Many people overlook perforated gypsum board because they don’t understand its acoustic benefits.
Perforated gypsum board is used to improve room sound quality by absorbing echoes and reducing noise transmission.
Perforated gypsum board, also called perforated plasterboard or decorative perforated ceiling panel, has evenly spaced holes across its surface. These holes control sound by breaking up reflections and allowing sound waves to pass through to an absorbing layer behind the board. It is ideal for spaces like auditoriums, classrooms, recording studios, and conference halls. Beyond technical performance, perforations create a distinctive visual texture for ceilings and walls, adding design interest while maintaining performance.
What are the four types of gypsum board?
Choosing the wrong gypsum board can harm both safety and comfort in a space.
The four main types are standard gypsum board, moisture-resistant gypsum board, fire-rated gypsum board, and acoustic gypsum board.
Standard gypsum boards work for most wall and ceiling applications in dry areas. Moisture-resistant boards include a treated core and paper facing that resist moisture absorption, making them suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. Fire-rated boards have glass fiber added to the core to slow structural failure during fire exposure. Acoustic gypsum boards, which include perforated variations, are designed to reduce echo and noise levels. Some projects even mix types to achieve both durability and performance goals.
| Type | Key Feature | Common Use Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Standard gypsum board | Basic wall/ceiling finish | Living rooms, offices |
| Moisture-resistant board | Resists water damage | Kitchens, bathrooms |
| Fire-rated gypsum board | Improves fire protection | Exit corridors, fire-rated walls |
| Acoustic/perforated board | Reduces noise, adds texture | Theaters, classrooms, meeting rooms |
What is perforated plasterboard?
Some designers confuse perforated plasterboard with decorative panels.
Perforated plasterboard is a gypsum-based panel with holes designed to manage sound and provide decorative appeal.
Perforated plasterboard is made like regular gypsum board but has a patterned set of holes—round, square, linear, or irregular. The perforations typically cover 15–23% of the surface area, striking a balance between strength and acoustic performance. A sound-absorbing fabric backing is often added to enhance its ability to absorb mid and high-frequency sounds. Architects use it for both ceilings and walls in projects that demand acoustic comfort and a visually unique finish. Selecting the right perforation pattern can fine-tune noise reduction while complementing the room’s design style.
| Perforation Pattern | Typical Use | Acoustic Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Round holes | General acoustic improvement | Balanced sound absorption |
| Square holes | Modern interior style | Slightly sharper sound diffusion |
| Linear slots | Spaces needing directional diffusion | Targeted echo reduction |
| Irregular shapes | Custom decorative projects | Variable absorption and diffusion mix |
What is the thickness of pop gypsum board?
When thickness is wrong, boards may lose strength or be hard to work with.
Standard POP gypsum board thickness ranges from 9.5 mm to 15 mm; perforated acoustic boards are usually 12.5 mm or 15 mm.
POP (Plaster of Paris) gypsum boards used for ceilings or partitions come in several thicknesses. Thinner boards around 9.5 mm are easier to install in light-duty ceilings but have less structural strength. For perforated boards, 12.5 mm provides balance between sturdiness and ease of installation, while 15 mm gives extra rigidity for large panel spans and heavy acoustic backing. Thicker boards can improve durability and sometimes acoustic performance, but they add weight and may raise installation costs. Choosing thickness depends on the span, load, and acoustic goals.
| Board Type | Common Thicknesses | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard POP board | 9.5 mm, 12.5 mm | Ceilings, partitions |
| Perforated acoustic board | 12.5 mm, 15 mm | Acoustic walls, decorative ceilings |
Conclusion
Perforated gypsum boards blend sound control with visual design, and picking the right type, pattern, and thickness ensures both performance and longevity.