UK DIY Cost Calculator
Plasterboard Calculator
Calculate how many plasterboard sheets you need for walls or ceilings, plus screws and scrim tape, and the material cost. Enter the area and your board size.
Your project
Estimate
Estimates are for guidance only. Coverage rates, pack sizes and prices vary by brand — always confirm quantities with your supplier before buying.
Boarding out a room
Plasterboard is sold by the sheet, most commonly 2400 x 1200mm covering 2.88 m². Dividing your total wall or ceiling area by the sheet size and rounding up gives the board count; adding waste covers the cuts around sockets, windows and corners. Ceilings usually need the smaller handling-friendly boards and more screws per board.
Screws and scrim
Fixings and joint scrim are cheap but essential. A box of drywall screws goes a long way, and self-adhesive scrim tape reinforces every joint before skimming or filling. Both are easy to underestimate on a big job, so the calculator sizes them from your area too.
Frequently asked questions
How many plasterboard sheets do I need?
Divide your area by the board coverage — a standard 2400x1200mm sheet covers 2.88 m² — then add waste for cuts. A 24 m² wall needs around 9 standard sheets with a 10% allowance.
What size plasterboard should I use?
Large 2400x1200mm boards are most economical for walls if you can handle them; smaller 1800x900mm boards are easier to lift solo and better for ceilings. The calculator supports both.
Do I need scrim tape?
Yes — self-adhesive scrim reinforces the joints between boards so they don't crack when filled or skimmed. It's inexpensive and included in the total here.
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