Drywall / Plasterboard Calculator
Calculate the number of drywall or plasterboard sheets for any room. Accounts for doors, windows, sheet orientation, and cutting waste.
Drylining and Plastering Guide
Sheet Sizes
Standard UK plasterboard is 2400 × 1200mm. 2700 × 1200mm suits 2.7m ceilings with no horizontal joints. Larger sheets reduce joints but are heavy (9.5mm = ~25kg, 12.5mm = ~33kg per sheet) — plan carefully for solo installation.
Screw Spacing
Fix drywall screws at 150mm centres along edges and 200–250mm across the field. Use 38mm screws for 12.5mm board to timber, 55mm for double boarding. Over-drive screws slightly below the surface without breaking the paper face.
Foil-Backed vs Standard
Foil-backed plasterboard provides a vapour barrier on external walls, reducing the risk of condensation within the wall structure. Standard board is used for internal partitions. Moisture-resistant (MR) board should be used in bathrooms and kitchens.
Safety and Regulations
Most structural and electrical DIY work in England and Wales must comply with Building Regulations and is notifiable to local Building Control. Work that is not notifiable (like-for-like replacements, cosmetic changes) can be done without notification. Notifiable work done without approval is technically illegal and can cause problems when selling the property. Electrical work in most rooms requires a Part P competent person or Building Control inspection. Gas work must always be performed by a
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