6.

0 JOINTING AND FINISHING SYSTEMS

Jointing and finishing of GIB® plasterboard is to be Note: The use of correct GIB® materials and
as per instructions to meet requirements of practices is critical to delivering adequate joint
AS/NZS 2589:2017. strength and resistance to cracking which in
turn contributes to the performance of GIB®
This section covers the basics of joint construction plasterboard bracing systems.
and finishing.
For details on the full GIB® compound and
accessory range refer to p. 19–24.

6.1 JOINTING – MATERIALS

GIB® Jointing Tapes GIB® Jointing Tapes
GIB® Paper Tape provides reinforcing and
resistance to joint cracking. It is pre-creased for
use in internal corners. The rougher side of the
tape must face the wall surface when bedded in to
the jointing compound.
GIB RocTape® is a fibreglass mesh tape suitable
for flat joints.
Jointing Compounds.
There are two general types of jointing compound:
Plaster Based Jointing Compounds
Plaster Based (Setting Compounds)
These compounds are powders based on plaster
of paris. They have a specific working time before
they start to set and harden when mixed with
water in the recommended ratio.
Once the set time is reached, the product begins
to harden as a result of chemical reaction between
the plaster with water.
Plaster based compounds are mixed on
site, enabling viscosity to be adjusted as
it’s mixed so that it’s suitable for the chosen
application method.
Product examples: GIB Tradeset® range (different
set times), GIB Lite Blue® and GIB MaxSet®. Refer
to p. 19–21 for details.
Air Drying Compounds Air Drying Jointing Compounds
These compounds are pre-mixed pastes and
are ready to use direct from their pails. They do
not set but rather rely on evaporation of water to
enable their polymer binder to cure.
These products are generally formulated to
be softer and easier to sand, so are normally
used for the third or top coat. Some air drying
compounds are designed as multi-purpose so
they can be used for all three coats. Please
consult p. 19–21 before using a three-coat air
drying compound system.

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Product examples: GIB Trade Finish® range (Heavy Refer to p. 19–21 for details of each compound’s
Weight, Multi, Lite and Extra Lite), GIB Plus 4® or performance.
GIB Redifilla® range.

Introduction
6.2 DETERMINING HOW MUCH YOU NEED
The table below gives the approximate usage and the actual thickness at which the product is
rates for some joint compounds. These figures are applied.
approximate and will vary depending on wastage

APPROXIMATE COVERAGE OF JOINT COMPOUNDS

Product Range
Coverage in lineal metres per package size
2 coats (taping plus second coat)
GIB Tradeset® 200m (per 20kg bag)
GIB MaxSet ®
260m (per 20kg bag)

Pre-Installation
GIB X-Block® 90m (per 25kg bag)
Second coat only
GIB Lite Blue® 330m (per 17.5kg bag)
Top coat only
GIB Plus 4® 75m (per 15L pail)

General Installation
GIB Trade Finish® Heavy 70m (per 15L pail)
GIB Trade Finish® Multi 75m (per 15L pail)
GIB Trade Finish Lite ®
75m (per 15L pail)
GIB Trade Finish® Extra Lite 75m (per 15L pail)

GIB® Performance Systems

GIB U-Mix Finishing Compound
®
375m (per 20kg bag)
All three coats (taping plus two coats)
GIB Plus 4® 50m (per 15L pail)
GIB Trade Finish® Multi 50m (per 15L pail)

Finishing & Jointing Systems

GIB Trade Finish® Lite 50m (per 15L pail)
GIB Trade Finish Extra Lite
®
50m (per 15L pail)

*Skim coat at 1mm thick yields approximately 10m2 per kg.

Note: These are estimated quantities, and can vary significantly due
to site conditions and fixing practices. They are intended as a rough
guide and should not be used for quoting purposes.
Repairs & Maintenance
Trouble Shooting

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6.3 WEATHER AND VENTILATION
Weather Conditions Hot Weather
Understanding the part that weather conditions This may be defined as ‘any part of the job
play in joint construction is critical for the creation of and/or the air around the area of stopping with
trouble free joints. a temperature at, or above, 25ºC’.
Cool Weather In these conditions we recommend the use of GIB
In cool weather the rate of drying drops dramatically Tradeset® 90 or shorter set products such as GIB
so achieving a dry coating in a commercially Tradeset® 45. Air drying compounds tend to be
acceptable time becomes an issue. Under these good in hot weather and dry out reasonably quickly.
conditions a thick coating of air drying compound
also results in longer drying times, so most Rooms that heat up to this extent during the
stoppers use a setting compound for the first and morning should be taped in early so that the
second coats followed by a thin top coat of an air compound has a chance to fully set.
drying compound. Digital thermometers are readily available at
As the overall amount of drying is diminished under hardware stores, to accurately measure surface
cool weather conditions, it is wise to use a harder and air temperatures on site for more informed
sanding finishing compound such as GIB Trade decision making.
Finish® Multi, or GIB Trade Finish® Heavy which will Ventilation and Air Drying
sand with less risk of scratching or “swirling”.
Winstone Wallboards recommends:
In cold weather, issues such as partial freezing
—— At least one window be opened at either
of the mixing water can result in poor feathered
end of the building. Even in wet weather
edge adhesion. Do not use below the minimum
this will allow airchanges and some drying
temperature stated on the bag or pail. The biggest
throughout the building. The exception to
issue here is the speed of drying of plaster. If it
this would be fog and continual rain. In
has not dried before the next coat is applied, it will
colder weather these air changes are even
shrink, and the result can be delayed shrinkage and
more critical as the air carries less moisture
hollow joints.
—— If the building is locked shut with no air
To minimise the above issues, the building needs a movement the air will dry the joints until
source of heating. One option is placement of one such time it has reached 100% humidity
2kW fan heater every 50m2 of floor area. This will and then the drying process will stop
create slight air movement and take the chill off the
air, thereby creating conditions more favourable to
drying at a reasonable rate. These provide a gentle
uniform heating effect. Always check with the main
building contractor before doing this. Check the
heater has a thermal overload and always remove
all possible sources of combustion (bits of paper
etc.) before using.
Try to avoid going above 18–20ºC in any individual
room in the building. Rapid drying through
excessive heat can cause popping or movement of
fasteners and joints.
Note: It is not a good idea to use air drying
compounds for all coats in winter in an unheated
building. Shrinkage will result if each coat has not
dried properly, and the ability to dry in a reasonable
time is significantly diminished in this situation.

