CAN YOU DOT AND DAB INSULATED PLASTERBOARD TO CEILING?*
The Dot&Dab method is incredibly popular in the United Kingdom and beyond. It is easy and fast, which probably makes it a winner when it comes to attaching plasterboard or insulated plasterboard to the wall. But what about the ceiling? Can this method be used for fixing insulated plasterboard to the ceiling?
In this article, we will provide a clear answer on whether if is possible and practical to do so and what to avoid when opting for this type of installation.
GRAVITY vs DOT&DAB METHOD
Everyone knows what gravity is. Thanks to gravity, Earth orbits the Sun, and it's the force that holds together the stars forming our Galaxy. It's because of gravity that airplanes or rockets need engines, and individuals jumping from great heights require parachutes. Gravity is what keeps us standing on the ground, and anything thrown upward usually comes back down. The same principle applies to anything heavy fixed to the ceiling – if not secured properly it will simply fall, often with a loud crash!
When it comes to insulated plasterboard, it's essential to consider that the average weight of an 8’ x 4’ insulated plasterboard is around 30kg, which translates to about 11kg per square metre. While this might not be an excessive amount, when thinking about safety, it can be significant. Taking the average weight of an entire ceiling in a room in the UK (18m²) that has been attached using the Dot&Dab method with insulated plasterboard, the total weight could be up to 250kg, not to mention the weight of the adhesive.
Fixing insulated plasterboard to the ceiling using the Dot&Dab method requires careful consideration, taking into account the weight of the board itself as well as the adhesive. Safety should always be a top priority in such installations.
WHAT COULD GO WRONG WHEN USING THE DOT&DAB METHOD ON THE CEILING?
Before deciding to stick insulated plasterboard to the ceiling, you should be aware of potential consequences. Not all of them may occur, and you might observe only one or none at all. Nevertheless, it's essential to keep these possibilities in mind.
Here are situations that could go wrong with the installation of insulated plasterboard on the ceiling using the Dot&Dab method:
1. Cracks Caused by Loose Boards
When adhesive dots are not applied adequately or are unevenly distributed on the back of the insulated plasterboard, it may lead to weak spots, reducing the overall stability of the installation. Consequently, this can result in the gradual detachment of one of the boards, leading to cracks at the joint. If you observe such symptoms, it is crucial to promptly remove these boards from the ceiling.
2. Weak Background Plaster
The weight of the insulated plasterboard, combined with the adhesive, can be substantial. If the ceiling structure, in this case, the old plaster, is not designed to support this weight, there is a risk of the insulated plasterboard falling. Despite the appearance of strength in old plaster, it may not exhibit any alarming sounds when tapped. Nevertheless, under the added load, the situation can change dramatically. The plaster may slowly loosen and, as a consequence, detach along with everything affixed to it.
3. Adhesive Quality
It might seem that mixing adhesive for plasterboards is a straightforward task. That is further from the truth. When dealing with ceilings and gravity, the key is the quality of the adhesive's bond with both the plaster and the board. Improperly mixed or adhesive that has started to dry in the bucket won't perform as intended. It can lead to either the board detaching from the adhesive or the adhesive separating from the plaster, depending on which surface is weaker.
So, remember: "The effectiveness of the Dot&Dab method relies on a strong bond between the plasterboard and the ceiling. Poor bonding can result in sagging or detachment over time."
4. Moisture Issues
Moisture on the ceiling surface can compromise the adhesive's performance, leading to a weakened bond and potential stability issues with the insulated plasterboard.
5. Temperature Variations
Extreme temperature changes can significantly impact the adhesive's properties, potentially resulting in a catastrophe. So, if you plan to stick insulated plasterboard to a cold, uninsulated ceiling, reconsider your decision and reread this information. Unheated attics are often common locations for such scenarios!
6. Professional Installation?
The Dot&Dab method will require additional techniques during the adhesive drying period. Constant support for the insulated plasterboards fixed to the ceilings will be necessary, involving the use of ‘dead man’ supports. You'll likely need several to properly brace the ceiling, incurring additional costs and complexities.
