When it comes to interior construction and renovation, plasterboard (also known as drywall or gypsum board) is one of the most commonly used materials. Its versatility, ease of installation, and smooth finish make it a staple in both residential and commercial projects. However, not all plasterboards are created equal. Among the various options available, two of the most popular types are square edge plasterboard and tapered edge plasterboard. Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial for achieving the desired finish and ensuring a professional-quality result.
What Is Plasterboard?
Before diving into the differences, it’s important to understand what plasterboard is. Plasterboard consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between two layers of thick paper. Gypsum, a naturally occurring mineral, provides fire resistance, sound insulation, and a smooth, durable surface that can be painted or wallpapered. The edges of plasterboard sheets are designed to influence how the boards are joined together, which is where the distinction between square edge and tapered edge comes into play.
Square Edge Plasterboard
Square edge plasterboard, as the name suggests, features straight, squared-off edges. This type of board has no groove or taper along its sides; the edges are flat and meet at a 90-degree angle.
Advantages of Square Edge Plasterboard
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Cost Effective: Square edge boards are generally cheaper than tapered edge boards because they require less processing during manufacturing. For budget-conscious projects, this can be a significant factor.
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Simple Installation: Because the edges are straight, square edge boards can be butted directly together. This makes them straightforward to install, particularly for smaller jobs or temporary structures.
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Ideal for Certain Applications: Square edge boards are often used in situations where the joints will be covered by other materials, such as wall tiles, wood paneling, or decorative moldings. They are also suitable for partitions or ceilings where the finish doesn’t need to be flawless.
Disadvantages of Square Edge Plasterboard
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Visible Joints: The primary drawback of square edge boards is that the joints between sheets are more noticeable. Because the edges are flat, the joint filler sits on top of the surface rather than recessed into a groove. This can create slight ridges or unevenness if not carefully finished.
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Requires More Finishing Work: Achieving a smooth, seamless finish with square edge boards typically requires additional layers of joint compound, sanding, and sometimes reinforcing tape. For walls that will be painted or wallpapered, this extra work can add time and labor costs.
Tapered Edge Plasterboard
Tapered edge plasterboard features slightly beveled edges, creating a shallow groove along the length of each sheet. The tapering allows jointing compound to sit flush with the board surface, resulting in a smoother finish once sanded and painted.
Advantages of Tapered Edge Plasterboard
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Professional Finish: The main advantage of tapered edge boards is the high-quality finish they provide. When filled and sanded correctly, the joints between sheets are almost invisible, making them ideal for decorative walls, ceilings, and areas where a flawless appearance is essential.
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Easier Jointing: The taper acts as a guide for jointing compound and tape, allowing the material to naturally settle into the groove. This reduces the likelihood of lumps or bumps forming along the seam.
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Widely Used in Commercial and Residential Projects: Due to their superior finish, tapered edge boards are the standard choice for most residential homes and commercial interiors. They are particularly favored in high-visibility areas such as living rooms, offices, hotels, and retail spaces.
Disadvantages of Tapered Edge Plasterboard
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Higher Cost (Typically): The manufacturing process for tapered edge boards is slightly more complex, which generally makes them more expensive than square edge boards. The added cost may not be justified in areas where aesthetics are less important.
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More Precise Installation Required: While the tapered edge facilitates a smooth finish, it also requires careful alignment during installation. If the boards are not correctly positioned, the tape may not cover the joint properly, which can lead to uneven surfaces.
Choosing the Right Type for Your Project
The decision between square edge and tapered edge plasterboard largely depends on budget, aesthetics, and the intended use of the surface. With our unique pricing, however, the choice becomes easier:
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High Visibility or Decorative Surfaces: Use tapered edge plasterboard to achieve a flawless, professional finish. Now, with no extra cost, it’s even more appealing.
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Budget Conscious or Hidden Areas: Square edge plasterboard remains a practical solution, particularly for tiled walls, utility rooms, or partitions.
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Ceilings vs Walls: Ceilings often highlight imperfections more than walls. Using tapered edge plasterboard on ceilings is recommended to avoid noticeable joints. With our pricing, there’s no need to compromise.
Installation Considerations
Regardless of which type you choose, proper installation is key to achieving the desired finish. Some tips include:
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Use the Right Jointing Materials: For square edge boards, a stronger joint compound and reinforcing tape are recommended to fill the flat edges and prevent cracking. For tapered edge boards, standard joint compound and tape usually suffice.
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Ensure Proper Alignment: Even a small misalignment can be noticeable after painting. Take the time to line up sheets carefully, especially with tapered edges.
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Sand Carefully: For a smooth finish, sanding is essential. Tapered edges generally require less sanding, but both types benefit from light sanding between coats of joint compound.
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Consider Moisture and Fire Resistance: Both square and tapered edge boards are available in fire resistant plasterboard and moisture resistant plasterboard varieties for specialised projects.
Our Unique Offering: Same Price for Both Types
In most markets, tapered edge plasterboards cost more than square edge boards due to their superior finish and more complex manufacturing process. However, we offer both tapered edge and square edge plasterboards at the same price — a rare and customer‑friendly option. This means you don’t have to compromise on quality or aesthetics when working within a budget. Whether you want the seamless finish of tapered edges for living spaces or the simple, practical square edges for utility areas, you get the freedom to select without the usual price penalty.