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 Examples of Relative Humidity (RH) in New Zealand Homes
Averages
Average ambient humidity (approx.) = 70% RH

Introduction
At 70% RH the moisture air can carry = 30% moisture
Air temp RH Moisture air can carry
10ºC 70% = 2.7g /m3
20ºC 70% = 5.1g /m3
Typical house example

Product Range
Floor Area = 190m2
Cubic volume = 450m3 (approx.)
Plaster used on house (approx.) = 100kg
Water required to mix plaster (approx.) = 66ltrs

Pre-Installation
Water naturally retained in plaster (approx.) = 10ltrs
Water to be evaporated from plaster (approx.) = 56ltrs
Example #1 – House temp 10C and RH 70%
House volume multiplied by 450m3 x 2.7g/m3 = 1.21kg

General Installation
Moisture the air can carry = At 10ºC/ 70% RH the maximum moisture the
air inside this house can hold is 1.21kg
Example #2 – House temp 20C and RH 70%
House volume multiplied by 450m3 x 5.1g/m = 2.30kg

GIB® Performance Systems

Moisture the air can carry = At 20ºC/ 70% RH the maximum moisture the
air inside this house can hold is 2.30kg
Conclusion
At 20ºC / 70%RH it will take 24 complete air changes to remove the 56ltrs of moisture in this house.
However at 10ºC / 70%RH it will take even longer requiring 46 complete air changes.

Finishing & Jointing Systems

Setting Compounds Air Drying
Plaster based compounds are generally used for To provide better plasterboard surface finish
the base and the second coats of a plasterboard quality, sandable air drying compounds are
jointing system. used as the top coat on jointing systems. Some
air drying compounds such as GIB Plus 4® are
When the setting compound is mixed with designed as multi-purpose and can be used for
water it forms a paste which can be trowelled to each coat in the entire joint system.
form smooth flat joints and which subsequently
Repairs & Maintenance

sets hard. Air drying compounds contain powdered mineral

fillers held together with a polymer binder (or
Plaster requires a specific amount of water to fully glue) in a water emulsion. After applying air drying
set. In hot weather the mixed compound can dry compound to a plasterboard surface, the water
and the water content can drop below this amount needs to evaporate to create a solid mass. This
before it starts to set. The longer the compound’s hardening, unlike setting compounds, is directly
set time, the more likely it can dry too much before related to the speed (and temperature) at which
it sets. When dry, the end result can be a “soft” or the compound dries out. In winter with poor drying
“weak” bedding compound, poor tape adhesion conditions, these products can take a very
Trouble Shooting

and poor resistance to cracking.

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long time to thoroughly dry to a point where they If the compound dries below this minimum
are sandable. If it has not dried in total before temperature, the end result is likely to be a
painting, the product can shrink. much softer compound, that scratches readily
when sanded, has poor adhesion to underlying
A minimum temperature is also required in order compounds and poor paint adhesion properties.
to form a film to bind the compound together.
In most cases the minimum air and compound
temperature for satisfactory application and
performance of air drying compounds is 10°C.

Approximate Drying Times for Air Drying and Setting Compounds

Relative Temperature
Humidity 10˚ C 16˚ C 21˚ C 27˚ C 32˚ C
98% 26 days 18 days 12 days 9 days 6 days
94% 10 days 7 days 5 days 3 days 2 days
90% 6 days 4 days 3 days 49 hrs 36 hrs
80% 3 days 2 days 38 hrs 27 hrs 19 hrs
60% 42 hrs 29 hrs 20 hrs 14 hrs 10 hrs
40% 29 hrs 20 hrs 14 hrs 10 hrs 7 hrs

Indicates common weather conditions in New Zealand.

Based on 1.5mm–2mm thickness of wet compound.

Drying And Shrinkage Setting compounds can shrink by 8-9% with

At the time of usage all jointing compounds will around half of their shrinkage occurring between
contain water. As the excess water evaporates application and setting. The rest of the shrinkage
from the compound, varying degrees of shrinkage occurs during the drying process and after setting.
occurs depending on the type of compound. Setting compounds are typically used for the base
coats and often are up to 1.4mm deep. Whilst the
Shrinkage is one of the more common failures shrinkage percentage may be lower, the thicker
seen and is usually the result of a coat of jointing amount means the actual amount of shrinkage
compound not being adequately dried before the can be noticeable.
next is applied. It is avoidable however!
When all is considered the shrinkage that can
In general, air drying compounds shrink far more occur if a coat is not dry before the next coat is
than plaster based compounds generally between applied is in the order of 0.2mm-0.35mm. These
15-25%. As air drying compounds are typically are tiny figures, however are detectable on a
applied quite thin, shrinkage does not tend to generally flat wall and quite obvious in critical or
detract from the overall joint shape. glancing light conditions.

6.4 IDENTIFYING PRODUCT USE BY DATES

5kg Bags and Pails GIB® and Victor Bags

Use by date Use by date

Batch number Batch number

Note: The performance of GIB® and Victor compound products may be compromised if used after the date indicated.

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6.5 STOPPING OF TAPERED OR RECESSED EDGE JOINTS – HAND TOOLS
These are the joints where the two tapered
(recessed) edges of plasterboard meet.
Surface Preparation Surface Preparation

Introduction
—— Ensure that all fixings, screws or nails,
are seated just below the surface of the
plasterboard. Any fixings that are driven too
far into the plasterboard will cut the paper
of the board causing problems such as
‘popping’ or ‘dimpling’

Product Range
—— Remove any dust or loose material from the
plasterboard
Mixing Instructions
—— Mixing instructions for GIB® compounds can
be found on the back of the bag or pail
—— If hand mixing, it is better to initially mix a
setting compound too thick than too thin and

Pre-Installation
add water to adjust. Adding more powder to
a thin mixture tends to create lumps that are
difficult to mix in by hand
—— If machine mixing with a paddle and drill, use
a paddle with vertical sides
—— Use a slow speed drill. If possible ensure the

General Installation
entire mixing part of the blade is under the
compound whilst it is mixing. This reduces the
amount of air stirred in to the product, which
in turn reduces the incidence of ‘pock marks’
and ‘pin holes’

