Having plasterboard fitted costs an average of €40–80 per m² including materials, studwork and labour. Do it yourself and you only pay for materials: €15–30 per m² for a complete wall including metal stud frame and finishing. On a 15 m² wall that is a saving of €375–750. Fitting plasterboard is one of the most versatile DIY tasks: you can use it to build partition walls, straighten existing walls or conceal pipework and cables. In this article you’ll find everything you need to know.
What Does Fitting Plasterboard Cost? DIY vs Hiring a Tradesperson
Cost Overview
| Component | DIY per m² | Tradesperson per m² |
|---|---|---|
| Metal stud frame (CW50) | €4–6 | included |
| Plasterboard (12.5 mm) | €5–8 | included |
| Finishing (joint compound, scrim tape) | €2–4 | included |
| Labour costs | €0 | €20–40 |
| **Total per m²** | **€11–18** | **€35–60** |
Example calculation: partition wall of 15 m²
- DIY: approx. €165–270
- Hired tradesperson: approx. €525–900
- Savings: €360–630
When Is DIY Worth It?
Fitting plasterboard is well within the ability of the average DIYer. It requires basic tools (cordless screwdriver, spirit level, tape measure) and some patience when finishing the joints. Allow one working day for the frame and boards on a 15 m² wall, and one day for filling and sanding.
Which Plasterboard Do You Need?
| Type | Thickness | Application | Price per board (2.6 m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (white) | 12.5 mm | Interior rooms, partition walls | €8–11 |
| Moisture-resistant (green) | 12.5 mm | Bathroom, kitchen | €11–15 |
| Fire-resistant (pink/red) | 12.5 mm | Escape routes, plant rooms | €14–18 |
| Soundproof | 12.5–15 mm | Bedroom, office, studio | €12–18 |
| Thick board | 15 mm | High walls, heavy loadings | €12–16 |
| Aquapanel (cement board) | 12.5 mm | External walls, wet areas | €18–25 |
Rule of thumb: Use standard 12.5 mm for ordinary interior rooms. Always use moisture-resistant board in the bathroom. Important: for external walls or façades always use Aquapanel or equivalent (standard plasterboard absorbs moisture).
Metal Stud Frame: What Is the Difference?
| Profile type | Use | Size |
|---|---|---|
| UW profile (U-shape) | Floor and ceiling track | 50, 75, 100 mm |
| CW profile (C-shape) | Studs (wall uprights) | 50, 75, 100 mm |
| Bracing | Extra stiffness for wide walls | Diagonal connection |
CW50/UW50 is the standard for partition walls up to approximately 3 m high. For higher walls or walls with heavy loads, use CW75 or CW100.
Materials List (partition wall 15 m², height 2.6 m, width 5.8 m)
| Material | Quantity | Estimated price |
|---|---|---|
| UW50 tracks (floor + ceiling) | 2 × 5.8 m = 12 m | €25–35 |
| CW50 studs (at 600 mm centres) | 10 pieces × 2.6 m | €40–55 |
| Plasterboard 12.5 mm (2600×1200) | 13–14 boards | €104–154 |
| Acoustic sealant strip | 12 m | €8–12 |
| Plasterboard screws (25 mm) | 1 box (500 pieces) | €8–12 |
| Scrim tape (90 mm) | 1 roll | €8–12 |
| Jointing compound / gypsum filler | 5 kg | €8–15 |
| Decorators’ caulk (acrylic) | 2 tubes | €8–14 |
| Mineral wool (insulation, optional) | 15 m² | €30–50 |
Step-by-Step Guide: Fitting Plasterboard
Step 1 — Mark Out and Set Out
Mark the wall line on the floor using a chalk line or marker. Transfer this line to the ceiling and both side walls using a spirit level or plumb bob. Check that the line is square to the adjacent walls.
Step 2 — Fix the UW Floor and Ceiling Tracks
Fix the UW50 floor track along the marked line using wall plugs and screws (one fixing every 60 cm). Do the same at the ceiling. Place acoustic sealant strip under the floor and ceiling tracks to reduce sound transmission — this makes a significant difference to impact noise.
Step 3 — Insert the CW Studs
Click the CW50 studs into the UW tracks at 600 mm centres (to suit the 1200 mm board width). Click the studs in without screwing them — they should be able to move slightly to accommodate structural movement. Always fix the first and last stud to the side wall or existing structure.
Step 4 — Run Services Through the Frame (Optional)
Route electrical cables, water pipes or other services through the frame now. This is the right time. Allow adequate space and use the correct conduit. Fit back boxes in the desired positions in the studs.
Step 5 — Install Insulation (Optional)
For sound insulation or thermal insulation: pack mineral wool or rockwool between the studs. Cut the wool to size so that it fits snugly without being compressed.
Step 6 — Fix the Plasterboard
Screw the plasterboard to the CW studs using plasterboard screws (25 mm), at 250 mm centres along the edges and 300 mm in the field. The screw head should be driven just below the surface — not too deep (or you will break through the face paper). Cut plasterboard to size with a trimming knife: score and snap. Where required, fix a vapour control layer behind the first layer of plasterboard (on external walls).
Step 7 — Finish the Joints
Bed scrim tape over all joints. Apply a first coat of jointing compound over the joints and fill the screw dimples. Leave to dry (2–4 hours). Sand smooth. Apply a second coat and feather out as wide as possible. Sand again after drying. Finish with a thin skim coat and sand with P120.
Step 8 — Seal the Perimeter
Apply decorators’ caulk along the floor, ceiling and side walls. Smooth with a wet finger. This also provides an acoustic and airtight seal around the wall.
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No acoustic strip under tracks | Sound transmission (knocking audible) | Always use acoustic sealant strip |
| Screws driven too deep | Face paper broken, less grip | Drive just below the surface |
| Joints not taped with scrim | Joints crack over time | Scrim tape is essential at all joints |
| Boards not supported at joints (joints in mid-air) | Weak joint, board bows | Joints must always fall on the centre of a stud |
| Standard plasterboard in bathroom | Board swells, wall fails | Use green moisture-resistant plasterboard |
Conclusion
Fitting plasterboard is a powerful and cost-effective way to transform your home. With a metal stud frame and plasterboard you can build a neat partition wall for €11–18 per m² in material costs. The key to a good result is in the finishing: take your time over filling and sanding the joints. The end result will then be indistinguishable from professional work.
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