Last updated on February 17th, 2023
More often than not, we focus on the design of the ceiling we choose, ignoring crucial factors such as the material it is made from. The most popular materials used for fabricating your false ceiling are gypsum boards and plaster of Paris.
Gypsum, or calcium sulfate hydrate, is a natural mineral found in sedimentary rocks. This mineral can be made into a pliable substance that can be shaped and hardened. When gypsum is sandwiched in layers of paper, you get the gypsum board.
On the other hand, POP is formed from heated, semi-dehydrated gypsum. POP is a fine powder that sets very quickly. It is a popular material used for making false ceilings.
Are Gypsum and POP Similar?
Gypsum and POP have the following qualities in common. Take a look:
–They are lightweight, making them ideal for installation.
–They are both fire retardants.
–Gypsum and POP are heat-insulating.
To make an informed decision, it’s best to take a look at the pros and cons of both these materials.
Plaster of Paris or POP
You will find that POP is available in the market in powder form. This powder is mixed with water just before use. It sets very quickly and to give the POP strength, it is applied to the chicken mesh. This can be fixed to a metal framing system after it’s dried. POP is versatile and can be shaped easily before it hardens. After it sets, you get the desired shape.
What Are the Advantages of POP?
The advantages of POP are:
–It doesn’t crack easily and can be used to fill joints and cracks.
–It is very durable.
–It allows for a lot of flexibility and can be molded into various shapes, making it a product of choice for intricate designs.
–It’s suitable for delicately patterned cornices. It can also be used for etching effects.
–Once mixed with water, it’s easy to level and spread.
–Its adhesive qualities make it the perfect base for paint.
–It costs less than a gypsum board.
–There is consistency in the product as these are made in factories with precision.
A Look at the Disadvantages of POP
The disadvantages of POP are:
–Mixing POP on site is a very messy affair. It takes time and clearing up the dried POP can be bothersome.
–There is a lot of wastage during application as the material dries fast. This is one of the major setbacks.
–It’s not possible to do the installation work if the POP is damp or moist. This is especially a problem in the rainy season as there is a lot of humidity in the atmosphere. As such, you may waste a bit of time as the POP needs to be completely dry before it can be installed.
–The POP mixture has to be mixed with exact proportions. If the balance between the POP and water isn’t correct, the product will not be sturdy. It can crack or even shrink in size. If you want to use POP, it’s essential to find workmen with years of experience under their belt.
Gypsum False Ceiling
These prefabricated boards are easy to install, as all you need is a frame and screws. Opt for rust-proof frames for longevity.
What Are the Advantages of Gypsum Boards?
The advantages of gypsum boards are listed below:
—Gypsum boards can be installed easily, and apart from a bit of dust, no major cleaning is required.
–These boards come in large sizes, so there are fewer joints to deal with.
–They are factory-made and precise, making it easy to paint the surface.
–Consistent quality and precision are guaranteed.
Is There a Downside?
The disadvantages of gypsum boards are:
–You may need to break the whole ceiling, as partial repairs are not possible.
–There are chances of mold and fungus if moisture seeps in from the AC pipes or the roof.
–The material can warp with moisture.
–Over time, cracks may appear. This can be due to repair work of light fixtures.
Final Thoughts
Once you have a clear picture of what’s in store for you, you can decide on the material best suited for your needs. And if you are still confused or want to consider other false ceiling options, Homebliss will steer you in the right direction.