GIB® Performance Systems

Tips Mixing Compounds
—— Paint mixing blades are not recommended
(identified by the mixing part which looks like
two flat wide curved ribbons). These work well
in paint, but tend to mix a lot of air into the
(thicker) jointing compounds
—— A large battery drill is perfect for slow speed

Finishing & Jointing Systems

mixing, with less introduction of air to the mix
compared to most relatively high speed mains
power drills
Repairs & Maintenance
Trouble Shooting

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6.6 JOINTING TECHNIQUES – HAND TOOLS

Tools Required
Some or all of the following tools will be required
depending on the work being carried out.
—— Rubber Spatula, or similar, for mixing plaster
—— Plastic Pail
—— 75mm Chamfered Broad-knife
—— 100mm Chamfered Broad-knife
—— 150mm Broad-knife
—— 200mm Trowel (Optional)
—— 280mm Trowel
—— Sanding Float
—— Corner Trowel
—— Dust Mask
All tools must be clean and free of any old/set
plaster. Remember that as these tools are being
used to create a smooth finish, any kinks or
scratches in the edge of the tool will cause rough
areas in the plaster. To preserve edges, do not use
broad-knifes for opening paint cans, etc.

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 First (Taping) Coat
Using a 150mm broad-knife, fill the recess formed
by the edges of the sheets with GIB® jointing
compound.

Introduction
Centre the GIB® tape along the joint and using a
150mm broad-knife press the tape down into the
GIB® compound.
GIB® Paper Joint Tape has two distinct sides.
The rougher side, facing out on the roll, is

Product Range
bedded into the compound toward the wall
surface. GIB® Paper Joint Tape can be folded for
use in internal corners.
GIB RocTape® is installed similar to paper joint tape
on flat joints but is not recommended for corner
joints.

Pre-Installation
Draw the broad-knife (held at approximately 45
degrees to the board surface), along the joint to
remove any trapped air bubbles beneath the tape.
Ensure that sufficient compound is left behind the
tape to achieve a good bond.

General Installation
Immediately apply a thin coat of compound over
the surface of the tape. This reduces the possibility
of the tape curling and wrinkling, which can lead
to edge cracking.
When the compound is set, scrape back any

GIB® Performance Systems

build-up of compound along the joint.
Allow this coat to dry.

Finishing & Jointing Systems

Second Coat
Apply a second coat of jointing compound with
a trowel. Ensure that this coat extends at least
25mm beyond the edge of the first coat.
Repairs & Maintenance

Feather the joints to eliminate build-up of the

compound at the edges.
Allow to thoroughly dry (at least 24 hours) and
scrape back any build-up of compound along
the joint.
If a sandable second coat is desired: use GIB Lite
Blue®, an easy sanding plaster-based compound
Trouble Shooting

with a 90 minute set time, developed for second

coating.

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 Top Or Finishing Coat
Apply a finishing coat of GIB® Air Drying
compound with a 280mm trowel. Joint edges
should be feathered at least 25mm beyond the
edges of the previous coat. Allow at least 24
hours to dry.
Using 220 grit sand paper (or finer sandpaper),
lightly sand in the same direction as the joint.
Take care not to scuff the face paper of the GIB®
plasterboard when sanding the joint.

Tip: The finishing compound should not be harder

to sand than the second coat. Refer to p. 98

6.7 STOPPING OF END JOINTS / BUTT JOINTS AND CUT EDGES – HAND TOOLS

End Joints / Butt Joints And Cut Edges

—— Where possible ensure the plasterboard
sheets are fixed so that the butt joint sits
mid span and not on framing. If the board is
already fixed, use the technique described on
p. 47 (where possible) to ensure a joint recess
is created
—— When jointing two cut edges or sheet ends
which are not recessed, care must be taken
to ensure the surface build-up of compound
is minimised (whilst still creating a strong joint)
—— The same procedure should be followed for
tapered edge joints, except that the width
GIB®
of each stage is double that required for the tape
1st coat
tapered edge method. This results in a joint 300mm wide
that is around 600mm wide 2nd coat
—— Use GIB Tradeset® 45 for the first coat and 400mm wide
tape in
—— Take extra care when bedding in the tape
to ensure that sufficient compound remains 3rd coat
behind the tape 600mm wide
—— Blending the resultant “bump” from stopping
on an un-recessed surface is an issue,
especially where critical light comes into play.
The wider the joint is, the less the angle it
presents to the critical light, so it is less likely
that a shadow will show on the side of the
joint opposite the light source

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6.8 JOINTING TECHNIQUES – MECHANICAL TOOLS
The mechanical tools referenced in this guide Mechanical Stopping With Banjo And Box
are for representative purposes only and do A Banjo taping tool applies bedding compound
not preclude the use of alternatives. These and tape in one step and is an efficient method for

Introduction
include pneumatic taping machines and spring taping-in of medium/large areas of plasterboard
loaded flat boxes. All tools must be used in strict walls or ceilings.
accordance with the relevant manufacturer’s
recommendations. Note: This device places the tape on top of a
layer of plaster, the depth of which is not easily
Tools Include controlled. Be aware that lack of compound under
Banjo – a taping tool containing a roll of jointing the tape can cause tape adhesion issues.

Product Range
tape and compound which simultaneously applies
the jointing tape and compound to a joint. Always place the banjo on the maximum setting
when applying the compound in warm / hot
Automatic Taping tool – a more sophisticated weather.
taping tool which has better control of the depth
of material under the tape and so is a more
reliable tool for ensuring good tape adhesion in

Pre-Installation
hot weather. However, as they can be expensive
and difficult to clean, these tools do not lend
themselves to applying setting compounds, and
consequently are seldom seen in NZ.
Box – a box shaped metal vessel with a slot at
the top and adjustable wiping surface to control

General Installation
the flow to the joint, and the shape of the joint.
Available in different widths for the different coats
of the joint and handles to suit the operator.
Corner Finishing Tools – can apply joint
compound to internal corners.

