interior wall surface. Gypsum board provides an economical and effective surface for protecting building structures while also allowing for easy installation of electrical wires, plumbing, and other built-in components.
Composition and Manufacturing of Gypsum Board
Gypsum Board is composed of a dense core made primarily from gypsum mixed with fiberglass mesh encased in thick, heavy paper on the face side and back side. The gypsum used is a naturally occurring soft sulfate mineral that is initially mined and then heated to remove water and produce a powdery calcium sulfate hemihydrate. This powder is then mixed with water, fiberglass, and various additives to form slurry which is sandwiched between the facing papers and run through giant kilns where the slurry sets into a semi-rigid core material. The boards are cut to standardized sizes and are ready for installation upon completion of the manufacturing process.
Advantages over Traditional Plaster Walls
Compared to traditional plaster walls, gypsum board offers several key benefits that have led to its widespread adoption in construction. It allows for a much faster installation process since each pre-cut board is hung vertically on the wall frame rather than requiring days of setting time like plaster. Gypsum board is also lighter in weight which eases transportation and handling. The gypsum core material sets harder than plaster for better durability while still allowing for easy repairs when necessary. It provides inherent fire resistance properties and holds up well in high moisture conditions. Unlike plaster, gypsum board does not degrade over time from water exposure or cracking.
Usage in Commercial Construction Projects
Gypsum board has become the standard for interior wall and ceiling construction in most commercial buildings due to its cost-effectiveness, strength, and versatility. Some common applications of drywall in commercial construction include:
- Office Buildings - Gypsum board enables rapid interior wall systems for division of office spaces, drop ceilings, and finishing of support areas. Its smooth, paintable surface looks professional.
- Retail Stores - The floor plans of retail spaces are constantly changing based on business needs. Drywall allows for simple alterations or additions of interior walls.
- Hotels - Gypsum board improves the fire resistance of guest room walls and corridor separations. Its durability also stands up well to heavy guest traffic.
- Schools and Hospitals - Fire codes strictly regulate combustibility of interior finishes in these occupancies. Non-combustible drywall satisfies regulatory concerns while providing resilient, low-maintenance wall and ceiling surfaces.
- Warehouses and Factories - Large, uninterrupted wall and ceiling areas in industrial buildings can be quickly erected using pre-cut gypsum panels. Hollow-core metal stud framing is often used for strength.
Advantages in Residential Construction
While plaster historically dominated interior walls of homes, gypsum board has become equally or even more common due to various practical advantages. Drywall installation is faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective for homebuilders compared to the plastering trade. Some key pluses of gypsum board usage in houses and apartments include:
- Ease of Handling - Large light weight boards are simpler to carry and install versus heavy plaster. Fewer laborers are needed.
- Rapid Enclosure - A home's interior can be fully enclosed using drywall much sooner after framing to allow for mechanical, electrical and insulation work.
- Repairability - Minor holes or dings in gypsum board walls can be easily fixed using joint compound rather than requiring replastering.
- Customization - Altering interior wall layouts is simple with drywall compared to existing plaster. Doors, windows or plumbing fixtures can be relocated or added.
- Durability - Gypsum board performs well in bathrooms or areas of impact resilience where moisture resistance and dent/crackproofing are important.
Technical Specifications and Standards
Manufacturers produce gypsum board in standardized thicknesses ranging from 1/2 inch to 1 inch depending on the application and expected load bearing needs. Paper faced gypsum panels are designated under ASTM C1396 specifications. Common panel sizes include 4 feet wide by 8 feet, 4 feet wide by 9 feet, 4 feet wide by 10 feet, and 4 feet wide by 12 feet in length. Sheets are identified with identification stencils indicating their fire rating. Standards organizations like UL publish listings of rated gypsum wallboard assemblies for fire protection construction.
Gypsum board has come to dominate interior wall and ceiling surfaces in virtually all construction projects. Its ease of installation, fire resistance, durability, and repairability make it an economical choice versus traditional plaster. As partitioning demands of buildings evolve, gypsum panel products remain on the leading edge of delivering reliable, custom commercial and residential interior finishes.
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As per a detailed analysis by Market Research Future (MRFR), the global drywall & gypsum board market is predicted to register a CAGR of 5.95% during the forecast period (2017-2023).
Often termed as wallboard, drywall, or plasterboard, gypsum boards offer versatility, sound control, convenience, quality, and the presence of mom-combustible core differentiates them from hardboard, plywood, and fiberboard.Market Potential and PitfallsThe drywall & gypsum board market is gradually stealing the limelight due to the surging growth in restructuring and remodeling of the homes.
The surging focus on environmentally sustainable green building construction materials which help to reduce the overhead expenditure is likely to promote the market’s growth during the assessment period.
Governments across the regions are developing and promoting the construction sector and bringing in regulations and reforms to enhance the real estate market and infrastructure growth.
With the booming restructuring and remodeling of homes, the market is likely to gain impetus in the long run.Request for Free Sample Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/5280On the contrary, the fluctuating prices of the raw materials are likely to restrict the growth of the market during the review period.
Among these, the wallboard segment commands the largest market share and is expected to retain its position in the long run.
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