Do you Need to Use Gypsum Boards or Cement Boards?
Date: April 22 2019

Do you Need to Use Gypsum Boards or Cement Boards?

Author: Gypsum Boards or Cement Boards

Have you ever wondered how construction looked like before gypsum board and cement board existed? Or wondered about how it all began for these light-weight boards that took construction business to the next level? Construction in the old days was not an easy task, that’s for sure! With respect to the consumption of time, manpower, and money, it was a miracle to stay in business!

Decades ago, both gypsum board and cement board started to gain popularity, and soon afterward, they took the world by storm. That was simply because the boards overcame all the flaws of conventional buildings. Both boards were incredibly practical, not only in small buildings but also in skyscrapers and high rises. Indeed, gypsum and cement boards have enabled architects and designers to go wild with their imagination and simply put it into action.

Now, that you know how advantageous both boards are, you should decide on what you really need…gypsum board or cement board?

In this article, we are going to introduce you to both kinds of boards so that you can decide what you need accordingly.


Point of comparison Cement board Gypsum board
 

Shape

 

Come in panels

 

Come in panels

 

Composition

Cement slurry and reinforced fiberglass mesh Gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper
Weight Heavy panels Light panels
Durability and impact-resistance High Less
Cutting method

Needs a special saw and blade for cutting

Easy cutting, with a utility knife
Uses
  • Exterior: like Knauf Aquapanel Cement Board
  • Interior: in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Exterior: can’t withstand weather conditions
  • Interior: like Knauf moisture-resistant gypsum board
 

Sound insulation

Excellent Excellent
Heat insulation Excellent Excellent
Resistance to fire Excellent Excellent
Resistance to mold High High in waterproof and water-resistant types
Resistance to water Excellent Only water-resistant types can tolerate water
Tiling Can act as an underlay for tiles -
Surface One face is smooth and the other is rough (ideal for tiling purposes) Papery and smooth
Curved surface Easily manufactured for curved applications Easily manufactured for curved applications
Do-it-yourself application Difficult (you should seek professional help) Easy