Moisture is one of the most common causes of bathroom deterioration in Melbourne homes. Preventing damage begins with proper substrate selection and professional installation. HB Plaster provides expert wet area plasterboard installation for bathrooms, ensuites, laundries, and other moisture-prone spaces across Melbourne, ensuring long-term protection against water damage, mold, and structural failure.
Product Overview
Wet area plasterboard—often identified by its distinctive blue surface—is engineered to withstand humidity and direct moisture exposure. It forms the structural base beneath waterproofing systems and tile finishes, ensuring durability and compliance with Australian building standards.
Features
- Moisture-Resistant Core: A specially treated gypsum core resists water absorption and maintains strength under humid conditions.
- Water-Repellent Paper Facing: Dual-surfaced paper facings prevent moisture penetration into the board’s interior.
- Dimensional Stability: Designed to retain rigidity and shape even after years of exposure to temperature and humidity changes.
- Mold and Mildew Resistance: Additives inhibit bacterial and fungal growth, improving indoor air quality in wet environments.
Application
Australian Standards and Victorian building codes require moisture-resistant plasterboard in defined wet zones.
In bathrooms and laundries, HB Plaster installs compliant wet area boards for:
- Bathroom Zones: Within 1200mm of shower roses, bath edges, or water outlets.
- Showers and Enclosures: All walls and ceilings in direct water exposure zones.
- Bath Surrounds: Splash areas adjacent to bathtubs or spas.
- Laundries: Around washing machines, tubs, and drying spaces.
- Ensuites: Compact ensuite rooms in Melbourne homes, where condensation and humidity remain constant.
Our team has delivered compliant installations across Brunswick, Hawthorn, Toorak, and Coburg, ensuring every project aligns with building inspection requirements.
Installation
Wet area performance depends on correct system installation. HB Plaster follows a detailed, standards-compliant procedure for every project.
- Framing Inspection and Preparation – Frames are checked for spacing, load capacity, and moisture protection. Additional noggings are installed to support fixtures and tiles.
- Moisture Barrier Application – External walls are fitted with building wrap or sarking, and ventilation openings are verified to prevent condensation buildup.
- Board Installation – Boards are positioned vertically to minimise joint exposure, with corrosion-resistant fasteners and correct spacing. A 3–5mm floor clearance allows for waterproofing integration.
- Joint Treatment – Moisture-resistant compounds and fibreglass tape are applied, creating a smooth, durable substrate ready for membrane application.
This structured approach ensures both functional performance and compliance with AS 2589 (Gypsum Linings).
Waterproofing
Wet area plasterboard serves as the base for critical waterproofing systems. HB Plaster coordinates closely with waterproofing specialists to ensure compliance with AS 3740 (Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas).
- Surface Preparation: Substrates are smoothed for optimal membrane adhesion.
- Membrane Coverage: Applied continuously across joints, corners, and penetrations.
- Compliance Verification: Inspections are arranged before tiling, confirming waterproofing standards are met.
This integrated process ensures long-term water resistance for bathrooms and laundries in Fitzroy, Richmond, South Yarra, and surrounding areas.
Common Errors
Avoiding these issues ensures lasting protection:
- Using standard plasterboard instead of moisture-resistant board.
- Poor joint treatment leading to water ingress.
- Inappropriate screw selection or inadequate fixing.
- Insufficient ventilation planning.
- Incomplete waterproofing coordination between trades.
Correct specification and coordination are essential to prevent costly remediation later.
Cost Overview
Wet area installations cost more than standard plasterboard but deliver significantly greater durability and compliance assurance.
- Material Cost: $15–$25 per m².
- Professional Installation: $40–$65 per m² including labour and materials.
- Average Bathroom (2.5m × 2.5m): $1,200–$2,200 for complete wall and ceiling coverage.
- Ensuite Projects: $800–$1,500 depending on layout complexity.
Costs may increase for high ceilings, irregular wall designs, or combined waterproofing coordination.
Maintenance
When installed and maintained properly, wet area plasterboard can last over 25 years. Regular ventilation, functioning exhaust fans, and maintained tile grout prevent water intrusion. Renovating older Melbourne bathrooms using standard board should always include an upgrade to moisture-resistant products to ensure future protection and compliance.
HB Plaster combines technical accuracy with industry experience to deliver premium wet area installations across Melbourne. Our service includes:
- Certified installers familiar with NCC and AS standards.
- Integration with waterproofing and plumbing teams.
- Use of top-tier moisture-resistant materials.
- Proper ventilation planning and coordination.
- A five-year workmanship warranty on all installations.
Our expertise extends from heritage renovations in Carlton and Fitzroy to contemporary apartments in Malvern and South Yarra, each completed with precision and compliance assurance.
Protect your bathroom investment with certified wet area plasterboard installation. Contact HB Plaster today on 0413 822 448 or visit our website for a detailed consultation and no-obligation quote. Our Melbourne team provides complete wet area construction services—ensuring your bathroom, ensuite, or laundry remains durable, compliant, and mold-free for years to come.
