Not all standard plasterboard is created equal

Thirty years ago, a small company began in Auckland that was set to rival one of the largest construction material companies in the country. It grew quickly, and its products became the favoured choice for those in the ‘know’. Today, its products are known for their superiority in the market and it remains the only major competitor for a market otherwise monopolised by one player.

In the early 1990s, both companies released plasterboard systems that could be used for bracing. The new systems offered something new: a stronger fixing method and the use of panel end hold downs. This took away the need for plywood and other systems used for the bracing of internal and external walls.

It was in this product release where Elephant Plasterboard set themselves apart, and retain their point of difference today. Elephant Plasterboard’s bracing systems either equal or outperform other manufacturers’ bracing systems.

“Our standard boards are 10 per cent denser and provide a higher bracing value than our competitor’s standard boards,” Elephant Plasterboard’s Kevin van Hest says. “Our focus is always on the end user and what they will experience. Yes, you can use a cheaper, lighter alternative, but it won’t provide the same results.”

Elephant Plasterboard’s standard range is called Standard-Plus, and offers a stronger alternative to the commonly-used plasterboard. The Standard-Plus range provides better seismic and wind loadings. “It also has a 30-minute fire rating compared to a 15-minute fire rating with other brands,” Kevin says.

But perhaps the most enviable point of difference of Elephant Plasterboard’s Standard-Plus boards offer is the ability to reduce associated material and labour costs.

“When you’re using the competitor’s standard 10mm plasterboard on the ceiling, battens have to be at 400mm or 450mm centres, and when battens are at 600mm centres, you need to use the competitor’s 13mm boards.

“Whereas with the Elephant Plasterboard range, 10mm Standard-Plus boards are stronger, and therefore can be installed with battens at 600mm centres, which means they are immediately more cost effective because they significantly reduce on labour, material and installation costs.”

Because the boards are denser, they also have higher impact resistance and noise control than standard options.

Moving up from the Standard-Plus range, Elephant Plasterboard then has a 10mm and a 13mm Multi-Board, which is a fireboard with increased noise control and impact resistance. “This is a multi-functional board that can be used for any type of project.”

Elephant Aquaboard completes the range, with a board that can be used in bathrooms and wet areas – essentially a water-resistant version of the Multi-Board.

“We are priced similar to our competitor, but we provide a compact range – 48 options across the three ranges compared to around 72 for our competitor – and the boards are cost-effective because of the reduced labour required to install them. Furthermore, often where costlier, denser boards are specified for bracing, Elephant Plasterboard has systems that will allow for the use of the Standard-Plus Board instead.”

Elephant Plasterboard products are available throughout all major general merchants around the country. If you’re looking for a smarter solution, get in touch with Elephant Plasterboard on ArchiPro here to see what can be achieved.