Waterproof gypsum board price in Nepal and its Types

Are you planning to renovate your bathroom or kitchen? Worried about moisture damage to your walls and ceilings? You're in the right place!

Waterproof gypsum boards have become a game-changer in Nepal's construction industry. Whether you're building a new home in Kathmandu or renovating your space in Pokhara, understanding waterproof gypsum boards can save you thousands of rupees in future repairs.

Gypsum board has a non-combustible gypsum core with paper surfacing. Gypsum board is also known as drywall, wallboard and plasterboard. Talking about the dimensions of gypsum boards it is 8, 10, 12, 14 feet long and 3 feet wide.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about waterproof gypsum board prices in Nepal, different types available, and how to choose the right one for your project.

What is Waterproof Gypsum Board?

Let's start with the basics. Waterproof gypsum board (also called moisture-resistant gypsum board or green board) is a special type of drywall designed to resist moisture and humidity.

Unlike regular gypsum boards that can absorb water and become damaged, waterproof variants have a specially treated core and water-resistant paper facing that repels moisture.

Key Features:

1. Moisture-resistant gypsum core with special additives
2. Water-repellent paper or fiberglass mat facing
3. Enhanced mold and mildew resistance
4. Fire-resistant properties maintained
5. Long-lasting durability in humid conditions

Think of it as your wall's raincoat – protecting your home from moisture damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs down the line.

Thickness of Gypsum board

¼ (6mm) low cost, home decor

3/8 (9mm) applied in a double layer system

½ (12mm) single layer and ceiling materials

5/8(16mm) provide additional fire and impact resistance

¾ (25 or 19mm) used in interior decor, shaftwall, stair wall, chase way, areas separation firewall and corridor ceiling

Edges of Gypsum Board

Square and tapered gypsum boards are commonly used in Nepal.

Common Types of Gypsum boards in Nepal

Many construction companies in Nepal suggest several types of moisture-resistant gypsum boards. Let's explore each one to help you make the right choice:

Regular/standard Gypsum board:

It is used for covering materials for walls, ceilings, and partition walls. It is ideal for a false ceiling.

Best For:

1. Kitchen walls (not directly exposed to water)
2. Laundry rooms
3. Basement walls
4. Half bathrooms
5. Areas with moderate humidity

Thickness Available: 9mm, 12mm, 12.5mm

Common Sizes: 4ft x 6ft, 2ft x 2ft

Fail Backed Gypsum Board

  It is an aluminum foil laminated gypsum board. It serves as vapor barriers and keeps interior moisture within the building. We use it on the Interior Face of exterior walls and ceilings.

Best Applications & Use Cases:

1. Interior face of exterior walls
2. Ceiling installations in climate-controlled spaces
3. Buildings requiring moisture vapor control
4. Energy-efficient construction projects
5. Temperature-controlled environments

Key Benefits:

1. Acts as vapor retarder
2. Prevents condensation buildup
3. Improves energy efficiency
4. Reduces heat loss in winter
5. Protects insulation performance

Fire Resistance gypsum board:

It is useful for ceilings and where fire protection is a priority.

Best Applications & Use Cases:

1. Fire-rated ceiling systems
2. Stairwell enclosures
3. Fire separation walls
4. Attached garage walls
5. Multi-family residential buildings
6. Commercial buildings requiring fire protection
7. Areas near furnaces and heating equipment

Fire Rating Specifications:

1. Type X: 1-hour fire resistance
2. Type C: Up to 4-hour fire resistance

Safety Benefits: Slows fire spread, provides crucial evacuation time, meets building code requirements.

 Moisture Resistance Gypsum Board

It is used for covering materials for interior walls that require specific moisture rated assemblies. It is also ideal for ceiling and drywall partitions and used as base for tiles installation in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and external soffits in sheltered position.

Best Applications & Use Cases:

1. Bathroom walls and ceilings
2. Kitchen backsplash areas
3. Shower surrounds (tile backer)
4. Laundry rooms
5. Basement applications
6. External soffits (sheltered positions)
7. Tile installation substrate in wet areas
8. Indoor pool areas
9. Commercial kitchens

Performance Features:

1. Water-resistant (not waterproof)
2. Mold and mildew resistant
3. Ideal base for ceramic tile installation
4. Suitable for high-humidity zones

Important Note: Not recommended for direct shower/tub enclosures; use cement board instead.

Gypsum Liner board

It is also available in fiberglass mat facing which increases its weather and mold resistance. It has a special fire resistance core enhanced in moisture resistance paper.

Key Features:

1. Fiberglass mat facing - Superior weather resistance
2. Enhanced fire-resistant core - Added safety protection
3. Moisture-resistant paper - Improved durability
4. Mold-resistant properties - Long-term performance

Best Applications & Use Cases:

1. Shaft walls
2. Fire-rated assemblies
3. Elevator shafts
4. Stairwell linings
5. Exterior applications (protected)
6. High-traffic commercial areas
7. Areas requiring enhanced durability

Advantages Over Standard Board: Superior impact resistance, better weather protection, enhanced fire rating, longer lifespan in demanding environments.

