Make Light Work of Plasterboard Jointing
Plasterboard jointing is one of those everyday tasks that needs to be easy and quick to complete, which is entirely possible with the right materials.
Here, Stacey Booth, Head of Marketing & Portfolio at Okarno, looks at the some of the best approaches.
Understanding Plasterboard Jointing
When it comes to plasterboard jointing, the quality of the finish largely depends on the materials used and the techniques applied. The jointing process can be divided into three stages: taping, filling, and finishing.
An important aspect to consider when choosing a joint filling product is the working time, as they do vary by product. Those with longer working times are great if you want to mix a larger batch for a bigger project, but for smaller jobs, a reduced working time might be preferable to prevent time being wasted on-site waiting for the product to dry before applying a second coat.
The Gyproc EasiFill products clearly state their working time in their name; for example, EasiFill 20 has a 20-minute working time, whereas EasiFill 60 has a 60-minute working time, and the intended use for the product will be stated on the packaging and in published installation guides available on the manufacturer’s website.
For added convenience, ready-mixed products are also available, which saves time when mixing and reduces waste by preventing mixing errors and scrapping any unused product. Ready-mixed products come in resealable tubs, so you can use what you need, reseal, and save for the next job. The Gyproc ProMix Lite is a ready-mixed jointing compound for all stages of filling and tape bedding. This versatile mixture is available in 20kg tubs and is a great alternative to powder products, especially if gaining access to water on-site is an issue.
Combined Joint Filling and Finishing
Traditionally, jointing and filling would have been a three-stage process, but products such as Gyproc EasiFill 60 and Gyproc ProMix Lite can be used for both bulk filling and finishing for speed and convenience. These products combine setting and air-drying, which avoids having to use more than one jointing compound.
Another consideration is making sure you select a decent quality jointing tape. There are two types of jointing tape: paper and fibreglass mesh, and which to use is often a matter of preference and experience.
In conclusion, achieving a flawless, professional finish starts long before the first coat is applied. Selecting the right jointing compounds and tapes, combined with thorough surface preparation, is essential to ensuring speed, efficiency, and superior results on the job. With plasterboard growing in popularity across the construction industry, selecting suitable products and methods has never been more critical to delivering consistent, high-quality outcomes.
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