GIB® Performance Systems

Preparation
—— Ensure that all fixings, screws or nails
are seated just below the surface of the
plasterboard. Any fixings that are driven too
far into the plasterboard will cut the paper
of the board causing problems such as

Finishing & Jointing Systems

‘popping’
—— Tidy up any damaged areas of plasterboard
such as broken corners. It is usually easier to
remove these completely and fill them with
a plaster based (setting) compound prior to
continuing
—— Remove any dust or loose material from the
plasterboard
Repairs & Maintenance

—— Mixing instructions can be found on the back

of the compound packaging
Refer to p. 83 for mixing detail.
Trouble Shooting

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 First Coat – Banjo
—— Mix the bedding compound with a drill and then
carefully adjust the water content until it can just be
poured from one bucket to another
Note: if the compound is too thin, the tape will tend to
slide along the recess and may peel or drop out.
—— Place and lock the roll of GIB® tape onto the
spindle and thread inside the banjo and along the
top (handle) inside edge as illustrated. Pour the
compound into the banjo cavity underneath the
GIB® tape. Close and clip the side panel
—— Place the coated tape centrally in the joint. Hold the
tape with one hand whilst pulling the banjo along the
joint with the other hand (make sure that the nose of
the banjo is held against the surface of the joint)
—— Adjust the banjo control knob so that a layer of
approximately 2mm thick of compound is on
the underside of the tape and is not excessively
squeezed out from the edge of the tape when applied
—— After placing the tape at the end of a joint, cut the
tape neatly with a broad-knife
—— Using a 150mm broad-knife held at about 45
degrees, press the tape down into the compound
and at the same time removing excess compound
—— When the compound is set (or dry) scrape back
any ridges
Note: Do not allow setting compounds to set in the banjo.

Second Coat – Flat Box

The flat boxes used for second coating of tapered joints
are typically 200mm-250mm wide. They automatically
dispense the correct amount of joint compound and
feather the edges in one pass. The adjustable blade
holder fine tunes the ‘crown’ for proper compound
distribution and shape. The boxes are controlled by a
specially designed handle.
To start, place the adjustable notch for the wiper blade
on the second lowest setting and then adjust to suit
the job. The advantage of using flat boxes for tapered
joints is the speed with which joints can be filled. They
generally will not require any further touch-up if set up
and operated correctly.
—— Mix the compound with a drill and adjust to a
‘pourable consistency’, i.e. requires a minimal effort
to ‘push’ out of the box but not so thin that it will
‘run’ out of the box, or slump on the wall during use
—— Using a scoop, broad-knife, or pump; fill the flat
boxes with compound
—— Place the box on the surface of the board as flat as
possible. Place one hand just below the head of the
box handle (to control application pressure to force
compound out of the box) and the other hand at the
other end (to control the ‘brake’ and keep the box
running parallel to the joint)
—— Allow the compound to dry thoroughly before
scraping back any ridges or build up
Note: Do not allow setting compounds to set or air-
drying compound to dry in the flat box.

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 Top Or Finishing Coat – Flat Box
A 300mm flat box is typically used with specifically
formulated air-drying finishing/topping compounds
for the top/finishing coat.

Introduction
The air drying compound should be thoroughly
mixed and if necessary, the consistency adjusted
to give a smooth ‘tear free’ finish (but not so thin
that it will ‘run’ out of the box during use).
The ‘setting’ of the flat box is typically two notches

Product Range
above the bottom setting. However, adjustment
may be necessary.
The box is adjusted and operated to leave a
very smooth surface free from lumps, ridges or
scratches.
Note: Don’t allow air-drying compound to dry in

Pre-Installation
the flat box. Placing too much compound in one
application may result in bubbles, pin holes, and
streaks.
Please read notes below to understand some
of the issues that can be created by the use of
machine tools.

General Installation
Possible Issues With Machine Tool Application 3. Placing tapes with an automatic taping tool
1. When using machine tools, the compounds is quick and easy. However it is very easy to
placed in them have to be diluted (compared force too much compound from under the
with that required for trowel application) to tape. This can result in poor tape adhesion in

GIB® Performance Systems

achieve a viscosity that flows readily through summer, as the compound can dry out more
the machine. quickly. In extreme situations this can lead to
2. The addition of water will result in: the plaster in the compound not being able
—— Greater Shrinkage as the compound dries to set. Be aware and check material depth
—— Longer Drying Time due to a greater when starting (to ensure the machine set up
amount of water to dry and methods of use are appropriate).
—— Possibility of Delayed Shrinkage as 4. Horizontally fixed board not supported with

Finishing & Jointing Systems

more water soaks into the substrate (then framing adjacent to the joint, can result in a
has to dry back through the joint) variation in the depth of the taper between
Longer drying times in cooler conditions must the two boards. Machine tools can easily
be allowed for before the next coat is applied. place a thin layer on only one edge (this can
Delayed shrinkage may occur if the next coat result in tape adhesion issues).
is applied before the first has dried. Make
allowances for this, by warming the rooms to
Repairs & Maintenance

be stopped until the joints are dry.

Trouble Shooting

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6.9 NAIL AND SCREW STOPPING
If good fixing practice has been followed, Non-critical light areas
there should be no fixings in the middle of the —— For the first coat, wipe the compound
plasterboard sheet on the wall. However, this across the top of the screw or nail head,
cannot be avoided on ceilings or in fire rated or as per normal towelling application. Use a
noise control systems. 100mm broad-knife for the first two coats of
compound
Critical light areas —— Do the second and third coats as per normal
This method takes longer, but ensures that no jointing procedure
air is trapped between the screw or nail head
and the first coat of compound. This reduces the For either method, leave the first two coats to dry
possibility of dimpling. for at least 24 hours before applying the finishing
—— For the first coat, press a mixed GIB® plaster coat with a 150mm broad-knife. Leave to dry for
based compound into the fastener indentation at least 24 hours and then lightly sand with 220
with a 25mm putty knife, then wipe off the grit sandpaper.
excess For over-driven screws, use a short set time
—— Do the second and third coats as per the setting compound to minimise the time and
normal jointing procedure amount of water that can soak in and swell the
board paper. Leave for a longer period to dry
compared to normal screw stopping. These
actions may reduce the incidence of “popping” or
“dimpling” on these surfaces.

