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How to install plasterboard

Newly installed plasterboard giving the wall a fresh look.

Overview

Installing plasterboard is a key step in any renovation or building project, whether you're creating new walls or refreshing old ones. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to install plasterboard, including internal and external corners.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1 Measure the wall

Begin by measuring the height and width of your wall using a tape measure. This will help you calculate how many plasterboard sheets you’ll need. Plasterboard typically comes in standard widths of 1200mm or 1350mm and in various lengths. For easier installation, choose a length slightly longer than your wall height to reduce the number of cuts and joins.
A Bunnings Team Member uses a tape measure to measure a wooden wall frame with vertical beams.

2Cut the plasterboard

To cut the plasterboard, place it on a flat surface and mark your desired cut line. Align a T-Square with the mark to ensure a straight edge, and use a sharp utility knife to score deeply along the T-Square. Once scored, lift and apply pressure on either side of the line to snap the board cleanly along the score. Finally, cut through the paper backing on the underside with the utility knife to finish the cut. Smooth rough edges if you need for a clean finish.
A person in black gloves cutting plasterboard with a utility knife and a Professional Drywall T-Square

3 Apply stud adhesive and position the plasterboard

Before securing your plasterboard to the wall, place 10mm packers along the bottom edge to create a gap for expansion (don’t worry, this will be covered by the skirting boards). Apply stud adhesive to the wall studs using a spatula, then carefully lift the plasterboard into place. Align it with the studs and ensure a snug fit before securing it.
A person in a red T-shirt applies stud adhesive to wall studs with a spatula.

4 Secure the plasterboard with screws

Once the plasterboard is in place, use a drill to insert 25mm plasterboard screws along the sheet’s edges. Space the screws about 200mm apart, ensuring they sit just below the plasterboard surface without tearing the paper. Use screws only along the edges, as the stud adhesive will hold the middle of the sheet. If your wall requires more than one plasterboard sheet, make sure the edges meet in the centre of a stud. This will provide a strong join for securing both sheets.
A Bunnings Team Member is inserting screws into the plasterboard with a drill driver.

5Tape and joint the plasterboard

Use self-adhesive jointing tape for easier application. Starting at one end of the seam, press the tape firmly into place, making sure it is centred over the joint. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles with your hand or a flat trowel.
A person in a red T-shirt presses jointing tape with one hand while holding a trowel in the other

6Apply base coat

Then, mix your base coat compound following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a plastering trowel to apply a thin layer of compound over the tape and screw heads and ensure the surface is smooth for the next coat.
A person in a red T-shirt uses a plastering trowel to apply a thin layer of base coat compound over the tape.

7Finish external corners

Position the bead along the external corner, ensuring it’s straight, and secure it firmly with a stapler. Use a spirit level to confirm perfect alignment, making adjustments if needed before the adhesive sets or re-securing with additional staples.
A person in a red T-shirt uses a stapler to secure beads along the external corner.

8Apply a base coat over the bead

Apply a base coat of plaster over the corner bead, using a plastering trowel to press the plaster firmly into place and taper it out onto the wall. Use a 30 to 45-degree angle with the trowel to achieve a smooth blend.
A hand is applying a base coat of plaster over the corner bead with a trowel.

9 Finish internal corners

Apply a thin coat of base compound to internal corners, then pre-fold jointing tape and press it into the corner. Use a corner trowel to apply plaster over the tape, running it smoothly from bottom to top with even pressure to spread the plaster evenly across both sides.
A person in a red T-shirt is applying a thin coat of base compound to the internal corners

10Apply the top coat

Then apply the top coat, feathering it out wider than the base coat. For external corners, use a larger trowel to blend the plaster into the surrounding wall. For internal corners, use the corner trowel again, ensuring the plaster spreads evenly.
A person in a red T- shirt is applying plaster to a wall while holding a plastering trowel in one hand and a putty knife in the other

11 Sand and finish

Once the top coat is dry, sand the plastered areas lightly with a sanding block to remove any bumps or ridges. Wipe down the walls to remove dust, and you’re ready to paint or decorate.
A Bunnings Team Member, wearing safety goggles and a dust mask, sands a wall to smooth out any bumps.

12Looking for more out of your plastered wall?

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.