10 Common Plasterboard Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Whether you're a seasoned tradie or tackling plasterboard installation for the first time, mistakes can happen — and they can be costly. From cracking to moisture damage, poor installation can affect the durability and look of your finish. Here's our list of the 10 most common plasterboard mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Plasterboard

One size doesn't fit all. Standard boards aren't suitable for wet areas, and using non-fire-rated board in required zones risks non-compliance. Check your application and match it to the correct product from our plasterboard range.

2. Not Staggering Joints

Aligning vertical joints weakens the wall structure. Always stagger joints between rows of plasterboard for better strength and crack resistance.

3. Poor Screw Placement

Too close to the edge and the board can crumble. Too far apart and you'll get movement. Stick to 10–16mm from edges and space screws 200–300mm apart.

4. Overdriving Screws

Overdriven screws break the board surface and reduce holding strength. The screw should sit just below the surface without tearing the paper.

5. Skipping Back-Blocking

Back-blocking ceiling joins prevents sagging and future cracking. It’s worth the extra step for long-term performance.

6. Using Standard Board in Bathrooms

Moisture damage is one of the biggest plasterboard failures — especially in bathrooms and laundries. Always use moisture-resistant board in wet areas and pair it with proper waterproofing.

7. No Expansion Joints

Large ceilings and long corridors need control joints to accommodate movement. Without them, you’ll likely see cracking down the track.

8. Taping and Jointing Errors

Using too much compound or failing to embed tape correctly leads to visible joints and cracking. Choose the right compounds and adhesives and take your time to feather out each layer.

9. Not Leaving a Gap from Floor to Sheet

Plasterboard should never sit directly on the floor. Leave a 10mm gap to prevent moisture wicking up from the slab or subfloor.

10. Rushing the Sanding

A rushed sanding job can ruin even the best taping. Wait for each layer to dry, then sand gently with the right grit. Use a light and check the finish before painting.

Bonus Tip: Get the Right Gear

From adhesives to acoustic boards, having the right product makes every step easier. Shop our full range of plasterboard and installation tools online.

Need help choosing the right setup? Get in touch with our team — we’ll help you avoid the common pitfalls and get your project done right.