6.10 CORNERS AND FINISHING TRIMS

External Corners Internal Metal Corner Trims
These can be finished with: Inside corners are installed similarly to outside
corners except that only one top coat of a GIB®
Paper Faced Trims finishing compound is required. A corner trowel
—— GIB® Goldline® profiled paper faced trims may be used to apply and smooth the compound
—— GIB® UltraFlex® high impact reinforced corner if desired.
trims
—— GIB® Levelline® reinforced corner trims Apply similar installation methods for the other
Metal Trims metal trims. Casing beads can be secured using
—— GIB® Slim Angle metal trims GIBFix® adhesive.

GIB® Slim Angle Note: Bullnose external corners are not permitted
—— Mechanically fix at 100mm centres on alternate in fire rated systems.
sides of the corner (fixings should also be
placed on both sides at each end of the trim)
—— GIB® Slim Angle can be fixed with GIB®
Grabber® screws or staples (minimum 10mm)
—— Apply a first coat of GIB® setting compound,
using a 150mm broad-knife or 200mm trowel
—— When hard, lightly scrape back using a broad-
knife or the edge of a trowel
—— Apply a second coat of GIB® setting
compound using a 200mm trowel. When hard,
lightly scrape back
—— Apply a third coat of a GIB® air drying topping
compound using a 300mm trowel and leave
to dry
—— When thoroughly dry, lightly sand in the
direction of the joint with 220 grit or finer
sandpaper, taking care not to scuff surface
paper of the plasterboard

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 Paper Faced Trims
—— Paper faced trims such as GIB® Goldline® Platinum External Corner
Tape-on trims, GIB® UltraFlex® and GIB® Levelline™ are
installed by embedding directly into the joint compound

Introduction
—— A slightly thinned mix of a GIB® setting compound is
recommended for the installation of paper faced trims
because they provide maximum adhesion to the paper
surface of these trims 75mm wide band
—— When installing external Bullnose Corners, check of GIB Tradeset®
or GIB MaxSet®
that the plasterboard edges do not extend past the
corner of the framing substrate on either side. If the

Product Range
plasterboard edges do protrude, trim them back before External Corner
commencing installation
—— Make sure that products such as GIB® UltraFlex® are
fully supported by the two plasterboards neatly butted
up to each other. Otherwise a void is left behind the
trim, which will become a weak/fail point if the corner is
impacted at some point during its life Paper faced trim
—— Apply a 75mm wide band of GIB Tradeset® or GIB embedded into

Pre-Installation
MaxSet® to each side of the GIB® plasterboard corner compound

—— Cut trim to required length and position over the joint

compound. Allow 10mm at the bottom for expansion External Corner
and contraction of framing members. Mitre any corners
which will be meeting other trims at corners
—— Press the trim firmly into the compound evenly along
its full length, embedding the trim and forcing out

General Installation
excess compound. The installation of the trim may be
performed with the aid of a corner roller. It is crucial 2 x GIB®
an adequate amount of compound remains under the compound
tape for good adhesion top coats

—— Using a 100mm broad-knife, wipe off surplus

compound and eliminate all air bubbles under the Internal Corner

GIB® Performance Systems

paper. Be careful not to remove all compound
—— Using additional compound, flush the joint with a
150mm broad-knife or trowel. Remove any excess
jointing compound on the nose of the trim by wiping
with a damp sponge
—— Allow to harden and dry, then apply a light top coat of 75mm wide band
GIB® air dry compound (in a band of about 200mm of GIB Tradeset®
wide). This is done using a large (250–300mm wide) or GIB MaxSet®

Finishing & Jointing Systems

broad-knife or trowel
—— Feather the compound by drawing the knife along the Internal Corner
trim, with one edge of the blade riding on the nose
of the trim and the other on the surface of the GIB®
plasterboard
—— Repeat for the other side of the trim and allow to dry
—— Once the previous coat is dry, apply a second top coat
of GIB® finishing compound. Feather the edges of each Paper faced trim
Repairs & Maintenance

embedded into
coat about 50mm beyond the preceding coat. When
compound
the top coat is completely dry, lightly sand, taking care
not to scuff the face paper of the GIB® plasterboard

Tips: Internal Corner

—— Multi purpose air drying compounds may be used
to adhere GIB® UltraFlex® and GIB® Levelline® trims,
however they may take a long time to dry
—— Generally air drying compounds have a higher
shrinkage. Filling of any voids behind tapes with GIB®
Trouble Shooting

compound
air drying compounds is not recommended, voids
top coat
should be filled with setting compounds

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6.11 NEGATIVE DETAIL
Note: Allow a 14mm–17mm gap for the top
Negative details can be formed at plane junctions
flange of the GIB® Goldline® Platinum trim or
and at junctions between dissimilar building
a 12mm gap for the Rondo® P50 metal reveal
materials. There are many different effects that
trim
can be achieved and some suggestions are
shown below.
Negative Detail
—— GIB® Goldline® Platinum GR reveals, or the
GIB® Rondo® P50 metal reveals, can be used 1
to create straight, evenly spaced details that
clearly define the junction
—— Care needs to be taken to ensure that joints 2
2
are straight and that adequate clearance is
provided for the flange of the reveal trim
3

1 2 3

GIB® plasterboard
GIB® plasterboard

Door or window jamb

Additional nog may
be required to meet
sheet edge fastening
requirements

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6.12 GIB-COVE®

Preparation
—— Always fix GIB-Cove® prior to skim coating or

Introduction
any paint application
—— Ensure that all joints that are not to be
covered with GIB-Cove® are stopped first. For
accurate placement of GIB-Cove®, mark walls
with a chalk line (either 50mm, 55mm, 75mm
or 90mm) from the wall/ceiling angle. Measure

Product Range
and cut the GIB-Cove®, using a fine toothed
saw and a mitre box. Tidy the cut edges using
sandpaper
—— If cove work has not been done before, it is
suggested that slight over-ordering is done so
a short length is available to practice cutting
the angles up the right way

Pre-Installation
—— It is also suggested that a chalk line be used
around the room to establish the correct
position on the wall for the bottom of the
GIB-Cove®
—— Measure the GIB-Cove® to get the correct
measurement for the chalk line set up. Do

General Installation
this by placing a straight edge from each
edge of the cove, and measuring the length
to where they bisect. Use this measure as
the chalk line datum
—— Align the cove on the chalk line to ensure all
the cove is installed at the same level

