Tools and Materials

Module 2:Tools and Materials

Essential Tools for Dry-Lining

A dry-liner’s toolkit includes specialized instruments for measuring, cutting, fixing, and finishing plasterboard. Key tools include:

1. Tape Measure & Pencil – For precise measurements and marking cutting lines.

2. Spirit Level (or Laser Level) – Ensures walls and ceilings are straight and plumb.

3. Utility Knife & Retractable Blade – For scoring and cutting plasterboard cleanly.

4. Plasterboard Saw or Jab Saw – Cuts out openings for sockets, switches, and pipes.

5. Screw Gun (Drywall Drill) – Adjustable clutch prevents over-driving screws into the board.

6. Plasterboard Rasp – Smooths rough edges after cutting.

7. T-Square or Straight Edge – Helps make straight cuts when scoring plasterboard.

8. Hawk & Trowel – For applying jointing compound (skim coat).

9. Corner Trowel – Ensures crisp, clean angles on internal and external corners.

10. Mixing Paddle & Bucket – For preparing adhesives and joint filler.

Fixings and Adhesives

Different fixing methods are used depending on the substrate and project requirements:

1. Dot & Dab (Drywall Adhesive Fixing)

• Material: Gypsum-based adhesive (e.g., ThistleBond or similar).

• Process: Adhesive is applied in large "dots" or continuous strips onto masonry walls before pressing plasterboard into place.

• Best For: Solid walls (brick/blockwork) where a smooth, flat finish is needed quickly.

2. Screws (Mechanical Fixing)

• Type: Drywall screws (coarse thread for timber, fine thread for metal studs).

• Length: Typically 25mm–50mm, depending on board thickness.

• Spacing: 150mm–300mm apart for secure fixing (closer near edges).

• Best For: Timber or metal framing systems.

3. Metal Framing Systems

• Components:

• Metal Studs & Tracks – Form the framework for partitions and ceilings.

• Self-Tapping Screws – Fix plasterboard to the metal structure.

• Best For: Non-load-bearing partitions, suspended ceilings, and curved walls.

4. Timber Battens

• Material: Treated softwood battens (25mm x 50mm or similar).

• Fixings: Screws or nails attach plasterboard to the timber framework.

• Best For: Older buildings with uneven walls or where metal framing isn’t suitable.

Insulation and Soundproofing Materials

Dry-lining often incorporates insulation or acoustic solutions for thermal and noise control. Common materials include:

1. Thermal Insulation

• PIR (Polyisocyanurate) Boards – High-performance rigid foam (e.g., Celotex, Kingspan).

• Mineral Wool (Rockwool or Glass Wool) – Flexible, fire-resistant insulation.

• Multi-Foil Insulation – Reflective layers for loft spaces and walls.

2. Acoustic Insulation

• Soundproof Plasterboard – Denser core with damping layers.

• Resilient Bars (Sound Isolation Clips) – Decouples plasterboard from structure to reduce noise transfer.

• Acoustic Mineral Wool – Absorbs sound waves within wall cavities.

3. Combined Systems

• Insulated Plasterboard – Pre-bonded PIR foam and plasterboard for all-in-one installation.

• Double-Layer Drywall – Two layers of acoustic board with Green Glue compound for studios.

Summary Table: Fixings & Materials Comparison