School benefits from extra strong Gyproc Habito plasterboard

The construction of a new school in Southampton was kept on-track thanks to British Gypsum’s Gyproc Habito plasterboard, which is capable of supporting 15kg per fixing without the need for specialist fixings or pattressing, simply using standard No 10. woodscrews.

Upon starting work on the £24m Bitterne Park School project, sub-contractors ACL Construction discovered that the original drylining specification was not sufficient to meet the school’s needs.

A much stronger plasterboard product was required in order to support the variety of fixtures and fittings that would be attached to it throughout the school. As such, ACL Construction contacted British Gypsum, who they’d worked with before on previous projects, to see if they could help.

Jason Ford, Contracts Director, at ACL Construction said: “Although British Gypsum’s Gyproc Habito wasn’t specified in the original plans, this product turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

"After speaking to the British Gypsum representative they were able to get the product to us straight away with no delays; it was a really easy process. Using this innovative plasterboard meant that not only was the project kept on track time-wise, but in fact due to the ease of installation – it can be cut using the universal score and snap technique – meant that we saved time overall.

“Installing the Gyproc Habito takes just one step, compared to combining timber ply and plasterboard products, which we’ve used previously.”

Gyproc Habito features an engineered core, which provides enhanced levels of strength, durability and fixability. It provides far more strength than standard plasterboard. Moreover, its durability means walls are more resistant to damage and stay looking smarter for longer – ideal for a new build school.

Fixtures and fittings in the school, from radiators to furniture such as cupboards and storage units now hang on the walls throughout the school and the project was completed on-time.