Plasterboards have come a long way since the U.S. Gypsum company (USG) invented the drywall in 1916. Initially the material was introduced as fireproof tiles, and after several years it evolved into multi-layer gypsum and paper sheets. Soon after, it became the plasterboard form as we know it today. Nowadays, innovation in the plasterboard systems has advanced to include many useful attributes which are also designed to meet Australian building standards. Previously, we introduced the various types of plasterboards which can be fire, sound, or moisture resistant. However, it is not uncommon fo ..read more

Industry Associations, including the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries (AWCI), periodically prescribe standards for plastering and recommend levels of desired finish of walls and ceilings prior to decoration. So, what are the differences between the three Levels of finishes, and which is the generally accepted default level for a commercial fitout? Here in Australia, the AS/NZS (Australian/New Zealand Standard) 2589:2017 titled ‘Gypsum linings – Application and finishing’ defines the Three Levels of Finish for plasterboard walls and ceilings. The standard indicates minimum specificati ..read more

When it comes to commercial plastering, it’s a precise and complex process, requiring the expertise of professional plasterers who are highly experienced in all aspects of plastering. As a well-established company in the commercial plastering market with industry experience of over 35 years PGP Plastering is on the leading edge for providing seamless quality workmanship delivered on time at a competitive price in the Commercial Interior fitout industry. Our team of plastering experts are strategically positioned throughout Australia enabling PGP to provide a wide range of advanced plastering s ..read more

When it comes to construction in bushfire prone areas in Australia, the bushfire risk for a particular building is defined by its BAL, or known as Bushfire Attack Level. This risk level is usually rated by a qualified bushfire consultant who examines the location and prepares a bushfire report or a bushfire risk assessment. In the event of a fire, the BCA (Building Code of Australia) specifies requirements for walls and ceilings in terms of fire performance, and the Australian Standard AS 3959-2009 cover the requirements for the Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas. The standard s ..read more

To protect the structural integrity of buildings, in addition to fire and acoustic performances which we’ve previously discussed, the Building Code of Australia (BCA) also includes waterproofing requirements for plastering wet area walls and ceilings. The BCA performance based code that contains the requirements for wet area plastering of buildings in Australia is published by the Australian Building Codes board. Typical applications of water resistant plastering are for areas in which moisture and humidity is present, such as: Showers and change rooms, Restrooms, Laundries, Kitchens, Hospital ..read more

Previously, we discussed the requirements of Fire Performance on plasterboard walls and ceilings as guided by The Building Code of Australia (BCA). In addition to fire rating, plasterboard systems and installation are also required to comply with Acoustic Performance as set out by the BCA. Acoustic performance helps to ensure occupant comfort and privacy, certain constructions will require enhanced acoustic absorption to reduce sound transfer between spaces, for example: Offices Apartments Classrooms Medical centres and Hospitals Retail and Shop fitouts Restaurants Higher acoustic performance ..read more

If you’ve heard of the term “plaster of Paris”, you might wonder how it came about. Plaster of Paris is also known as gypsum plaster, which since ancient times have been prepared from the abundant gypsum found near Paris. Interestingly, it is also related to one of the earliest fire codes in which Louis XIV of France issued a royal decree in 1667 requiring buildings in Paris to be protected with gypsum plaster after the Great Fire of London. The special fire-resistant properties of gypsum plaster have since been used for centuries for fire protection. Nowadays, fire safety requirements are gui ..read more

Commonly seen in commercial spaces, suspended and grid ceilings offer attractive features and practicality with a wide variety of design options to suit the style and needs of different industries. Suspended grid ceilings are perfect for concealing ducts, plumbing, wiring, or cables while ensuring easy access for maintenance when needed. Various types of materials can be used for acoustic purposes, safety, insulation, as well as enhancing aesthetics in the overall interior design of the space. The earliest use of suspended ceilings dates back nearly half a century ago in Japan for aesthetics ..read more

Lighting is an important element when it comes to construction design and can affect the overall atmosphere and ambiance of an area. Before the start of a construction project, it is crucial to consider how the overall appearance may be affected by ‘Glancing Light’ issues and thus the required Level of Finish for walls and ceilings. What is Glancing Light? The term “Glancing Light” generally refers to a critical or unfavourable lighting in which surface irregularities are accentuated and emphasised when light is shone directly across the surface of a wall or ceiling. This can include natural a ..read more

When it comes to any commercial shop or office fitout project, it is important to not only select the best team of tradesmen, but to also prepare a proper program of scheduling in order to achieve the highest productivity and the best finish. Effective programming is key to a successful project. As renovations and new fitouts involve a variety of tasks and crews of different trades, each task is required to be thoughtfully planned out in advance, in the correct order. Here’s why: 1. On-Time Completion First and foremost, a program details the timeline of when each task should take place to al ..read more