Delivering a flawless ceiling is about more than what you see on the surface, it comes down to smart choices made well before the first sheet is installed. With expectations for smooth, high-end finishes continuing to rise across New Zealand, builders and installers are looking for systems that perform, last, and reduce call backs. The good news is that achieving a straighter, stronger, more reliable ceiling is completely within reach. 
 

Start Strong, Choose the Right Plasterboard 

One of the biggest improvements you can make is upgrading to 13mm GIB® plasterboard. It offers noticeably greater rigidity than 10mm, which means: 

And here’s the real advantage, despite being thicker, 13mm often delivers similar overall project costs once you factor in reduced battens and labour efficiencies. 
 

Stable Substrate, Superior Results 

Timber battens can move with moisture and temperature changes, and that movement shows up as cracks, pops, and peaking. Switching to GIB® Rondo® metal ceiling battens reduces that risk. They do not absorb moisture, they stay straight, and they create a consistent, reliable fixing surface. 
 

Spacing That Works, Not Just on Paper 

Industry testing and AS/NZS 2589:2017 are clear about framing requirements for gypsum linings. Framing that directly supports plasterboard should be set at a maximum of 600 mm centres, with 10 mm standard grade ceiling plasterboard limited to 450 mm centres. In practice, the industry consistently recommends 13 mm ceiling linings at 600 mm centres and 10 mm at 450 mm centres to minimise sag and deliver a better finished result. 

Cost Effective Without Cutting Corners 

Using 13mm GIB® plasterboard with 600mm centres reduces the number of battens and fasteners required. The savings in materials and labour typically offset the slightly higher board cost, meaning you get a higher performing ceiling at a similar or even lower total cost. 

Seven Essentials for a Quality Ceiling 

From the Best Practice Series, these points consistently separate good ceilings from great ones: 

Want more information about best practises for high quality ceiling installation, click here.