Plasterboard thickness guide (Australia): 10mm vs 13mm vs 16mm

If you’re trying to choose between 10mm plasterboard, 13mm plasterboard and thicker specialty boards, you’re not alone. The ‘right’ plasterboard thickness depends on where it’s being installed (walls vs ceilings), the framing spacing, and whether you need fire, moisture or acoustic performance.

This guide is written for Australian residential and light commercial jobs (WA/SA included) and is designed to help builders, apprentices and renovators make a confident choice.

Quick answer: which thickness should I use?

• 10mm plasterboard is commonly used on internal walls and some ceilings where framing and spans allow.
• 13mm plasterboard is often used when you need extra stiffness, better impact resistance, or for ceilings / wider spans (and many fire and acoustic products are 13mm+).
• 16mm+ specialty boards (or multi-layer systems) are typically chosen for higher performance requirements (fire/acoustic/impact) depending on the system specification.

10mm plasterboard: best uses

Best for: general internal walls, renovations, and areas where a lighter board helps with handling and install speed.

• Common for wall linings in bedrooms, living areas and hallways
• Good all-round option when you’re not chasing specialty performance

Shop: Plasterboard sheets

13mm plasterboard: best uses

Best for: ceilings, higher traffic areas, and projects where you want a more rigid feel and fewer ‘drummy’ walls.

• Often preferred for ceilings (depending on joist spacing and manufacturer guidelines)
• Common thickness for fire-rated plasterboard and acoustic plasterboard

Wet areas: don’t guess — use moisture-resistant plasterboard

Bathrooms, laundries and kitchens frequently require moisture-resistant plasterboard (and the right waterproofing system). If you’re lining wet areas, start here:

Moisture-resistant plasterboard

What else do you need for a clean finish?

Plasterboard is only one part of the system. For a professional finish, you’ll typically also need:

• Compounds & adhesives (taping + topping)
• Plasterboard screws & fixings
• Metal stud/track where required: Steel framing supplies

FAQ

Is 10mm or 13mm plasterboard better?

Neither is universally ‘better’. 10mm can be perfect for many internal walls. 13mm is often chosen for ceilings, better rigidity, and for specialty performance boards. Always check the manufacturer’s span tables and system specs.

What plasterboard is best for soundproofing?

Sound control is a system (board + insulation + resilient channels + sealing). Start by choosing an acoustic plasterboard and build the rest of the wall/ceiling system around the performance you need.

Need help choosing the right board?

If you’re ordering for a job in Perth/WA or Adelaide/SA and want a quick recommendation, contact us with what you’re building, the room type, and whether it’s walls or ceilings.