Traditionally, plasterboard and its application are considered in simple terms, which involves the purchase of generic boards and fixings required to complete the job. However, drywall partitioning is much more than just the board and screws and should be approached as a holistic solution that contributes to a building’s performance. This requires a conscious change in how we consider plasterboard, the frame structure and associated accessories to meet project requirements.
A system approach to drywall installations usually comprises of complementary products from one manufacturer that come together to work as a whole. Component parts i.e. specific board type, an appropriate frame and necessary joining solution, are tested as part of a full system, enabling manufacturers to offer a guaranteed warranty when installed as instructed. In return, installers benefit from peace of mind that their partitioning solution will deliver the required performance. For example, a system combining constituent properties including non-combustibility and sound absorption culminates in a high-performance solution to help meet requirements relating to fire safety and acoustic performance.
Knauf offers several drywall partitioning systems, developed to meet the needs of diverse projects. These involve specific board types in combination with metal tracks and studs, fixings, powdered or ready-mixed jointing compounds, and tapes and beads for fire safety, energy efficiency, sound absorption, moisture resistance and other properties. Some prominent Knauf drywall systems include:
The Knauf Moisture Panel system includes additives that resist the ingress of moisture, making it ideal for high humidity areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. It provides a stable base for tiling or plastering. Standard board would usually require extra components for moisture protection, and the builder may need to return to rectify issues such as tile popping.
The Knauf Soundshield Plus system helps to achieve the right acoustics. The board’s high mass and tuned core reduce or stop noise transfer between neighbouring rooms, while also providing excellent fire and impact resistance. Soundshield is ideal where homeowners are looking to balance work and family life in the same living space.
The Knauf Fire Panel system has been tested to the latest EN standards, offering superior fire protection over standard board. The additional fire protection properties of this system make it ideal for use in separating walls, garages and corridors. In the event of a fire, as part of a drywall system, Fire Panel is designed to slow the spread of fire between rooms allowing for safe evacuation of the building.
All of Knauf’s systems include metal framing, which offers many advantages over traditional timber frame. The metal frames and studs are manufactured from high-quality galvanised steel which, unlike wooden partitions, do not warp and are protected from environmental conditions.
Metal partitions are also lighter, meaning they can be transported more easily and safely, saving time on site; in fact, metal partitions can be four times quicker to install than wood! They are also easier to cut, allowing for more flexibility in measurements and meaning fewer errors and potentially less wastage.
From powdered jointing compounds, ready-mixed compounds to tapes and beads, Knauf’s jointing ranges have been developed to provide a smooth, professional finish and comply with BS EN 13963:2014.
Premium powdered joint compounds are lump free, easy to mix and provide a soft but stable consistency. Suitable to be applied by hand or machine, the compounds travel easily and can be sanded, making them easy to apply. Powdered jointing compounds include:
Knauf’s ready-mixed jointing compounds are available in either Fill & Finish, which comes in a ‘green top’ container, or Fill & Finish Light in a ‘blue top’. Both offer easy to sand and low shrinkage alternatives to traditional jointing solutions which require no water and can be prepared in just eight minutes.
The green top is a medium density product offering workability and dexterity, while the blue top is less dense, giving more coverage for the tub’s volume. Both options provide a superior finish and dry in 12-24 hours, with an industry-leading shelf life of 12 months. Ready-mixed jointing compounds result in less dust than powdered products as they do not require mixing, while excess product can be put back in the tub, reducing waste.
To complete the Knauf metal partitioning system, tapes and beads ensure strong joints and durable corners. The range includes:
Encon & Nevill Long provides the full range of Knauf partitioning systems across our national branch network. As the UK’s leading independent distributor of building materials, we offer a wide choice from market-leading brands.
By working with us as your trusted distributor partner, we ensure all system components are delivered to your site or yard when you need it. You can also benefit from our longstanding relationship with Knauf for access to expert support from their technical team.
To find out how we can help your next project, or to learn more about Knauf’s range and systems, contact your local Encon branch.
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