GIB® Performance Systems

—— Joints in long runs of GIB-Cove® should be
mitred (not square cut)
—— Mix GIB-Cove® Bond to instructions on the
back of the bag

Finishing & Jointing Systems

Repairs & Maintenance
Trouble Shooting

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 Application
—— In smaller rooms (e.g. toilets and bathrooms)
fix shorter lengths of GIB-Cove® first. This
allows the longer more flexible pieces to be
placed last for a tight fit
—— Apply the GIB-Cove® Bond in two strips
(about 10mm thick) along the entire length of
each edge of the GIB-Cove® where contact
will be made with ceiling and wall
—— Where friction joints or deflection heads are
used in non Fire Resistant Rated commercial
light steel framed construction, the GIB-Cove®
may be adhered to the ceiling only and sealed
to the wall using a flexible sealant
—— Carefully place the first length along the chalk
line and press firmly into position. Hold in
place until the adhesive grips
—— Remove excess GIB-Cove® Bond using
a broad-knife and clean the joints with a
moistened brush or sponge
—— Where walls and ceilings are uneven, it may
be necessary to hold the GIB-Cove® in
position for longer until the GIB-Cove® Bond
has set. This is done with partly driven nails
or screws supporting the edge of the GIB-
Cove®. These can be removed and the holes
stopped when the adhesive has set. Note:
GIB-Cove® Bond must be discarded after it
shows signs of stiffening

6.13 SKIM COATING

All paint products and systems must be applied Trowel Application of a Skim Coat New
in strict accordance to the manufacturer’s GIB® Plasterboard
recommendations. This surface is the simplest to skim coat, however
care should still be taken as problems can occur
Level 5 Skim Coating through incorrect application.
Skim coating is one method to achieve a Level 5
Finish as specified in AS/NZS 2589:2017. A Level 5 Any of the GIB® ready mixed air drying range
Finish is defined as being ‘characterised by a parity of compounds can be used for trowel applied
of texture and porosity’ over the entire surface of skim coating. Consider weather conditions when
the plasterboard, jointing and fastener points. making the choice to ensure optimum sand-ability
is achieved. See p. 98 for further detail.
Skim coating can be achieved by applying jointing
compound to the surface with a trowel. This —— Joints should be prepared in the normal
creates a uniform texture (and also hides bumps, manner up to the finish coating stage. Allow
steps and joint protrusions). plaster to dry thoroughly
—— Apply a skim coat of approximately 0.25mm–
Alternatively, high build paint systems can 0.5mm (but no greater than 1.0mm) of the
be used. These are comprised of a specially GIB® compound of choice to the entire
formulated high build coating which is very surface of the board
efficiently applied with airless spray equipment. —— Leave the skim coated area until
These also do an excellent job of masking surface completely dry
texture variance, but may not correct irregularity in —— Sand by hand or a pole sander, in one
the board surface. direction with 220 grit or finer sandpaper

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—— Ensure surface is free of dust. Seal with a Existing Plasterboard – Previously
wallboard sealer prior to decoration. Use a Wallpapered
pigmented oil based sealer for areas that will This surface would be commonly encountered in
be exposed to moisture renovation work where old wallpaper has been
removed and skim coat is required. This surface

Introduction
Existing Plasterboard – Undecorated presents special problems because it is usually
These areas would typically include board that rough, uneven, has loose paper and is covered
has been fixed to the wall and has not been with wallpaper size.
stopped. When the board has been exposed to
the elements for an extended period of time face 1. Rinse area twice with warm water and leave
paper may fade. to dry
2. Repair any damaged areas to the core of

Product Range
1. Remove any dirt or oil with detergent. Allow the plasterboard with GIB Tradeset® 20 or
to thoroughly dry before continuing 45. Ensure plaster is completely set and dry
2. Seal the entire area with a pigmented-oil before proceeding
based sealer 3. Seal the entire area to be skim coated with
3. Lightly sand the entire area with 100–120 grit a pigmented oil based sealer. (Note: Water
sandpaper based acrylic sealers must not be used on
4. Apply a skim coat of approximately 0.25mm– existing wallpapered plasterboard)

Pre-Installation
0.50mm of GIB® air drying compound to the 4. Sand the entire area with 100–120 grit
entire surface of the board sandpaper
5. Leave GIB® air drying compound to 5. Apply approximately 0.25mm–0.5mm thick
completely dry. Sand with 220 grit or finer coat of GIB® air drying compound
sandpaper, in one direction, using either a 6. Leave the GIB® air drying compound to
pole sander or sanding block. A vacuum completely dry. Sand, with 220 grit or finer
power sander can also be used

General Installation
sandpaper, in one direction, using either a
6. Ensure surface is free of dust. Seal with an pole sander or sanding block
Acrylic Wallboard Sealer prior to decoration. 7. Ensure surface is free of dust. Seal with an
Use a pigmented oil based sealer for areas Acrylic Wallboard Sealer prior to decoration.
that will be exposed to moisture Use a pigmented oil based sealer for areas
that will be exposed to moisture

GIB® Performance Systems

Existing Plasterboard – Painted Surface
1. Clean the entire area to be skimmed with
water and a scouring pad. Use an alkaline
cleaning solution in water to remove any dirt/
oil. Thoroughly rinse with water
2. Sand painted areas to be skimmed with
100–120 grit sandpaper

Finishing & Jointing Systems

3. Apply a skim coat of approximately
0.25mm–0.50mm of GIB® air drying
compound
to the entire surface of the board
4. Leave GIB® air drying compound to
completely dry. Sand, with 220 grit or finer
sandpaper, in one direction, using either a
pole sander or sanding block.
Repairs & Maintenance

5. Ensure surface is free of dust. Seal with an

Acrylic Wallboard Sealer prior to decoration.
Use a pigmented oil based sealer for areas
that will be exposed to moisture
Trouble Shooting

