Mastering the art of plasterboarding a garage: Essential tips and tricks for a flawless finish
Transforming Your Garage: A Comprehensive Guide to Plasterboarding
Plasterboarding a garage can turn it into an additional living or working space, without the need for an extension. This article outlines the essential tools, materials, and steps involved in plasterboarding your garage.
Essential Tools
To plasterboard a garage effectively, you'll need a specific set of tools designed for measuring, cutting, fitting, securing, and finishing the plasterboard sheets.
- Tape measure and pencil for accurate measurements and marking
- Jab saw and utility knife for cutting plasterboard
- Hand saw and jigsaw for more detailed cuts or holes
- T-square for drawing straight lines and alignment
- Hole saw for making round cuts (e.g., for sockets)
- Combi drill for drilling and screwing
- Laser or spirit level to ensure walls and sheets are level
- Working platform or scaffold to safely reach high areas
Optional but helpful lifting tools:
- Plasterboard lifter for positioning sheets on walls
- Plasterboard hoist for ceilings and awkward angles
Recommended example products (from trusted brands) include DEWALT jab saw, Makita hole saw kits and jigsaws, FELLAT laser level, and Werner work platforms for ease and precision.
Materials
- Plasterboard sheets sized for the garage walls/ceilings
- Plasterboard screws to securely attach sheets to the frame
- Plasterboard jointing tape to cover seams
- Filling compounds or plaster repair compound for finishing joints and screw holes
- Possibly plasterboard adhesive if attaching sheets without a frame
- Sandpaper or sanding blocks for smoothing finished surfaces
- Drop sheets to protect floors during work
Additional tools helpful for finishing include broad knives or filling blades for applying compound, sponges for smoothing, and dust masks/safety goggles for protection.
The Plasterboarding Process
- Put up a frame: The first step in plasterboarding a garage is to put up a frame, which can be made of metal or timber studs. If using wooden battens, a moisture-proof membrane should be fitted between them and the wall.
- Install insulation: Insulation is placed in the spaces between the battens. Boards are often a better choice, but typically cost more.
- Attach plasterboard: When attaching plasterboard to timber battens, screwing into the plasterboard is the preferred choice. Appropriate screws, like TIMCO Drywall Fine Thread Bugle Head Black Screws, should be used.
- Install vapour barrier: To stop condensation, a vapour barrier should be installed over the insulation before fitting the plasterboard.
- Finish the plasterboard: Skimming the plasterboard can be done to achieve a hardwearing finish, but this will add to the overall cost.
Cost Considerations
As a general guideline, plasterboard, insulation, vapour barriers, and fixings can cost between £300 and £600 for an average-sized garage. A professional job might cost between £700 and £1200, including materials and labour. Labour costs will depend on location and experience, with expected rates ranging from £150 to £250 per day.
Safety First
Always use safety gear, such as dust masks, safety goggles, and gloves, to protect yourself from dust and debris during the plasterboarding process.
By following these steps, you can transform your garage into a comfortable and functional space. Happy plasterboarding!
[1] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/DEWALT-24-Inch-Jab-Saw-DW515/dp/B00004VZJX] [2] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Makita-450W-Corded-Jigsaw-4329K/dp/B00009P56Y] [3] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/HFM-Woodworking-Scriber-T-Square-Ruler/dp/B0000CQK84] [4] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Makita-D-47307-Hole-Saw-Kit/dp/B00009P58G] [5] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/FELLAT-Laser-Level-LL2000-3-5m/dp/B00009P55O] [6] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Werner-Compact-PRO-Work-Platform/dp/B00009P5T8] [7] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sandy-Beach-Plasterboard-Carrier-12-Pack/dp/B00006825N] [8] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/tectake-Plasterboard-Lifter-12-Pack/dp/B079J4X462] [9] [https://www.amazon.co.uk/TIMCO-Drywall-Fine-Thread-Bugle-Head-Pack/dp/B00004VZJW]
- The utility of plasterboarding a garage extends beyond just a living or working space, as it can also serve as additional storage for tools and home-and-garden items.
- For those with creative ideas, the plasterboard extension could be designed to match or contrast with the existing home's architecture and lifestyle.
- Before starting the plasterboarding project, it's crucial to consider the budget and costs involved, as the extension might require new roofing or door installation.
- Insulation should not be overlooked, as it helps regulate the temperature within the garage-turned-living-space, reducing energy costs.
- A guide on home-and-garden improvement projects could provide valuable insights into the plasterboarding process, helping ensure a successful outcome.
- The design of the garage-extension can be tailored to suit specific needs, such as accommodating workbenches and workspace for hobbies or small businesses.
- While plasterboarding the garage, following safety regulations is imperative to prevent accidents and ensure a healthy living environment.
- In addition to the essential tools mentioned, having a combi drill with a vapor-barrier bit can simplify the installation of the vapor barrier.
- After completing the project, the finished garage space can significantly enhance the overall value and appeal of your home.
