

Usually these exposures do not present a health risk.īut when exposure is great, some individuals, particularly those with allergies and asthma, can experience illness that could be mild to serious or anywhere in between. We breathe in these cells every day, indoors and out. Mould and mildew growth have become a big deal lately due to health concerns.Įxposure to mould can occur when airborne mould cells, mostly spores, are inhaled. The main benefit of mould resistant drywall is that moisture doesn’t have the chance to feed on the organic materials which comprise paper-backed drywall. Instead of the traditional paper facing for the inner slabs of gypsum, fibreglass mat is substituted. Mould-resistant drywall is one of the better innovations in the often moribund world of drywall technology. In addition to the fibreglass being moisture resistant, the gypsum core is also water resistant. The greatest advantage of this type of drywall, especially in a high humidity environment like Bermuda, is its mould-resistant qualities. Paperless drywall still has the gypsum core, but is wrapped in fibreglass instead of paper. This inevitably led to mould growth and disastrous tile projects, leading many to question the effectiveness and need for greenboard.īasically, it will work well on walls where it will not be in direct contact with water, but should never be used on floors or ceilings. Many contractors feel it is no more effective than regular drywall for moisture control and gives a false sense of security.Īdditionally some contractors, in an attempt to pinch pennies, were using it instead of waterproof cement board for backing beneath tile work and shower enclosures. There have been differing opinions in the past couple of years regarding greenboard. Unlike paperless drywall, greenboard will not discourage mould growth. It comes in half-inch or five-eighths of an inch thicknesses, and can be used in any room throughout a building. Greenboard can be used in areas with higher moisture contents, but it is important to remember it is only water resistant, not waterproof. This paper is green, thus the name ‘greenboard’. The paper is coated with wax to help control moisture absorption. It has the same gypsum core as the other varieties, but is covered in a thicker, more water-resistant paper than standard drywall. The materials are actually the least expensive portion of the project.ĭrywall installation requires much skill and expertise, and the more spent on labour, the better quality the result. You can also use two layers of drywall for added privacy, or insulation inserted between two layers of drywall. A five-eighths of an inch can be used in areas where you want more of a sound barrier or where you need additional strength. The most commonly used board is a half-inch, regular fire-coded drywall. There are special drywalls treated in order to be more water-resistant, which work well around plumbing or in moist climates such as Bermuda.Ī common moisture resistant drywall is called greenboard, due to its green colouring. It comes in a quarter-inch, a half-inch or five-eighths of an inch widths. The most common variety is the regular fire-coded four by eight foot or four by nine foot sheet. There are a few varieties of drywall available that you should be aware of before making your purchase. The wall is then primed, textured or finished with the paint and design of your choice. The seams are covered with drywall tape and drywall compound to create a seamless, smooth appearance. This is attached to the framing of your walls, and covers the insulation, electrical wires, communications conduits and plumbing. In general, all types basically consist of an inner core made of gypsum plaster with a heavy paper or fibreglass cover. The professionals at Atlantic Building Supplies can help you to determine what size, thickness and type is needed to complete your project.ĭrywall is used worldwide as the standard finishing material for interior walls. Before you start a remodelling or repair job, it is good to know what types of drywall are available in Bermuda and their best application.