Not many installers want to use the Dot&Dab method for attaching insulated plasterboard to the ceiling. Even if you find one, they might not offer a warranty, basically saying, "I wasn't here.
CAN YOU STICK INSULATED PLASTERBOARD TO THE CEILING? YES OR NO?
The answer is Yes and No. You can physically stick insulated plasterboard to the ceiling. However, whether it's safe is another matter. If, for specific reasons and considering all potential issues, you've decided to stick insulated plasterboard to the ceiling, it's possible. Doing so in an area where people don't usually spend time, such as a storage room, might be more acceptable.
Generally speaking, it's not recommended to adhere insulated plasterboard or regular plasterboard to the ceiling, especially in older structures where the plaster's adhesion may be questionable. If you choose to go ahead with installing insulated plasterboard to the ceiling, the correct method involves using a full spread of adhesive, not just applying it at isolated points. This method is like the one used for laying floor tiles. On the following day, after the adhesive has dried, it's recommended to reinforce the plasterboard's hold on the ceiling by screwing in a few additional screws.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, while the Dot&Dab method offers a seemingly convenient way to attach insulated plasterboard to the ceiling, it comes with its set of challenges and considerations. The weight of the boards, the quality of the adhesive, and potential issues related to moisture and temperature variations should not be underestimated.
Moreover, the importance of professional installation cannot be overstated, as it involves not only the initial application but also additional techniques during the drying period. ‘Dead man’ supports may be necessary to ensure the stability of the ceiling, adding both cost and complexity to the process.
Safety should always be a top priority, and any signs of issues, such as cracks or sagging, should prompt immediate attention.
Related articles:
How to fit insulated plasterboard
3 methods of cutting PIR insulation boards
Debunking the top 3 myths about vapour barriers and foam rigid insulation
Why insulated plasterboard over old plasterboard falls short
The power of ultra thin insulated plasterboard
Insulated plasterboard around windows.
Worry-free tv setup: how to securely mount your tv on insulated plasterboard?
How to properly install insulated plasterboard on external corners?
The perfect fit: insulated plasterboard dimensions and options
Insulated plasterboard over plaster: short installation guide.
Mastering insulated plasterboard fixings: best practices for solid walls.
A comprehensive guide to insulated plasterboard for ceiling insulation.
Insulated plasterboard: finding the sweet spot for optimal thickness.
Managing moisture: do you need a vapour barrier with insulated plasterboard?
Foil insulation: to gap or not to gap? that is the question!
The dangers of over insulating your home.
How to work out how many square metres of insulation I would need?
How to choose the right Kingspan insulation board for construction?
Plasterboard cutting techniques.
3 golden reasons why is worth use moisture resistant plasterboard
3 Popular insulated plasterboard thicknesses
5 Benefits of Insulated Plasterboard
How To Dot & Dab Wall Insulation Boards
Energy saver insulation. How to improve thermal insulation levels in your home?
Rigid insulation board bonded to plasterboard. How does it sound?
Internal wall insulation - is it risky?
4 Alternative building insulation materials
Building regs part L changes. What is all about?
*Insulationgo LTD strives to keep the content accurate and up-to-date, but we cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or exclusions.
The information in this blog isn't expert advice and shouldn't replace talking to the right specialists. Before buying or deciding anything based on this info, it's best to contact the product manufacturer directly to double-check if it's right for what you need.
Descriptions, drawings, photographs, data, proportions, weights, and measured values provided here may change without prior notice and do not establish the guaranteed contractual quality of the products. The recipient of these products holds the responsibility to comply with proprietary rights, existing laws, and legislation.
Using this blog implies acknowledgment and agreement that Insulationgo LTD cannot be held accountable for any damages, losses, or inconveniences resulting from the use or reliance upon the information provided. This limitation of liability extends to all users of the blog, including visitors, readers, and subscribers.