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6.14 SANDING
Winstone Wallboards has a range of compounds Machine sanding
to cater for different drying conditions experienced Purpose built vacuum sanding machines can be
in New Zealand. used to significantly reduce airborne dust, as well
The GIB Trade Finish® compounds have different as the time and effort taken to sand the joints (and
sanding characteristics. For example, during general clean-up time).
winter a harder finishing compound can be used —— Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use
to avoid scratching and swirl marks. During 220 grit paper
summer, an easier to sand finishing compound —— When sanding, position the sanding head so
can be selected to speed up sanding (and where that it is in contact with the joint. Press lightly
a lot of hand sanding is required). on any feathered edges so that the paper is
When drying conditions are not ideal, problems not scuffed excessively
may arise with softer compounds scratching too —— Be careful when using a machine sander on
easily and leaving “swirl” marks after sanding. A nail and screw hole areas. If the paper surface
harder finishing compound is recommended in is scuffed excessively, it may show through
these conditions (e.g. a switch from GIB Trade the finished painted surface as a variance
Finish® Lite to GIB Trade Finish® Multi or from GIB in texture or sheen, diminishing the overall
quality of the finish
Trade Finish® Multi to GIB Trade Finish® Heavy
Weight in colder conditions). Pole sanding
—— Pole sanding is a dry sanding technique
When selecting a harder finishing compound, it —— Round pole sanders have no corners to dig into
is important to remember the coats underneath the surface and use standard sanding disks like
need to be just as hard (or harder) and not softer. a machine sander
Using softer compounds underneath a hard —— Rectangular pole sanders are good for corners
compound can be problematic if the top coat is —— The main drawback with pole sanding is the
completely sanded away. This can manifest as volume of dust created. Ensure all safety issues
grooves or trench marks being created rapidly as are addressed by wearing suitable personal
the softer compound underneath is removed more protective equipment before using these tools
easily; and may give the impression the top coat
has delaminated when it has not. To avoid this, Sanding Blocks
use the same compound or a softer compound for These are block shaped sanding pads, handy for
the top coat. corners and small sanding areas.

Ease Of Sanding Sandpaper

The plaster based GIB Tradeset® range and GIB Sanding disks come in many types.
MaxSet® taping compounds are both much harder Although they may state the same grit size, the
than any of the GIB® air drying compounds, so abrasive material used also plays a part in how
there are no compatibility issues. quickly the surface can be sanded. If too abrasive
GIB Lite Blue® (which is used as a second coat) is and drying issues are experienced, swirl marks
a softer setting compound compared to the GIB may be left in the surface of the joint.
Tradeset® range and GIB MaxSet®. GIB Lite Blue® If problems are experienced with one sort of
is softer than the hardest air drying compound but sanding disk, try another. If the problems are on-
suitable to use under GIB TradeFinish® Multi or going, change to a harder air drying compound,
softer compounds. or heat the premises to be stopped (to ensure the
Refer to p. 98 for a list of GIB® compounds ordered joint has dried), and is therefore sandable.
from easiest to hardest to sand.

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Sanding In General —— Be aware that damp conditions (such as foggy
—— Always sand in the direction of the joint weather), can cause the surface of the board
—— Try to minimise “scuffing” of the paper surface to absorb moisture, and be far more likely to
next to the joint scuff badly when sanded. Either heat the room,
—— If scuffed excessively, the “furry” quality of the or use worn sand paper disks to ensure a less

Introduction
sanded paper will show as a different texture abrasive effect is applied to the paper
through the painted surface, creating a visible GIB Ultraline® plasterboard has a surface coating
difference in sheen on the paper which is far more resilient to sanding
compared to conventional paper surfaces. This is
one of the reasons why this board is touted as a
Level 4-plus product.

Product Range
6:15 JOINT SYSTEMS RECOMMENDATION
The GIB® plasterboard range of air drying The GIB Trade Finish® range was developed to
compounds caters for different weather conditions ensure a product is available that has similar
caused by seasonal change. rheological (trowelling) properties through the
range, but different sanding characteristics to suit
Air drying compounds (the compounds in pails) different seasons.

Pre-Installation
are held together by binders (glue). When these
binders coalesce and cure, they bind the filler The harder to sand products should be used in
particles (mostly limestone) together which the colder weather (winter). In these conditions the
causes the product to go hard. How hard a binder will not cure as hard, however it will still be
specific compound will be to sand is dictated by hard enough to resist swirl marks, scratching and
temperature as it cures. trade damage.

General Installation
—— The warmer the weather, the harder the The easiest products to sand should be used in
product will become to sand warm weather, when the binder will cure harder.
—— The colder the weather, the softer the same This creates a surface that is easy to sand and
product will become to sand can be machine sanded in summer without leaving
swirls and dig marks.
This can be seen when a compound that is great

GIB® Performance Systems

to machine or hand sand when applied on a hot The table on the right shows the sanding
summer’s day is seen to be much easier to sand characteristics of each GIB® compound.
if applied on a cold winter’s day. This can result in
the winter application sanding too easily, resulting Remember
in swirl marks that ruin the finish when sanded, —— Harder sanding products in cold seasons
it may also be easily damaged if trade folk brush —— Easier sanding products in warmer weather
past a dry but not painted joint. Change from one to the other for the cold and

Finishing & Jointing Systems

warm seasons if ultimate ease of sanding without
Conversely, a harder compound may sand well swirl marks and scratching is desired. Use the
in winter, but become too hard if applied in very chart to guide you to figure what will work best
hot weather, or if in-line with sun shining through for you.
a window in summer resulting in direct UV
penetration.
This may result in the product becoming “glazed”
Repairs & Maintenance

as it is sanded and very difficult to sand.

To resolve this issue there is a range of GIB®
compounds, each of which is optimised for warm,
cold, or in-between weather use. It is up to the
trades person to select the product most suited
to the condition to ensure ease of sanding and
quality of finish.
Trouble Shooting

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Ease of Sanding Table

Sanding/Scrape GIB® Air Drying Compound Setting Compound

Very easy sanding GIB Trade Finish® Extra Lite
Warmer

Easy sanding GIB Trade Finish® Lite

GIB Plus 4®
Weather Conditions

GIB U-Mix®

Moderate sanding GIB Trade Finish® Multi GIB Lite Blue®

Harder to sand GIB Trade Finish® Heavy Weight

Colder

Easy to scrape GIB Tradeset®

Scrape while “green” GIB Maxset®

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6.16 PAINTING
All preparation and painting work should be —— As a general rule ‘cut in’ around edges
undertaken in accordance with AS/NZS 2311 and doors with a brush and then apply the
‘Painting of Buildings’ and with the relevant paint remainder of the paint system with a 6mm

