Insulated Plasterboard Advantages And Disadvantages

Insulated Plasterboard Advantages And Disadvantages

Insulated plasterboard, also known as thermal insulated plasterboard, is a building material that combines insulation and plasterboard in one product. It consists of a standard drywall plasterboard or gypsum board bonded to a sheet of insulating material, such as expanded polystyrene insulation, high-density phenolic foam, or rigid polyisocyanurate foam.

Insulated plasterboard enhances a building’s thermal performance, reducing heating bills and improving energy efficiency. It is a space-saving board that can be installed quickly and easily, allowing for insulation and dry lining in one single application.

Insulated plasterboard offers a two-in-one solution by combining insulation and plasterboard, providing several advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

• Thermal Performance: Insulated plasterboard offers excellent thermal performance, contributing to significant energy savings by keeping warm air inside during winter and blocking excessive heat in the summer.
• Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness: It provides a more convenient and possibly more cost-effective solution to line internal walls, as it combines insulation boards directly adhered to plasterboard, saving time and labor costs.
• Space-Saving: It is a space-saving board that consists of a PIR foam core, which can adhere using a thin form of thermal insulation.
• Quick Installation: Installing insulated plasterboard is often quicker than the process of fitting separate insulation material and standard plasterboard, allowing for insulation and dry lining in one single application.
• Improved Energy Efficiency: It enhances a building’s thermal performance, reducing heating bills and improving energy efficiency.

Disadvantages

• Cost: The main disadvantage of insulated plasterboard is its cost, as it is more expensive upfront than traditional insulation and standard plasterboard purchased separately.
• Limited Choice of Insulation: Insulation plasterboard may have a limited choice of insulation materials, and it can be heavy and difficult to handle.

Key Takeaways:

• Insulated plasterboard offers improved insulation values and energy efficiency
• Quick and easy installation is a benefit of using insulated plasterboard
• Higher cost and non-breathable nature are disadvantages to consider
• Insulated plasterboard may cause potential disruption when insulating internal walls
• Consider the specific requirements of your project before choosing insulated plasterboard

Types of Insulated Plasterboard

Insulated plasterboard comes in various types, each offering its own advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional plasterboard. These different types are designed to cater to specific insulation requirements and preferences.

Thermaline Basic

Thermaline Basic is a popular choice for those looking to make minor insulation improvements. It features a backing of expanded polystyrene, providing some thermal insulation benefits. While it may not offer the highest level of insulation, it can still contribute to improving energy efficiency.

Thermaline Plus

Thermaline Plus is another option to consider, as it offers enhanced insulation properties. It consists of 9.5mm plasterboard bonded to extruded polystyrene insulation. This type of insulated plasterboard provides a more substantial level of thermal insulation, making it suitable for projects where higher insulation values are desired.

Celotex PL4000

For those seeking advanced insulation performance, Celotex PL4000 is a suitable choice. It features a PIR foam board laminated to plasterboard, delivering excellent thermal insulation properties. This type of insulated plasterboard is ideal for projects where achieving superior insulation levels is a priority.

Kingspan Kooltherm K118

Kingspan Kooltherm K118 is another high-performance insulated plasterboard option. It is backed with phenolic insulation, providing outstanding thermal insulation benefits. This type of plasterboard is known for its exceptional thermal efficiency and can be a valuable option for projects aiming for maximum insulation performance.

When choosing the type of insulated plasterboard for your project, consider the level of insulation required, budget constraints, and specific project needs. Consulting with professionals can also help you make an informed decision.

When to Use Insulated Plasterboard

Insulated plasterboard offers numerous benefits that make it an ideal choice for various applications. One of the most common scenarios where insulated plasterboard is used is when upgrading insulation levels in existing properties. By installing the plasterboard on the internal side of external walls, you can significantly improve the insulation values of your home.

Moreover, insulated plasterboard can be particularly advantageous for new builds, especially when achieving the required “u” value targets using cavity wall construction proves to be challenging. With its two-in-one solution, this type of plasterboard provides quick and efficient insulation, saving both time and costs.

Dot and dab installation is another notable benefit of insulated plasterboard. This technique involves applying adhesive dots to the back of the plasterboard and securely fixing it to the wall. It simplifies the installation process and reduces the need for additional labor and materials.

Before deciding to use insulated plasterboard, it’s crucial to carefully consider factors such as labor costs, fixings, and material expenses. Consulting with experts will help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific project requirements. By weighing the benefits and evaluating the associated costs, you can determine whether insulated plasterboard is the right choice for your insulation needs.