Tapered Edge Plasterboard: What Is It and How Is It Used?

The tapered-edge plasterboard has a slightly lower edge on each side of the board. When you look at a tapered-edge plasterboard, you will see the board gently dip towards the edge. This is intentional and will make it easier to slot multiple boards together, which can help to speed up construction time.

After taping and jointing tapered edge plasterboard you will also get the benefit of a seamless finish, which should provide the appearance of a single board - if fitted and finished correctly.

What is Tapered Edge Plasterboard Used For?

Square edge plasterboard is used for ceilings more commonly than walls - but if you are plastering the ceiling then you can use either type. 

Although mostly for walls, tapered edge plasterboard is used for the same reasons as any other type of plasterboard - such as the following:

• Building internal wall partitions.
• Improving insulation in internal or external walls.
• Improving fire resistance in high-risk areas.
• Reducing noise-pollution.

Most manufacturers offer a version of their plasterboards that features a tapered edge finish, whether that is acoustic plasterboard, insulated or any other type they produce.

The main reason why people use plasterboards with a tapered edge is for the seamless finish it provides. It is also easier to put multiple boards together, which can speed up the process when fitting a large number of boards across a wide space. 

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What is the Difference Between Tapered and Square Edge Plasterboard?

The only difference between tapered edge and square edge plasterboard is the shape. Tapered-edge plasterboard is also generally a bit more expensive than a square edge.

The level of thermal insulation you can achieve is the same no matter what edge type you select, as long as they are fitted correctly. Thermal performance is also not impacted by the presence of a tapered edge. 

You can cut both types of plasterboard to fit around any obstacles or protrusions, such as plug sockets. When cutting any type of plasterboard, you will likely end up with some waste.

Do I Need Tapered or Square Edge Cuts?

When it comes to choosing the best plasterboard, tapered edges will make for a faster installation - so if you have a larger project, they may be the best choice. 

If price is a concern, or you are installing boards on a ceiling, a square edge is usually more appropriate.

What Tapered Edge Plasterboard Brands Are Available? 

There is not a single manufacturer that is known specifically for their tapered edge boards, as it is simply a different type of finish on the same boards. As a result, simply choosing a quality brand is the best way to make sure you get the best-tapered edge boards. 

We stock the following reputable brands of plasterboard, all of which offer tapered-edge versions of most of the boards they produce:

• British Gypsum
• Celotex
• Ecotherm
• Fermacell
• Forgefix
• GTEC
• JCW
• Kingspan
• Knauf
• NPS
• Recticel
• Siniat
• Speedline
• Warmline

In terms of what the best brand is, it all depends on what your requirements are. Some manufacturers focus on specific types of boards, such as acoustic or fire-rated. Other manufacturers are solid all-rounders - for example, Knauf plasterboard is known for a variety of types that are all good quality.

What Sizes of Tapered Edge Plasterboard Are Available?

The sizes available when it comes to tapered-edge plasterboard do not relate to the size of the tapered edge itself. The good news is that you can get very large plasterboards with tapered edges, which makes the process of installation across a large area much easier.

Standard plasterboard sizes, available in tapered and square edge cuts, include the following:

• 1220mm x 900mm
• 1800mm x 900mm
• 2400mm x 1200mm
• 2400mm x 900mm
• 2500mm x 1200mm
• 2700mm x 1200mm
• 3000mm x 1200mm
• 3600mm x 1200mm

Plasterboard, whether it has a tapered edge or not, is simple and easy to cut with a saw or utility knife - you can even just score and snap many boards for extra convenience. So, even if you do not have the precise size for your space you can easily cut a piece of plasterboard to the required size.

Things to Remember When Fitting Tapered Edge Plasterboard

Tapered edge plasterboard is easily fixed to timber joints on internal walls, cavity walls and also on masonry walls. It is the same as any other plasterboard in this regard. Once the plasterboard is fitted, skimmed and finished it is ready for decoration.

The good thing is that you do not have to use mechanical fixings for walls, dot-and-dab using adhesives and jointing compounds will normally be all that is required with a tapered edge cut. 

Making sure that all joints are taped with quality joint tape and skimmed with either plaster or filler is essential for a smooth, easy-to-decorate surface. You should also cover external corners with beading to prevent any damage or crumbling of the board’s edges if there are any accidental knocks after fitting. 

Once you fit the plasterboard you also have the option to skim it completely with plaster. Skimming will give the tapered edges a smooth, uniform appearance.