Introduction
manufacturers recommendations. –10mm nap roller sleeve
Surface Preparation Prior to Painting —— Always maintain a ‘wet edge’ with the roller
Ensure all stopped surfaces are dry, sanded and lay off the final coat in one direction,
smooth and that any dust, oil, grease or dirt has preferably parallel to the dominant light source
been removed with a soft brush, damp soft cloth —— On faded GIB® plasterboard, use a pigmented
or a vacuum cleaner. alkyd sealer as the first coat

Product Range
Ensure all windows, electrical fittings, furniture,
IMPORTANT NOTE: BACK ROLLING
covers, doors (or other components which are
not to be painted), are masked out, covered or Where the paint system will be applied by airless
protected throughout the painting process. spray equipment, it is essential to ‘back roll’ the
final coat of paint using a roller with a fine nap.
Guidelines
This is to create a ‘soft’ orange peel effect which
—— Flat paints tend to minimise visibility of any
aids in disguising plasterboard jointing, or any
minor surface imperfections but may not be

Pre-Installation
other minor surface imperfections.
suited to areas that need regular cleaning
—— Light tone colours tend to diffuse light,
which helps in disguising any minor surface Painting Existing Walls
imperfections Follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions
—— Avoid the use of harsh lighting (e.g. ‘wall regards preparation and methods of application.
washers’) or situations such as windows

General Installation
Wallcoverings
extending to the wall or ceiling line. If these New Surfaces – Follow the application instructions
situations are unavoidable consider the use of of the wallcovering manufacturer.
a Level 5 pre-decorative skim coat

6.17 PLASTER RENDERING INTERIOR MASONRY OR CONCRETE

GIB® Performance Systems

Victor® Multi Plus is a plaster based material then sprinkle two volumes of compound into the
formulated for application to interior concrete or water. DO NOT use lime
masonry surfaces. —— Briefly mix until plaster is blended (by hand
or electric drill fitted with mixing blade). Note:
Mixing Instructions: Undercoat
maximum drill speed 600rpm, as over-mixing can
Victor Multi Plus with the addition of sand, can be
®
accelerate setting and reduce working time
used as a base or undercoat coat (up to a ratio of
—— Add 1 volume of sand and thoroughly remix,

Finishing & Jointing Systems

35% of sand by volume) to rule out uneven internal
adjusting consistency if necessary. Note:
concrete substrates. The sand must be a good
do not retain product that has started to
washed grade, free of contaminants.
harden (or intermix with previously prepared
—— As a guide, use a ratio of 2:1 (two dry volumes material), as this will affect the finish and give an
Victor® Multi Plus to one volume dry sand). The unpredictable setting time
grade and moisture content of the sand will —— Wire brush surface to provide key for subsequent
influence the water requirement coats if the surface has been ‘polished’
—— Ensure mixing equipment and water is clean
Repairs & Maintenance

—— Use 1.1–1.2 litres of water to 2kg of the Victor®

Multi Plus and Sand Mixture (11–12 litres of
water per 20kg bag)
—— Place one volume of water in the container and
Trouble Shooting

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Mixing Instructions – Finish Coat Concrete Masonry, Blocks and Bricks
—— Ensure mixing equipment and water is clean The surface should be:
—— Use 1–1.06 litres of water to 2kg of Victor® Multi —— dampened with water if dry
Plus (10–10.6 litres of water per 20kg bag) —— under coated with Victor® Multi Plus, render,
—— Place water in the container and then sprinkle then the finishing coat is applied. Check with
the compound into the water. DO NOT add lime a concrete manufacturer for sealing agent
—— Allow to soak for 3–5 minutes recommendations
—— Mix until plaster is smooth (by hand or electric If the undercoat has dried out, it should be
drill fitted with mixing blade). Note: maximum uniformly and lightly dampened down with water
drill speed 600 rpm; as over-mixing can (immediately prior to the finish coat application).
accelerate setting and reduce working time
Adjust consistency if necessary by adding water Precast or ‘Off the Form’ Concrete
sparingly. Note: do not retain product that has —— Generally application of a bonding agent is
started to harden (or intermix with previously required before plastering is commenced.
prepared material), as this will affect the finish and If the surface is uneven, undercoating is
give an unpredictable setting time. recommended
—— The finish coat can be applied as soon as the
Application of Undercoat and Finishing Coat undercoat has set
—— Application thickness should be approximately Low Suction Backgrounds
3mm for a finishing coat. For thicker filling of Precast slab construction, high density concrete,
uneven surfaces such as recessed mortar no-fines cement, etc.
joints (up to 15mm), it is preferable to lay on —— The substrate has a very large influence on
an undercoat. The undercoat should be ruled the nature of application where a low suction
off and trowelled to a flush, but unpolished background limits the Victor® Multi Plus
finish. The Victor® Multi Plus finishing coat thickness
may be applied once the undercoat has —— If too thick a coating is applied in the first
adequately set (if applied too early the coat (above 5mm), there may be a tendency
undercoat may distort and fail) for the material to “slump” on the wall. In any
—— The finishing coat of Victor® Multi Plus low suction background situation, a bonding
is applied and lightly trowelled to fill agent MUST be used to avoid failure
imperfections and then finished to a smooth
surface. Do not attempt to feather out the Medium to High suction Backgrounds
gauge as the minimum coating thickness is Sand/cement undercoats, aerated concrete slabs
3mm. After the background has absorbed and blocks, normal unglazed porous brick work, etc.
most of the water from the finish coat, —— In high suction background situations, the
trowel the surface to make it denser. Light substrate must be adequately dampened
dampening of the surface with water may be down with water (or preferably a diluted
necessary to enhance trowelling. As the final bonding agent applied) to control the porosity/
set takes place, close in with the trowel to suction
provide a dense smooth surface. Walls should These types of substrate do aid the application
be worked from the top to the base of a thicker coating, with the subsequent higher
—— Victor® Multi Plus may be applied to a suitably suction holding the coats more firmly onto the
prepared base (which must be sound and substrate. Ideally the final coat should be between
free of oil, grease, wetting agents, shiny 3mm-5mm thick.
smooth finishes, dirt or other loose material).
If the surface will not provide a key (as for
some precast concretes), then it should be
roughened or coated with a suitable bonding
agent. Check with the concrete manufacturer
for bonding agent recommendations

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