1. Introduction
Gypsum is a lightweight, dimensionally stable board system used for ceilings, dry partitions, linings and decorative features. It’s non-structural, easy to install, and provides fire & acoustic options with the right board type and assembly.
Conix quick selector
- Office partition (STC ≥ 45): 2 × 12.5 mm gypsum each side + 50 mm studs + 50 mm mineral wool, sealed perimeters
- Fire-rated shaft (60/120 min): 2 × 15 mm fireboard each side, tested assembly, fire-stopping at penetrations
- Suspended ceiling: GI exposed grid + 12.5 mm board, deflection L/360, acoustic infill where required
Gypsum is a lightweight, dimensionally stable board system used for ceilings, dry partitions, linings and decorative features. It’s non-structural, easy to install, and provides fire and acoustic options with the right board type and assembly.
2. Main gypsum product types
- Standard gypsum board (GKB) — general purpose boards for dry interiors.
- Moisture-resistant (Green/MR) gypsum board — used in bathrooms, kitchens (limited exposure).
- Fire-rated gypsum board (Type F / WR) — gypsum with glass fiber or additives; used for fire-rated enclosures.
- Sound-rated or acoustic boards — denser boards or assemblies with acoustic layers.
- Moisture and mold-resistant specialty boards — for humid environments (verify with supplier).
3. Framing and suspension systems
- GI studs and channels (studded partitions): typically 50 or 75 mm studs with double channels.
- Ceiling grid systems: exposed or concealed T-bar systems (metal grid).
- Screw fixings and jointing: recommended fastener spacing (edge and field), jointing compound, tape.
4. Performance parameters
- Board thickness: 9 mm, 12.5 mm, 15 mm common.
- Fire rating: 30, 60, 90, 120 minute assemblies depend on board and layers.
- Acoustic STC: depends on stud spacing, insulation and board layers (e.g., STC 45–55 for partition assemblies).
- Deflection limits: ceilings typically L/360; check manufacturer for long spans.
5. Typical assemblies (examples)
- Office partition STC 45: Double 12.5 mm gypsum each side + 50 mm stud + mineral wool 50 mm.
- Fire-rated shaft: 2 × 15 mm fireboard each side + special framing + fire seals and intumescent tapes.
- Standard suspended ceiling: GI perimeter channel + main runners + cross tees + 12.5 mm board; acoustic infill if required.
6. Application guidance and installation best practices
- Stagger joints; offset every successive board layer.
- Leave control joints for long runs or temperature swings.
- Install services before closing cavities; coordinate MEP.
- Seal openings and penetrations with fire-stopping systems where required.
7. Common failures and remedies
- Ceiling sagging → spans too wide or moisture ingress; reduce span, add suspension points, use MR boards
- Joint cracking → poor taping or movement; use proper jointing system and movement joints
- Mold/efflorescence → persistent moisture; fix source, switch to MR/special boards, improve ventilation
- Fire rating compromised → unsealed penetrations or wrong board layering; reinstate tested assembly and fire-stops
- Board sagging in ceilings — insufficient support or moisture. Remedy: use MR boards or reduce span; add suspension points.
- Cracking at joints — improper taping or movement. Remedy: use appropriate jointing compound, tape, and movement joints.
- Mold or efflorescence — high ambient moisture. Remedy: find moisture sources, use MR boards or alternate materials in wet environments.
8. QA / QC checklist
- Check board batch and MTCs.
- Frame straightness and plumb check before boarding.
- Screw pattern and embedment as per manufacturer.
- Jointing sequence and reinforcement verification.
- Fire seals and intumescent tapes verification (where required).
9. Sample BOQ lines
- “Supply and fix 12.5 mm gypsum board on GI metal studs at 600 mm centre to centre including jointing and finishing — m².”
- “Provide exposed grid suspended ceiling system with 12.5 mm boards and acoustic infill — m².”
10. Standards and references
- IS 2095 — Gypsum boards and related standards (India)
- ASTM C840 — Application of gypsum boards
- EN 520 — Gypsum board types (Europe)
- Fire testing: BS 476 / EN 13501 series / local fire code
Disclaimer
Conix is an industry initiative & a neutral resource, compiled from industry references and best practices. It is not brand-specific. Always cross-check with project requirements and local codes before finalizing specifications.