How to Choose the Right Gypsum Board: Quick Selection Guide

Key Benefits of Waterproof Gypsum Boards

Why should you invest in waterproof gypsum boards? Let me break down the advantages:

1. Mold and Mildew Prevention

Nepal's monsoon season brings high humidity. Waterproof boards actively resist mold growth, keeping your family healthy.

2. Longer Lifespan

While regular gypsum might need replacement in 5-7 years in wet areas, waterproof variants can last 15-20 years with proper installation.

3. Cost-Effective Long Term

Yes, they cost more upfront (about 30-40% more than regular boards), but you'll save on repairs, replacements, and medical bills from mold-related issues.

4. Fire Resistance Maintained

You don't sacrifice fire safety for moisture protection – these boards maintain excellent fire-resistant properties.

5. Easy Installation

Waterproof gypsum boards install just like regular ones. Your contractor won't need special tools or training.

6. Smooth Finish for Tiles

Perfect as a base for ceramic tiles in bathrooms and kitchens – provides a stable, water-resistant substrate.

7. Better for Nepal's Climate

With our monsoon rains and high humidity in many regions, moisture-resistant boards are practically essential.

How to Choose the Right Waterproof Gypsum Board

Feeling overwhelmed by options? Here's a simple decision-making framework:

Ask Yourself These Questions:

1. How wet will the area get?

1. Light moisture (kitchen walls): Standard moisture-resistant board
2. Moderate moisture (bathroom ceilings): Moisture-resistant with good ventilation
3. Direct water contact (shower walls): Premium waterproof with fiberglass mat

2. What's your budget?

1. Economy: Standard green board (Rs. 550-650 per piece)
2. Mid-range: Enhanced moisture-resistant (Rs. 700-850 per piece)
3. Premium: Fiberglass mat waterproof (Rs. 900-1,200 per piece)

3. Do you need fire resistance? If yes, choose fire and moisture-resistant dual boards – essential for kitchens and commercial spaces.

4. What thickness do you need?

1. 9mm: Light residential applications, non-load bearing
2. 12mm: Standard residential use, good balance
3. 12.5mm: Heavy-duty, commercial, or high-traffic areas

5. Are you installing tiles? If yes, ensure your board is specifically rated as a tile backer – not all moisture-resistant boards are suitable for direct tile installation.

Price of Waterproog Gypsum Board Price in Nepal

Here is the price list of gypsum prices in Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between waterproof and moisture-resistant gypsum board?

Great question! These terms are often used interchangeably, but there's a subtle difference:

Moisture-resistant (green board): Resists humidity and occasional splashes but shouldn't have prolonged water contact

Waterproof (with fiberglass mat): Can handle direct water exposure and is suitable for shower areas

For most residential applications in Nepal, moisture-resistant boards work perfectly fine. Reserve true waterproof boards for areas with direct water contact.

2. How long do waterproof gypsum boards last in Nepal's climate?

With proper installation and maintenance, waterproof gypsum boards can last 15-20 years in Nepal's humid climate. Regular gypsum boards in the same conditions might only last 5-7 years before requiring replacement.

The key factors affecting lifespan:

Quality of installation

Ventilation in the room

Regular maintenance

Brand quality

3. Can I paint directly on waterproof gypsum boards?

Yes, but follow these steps:

Apply water-resistant primer first

Use moisture-resistant paint (like bathroom paint)

Apply 2-3 coats for best protection

Avoid painting when humidity is too high

Never skip the primer – it's essential for proper adhesion and added protection!

4. Which thickness is best for bathroom ceilings in Nepal?

For bathroom ceilings in Nepal, I recommend 12mm or 12.5mm thickness. Here's why:

9mm can sag over time due to steam and moisture weight

12mm provides better structural integrity

12.5mm is ideal if your bathroom has poor ventilation or frequent hot showers

The extra cost (Rs. 100-150 per board) is worth the peace of mind!

5. Where can I buy waterproof gypsum boards in Nepal?

You can find waterproof gypsum boards at:

In Kathmandu:

Major hardware stores in Putalisadak

Building material shops in Teku

Monika Group outlets

Online platforms like Hamrobazar, Gharbanau, and SY Bazzar

In Pokhara:

Capital Enterprises

Local building material suppliers

Hardware shops in Chipledhunga

Pro Tip: Always buy from authorized dealers to ensure authentic products with warranties!

6. Is waterproof gypsum board safe for children's rooms?

Absolutely! Waterproof gypsum boards are:

Non-toxic and safe

Fire-resistant

Don't emit harmful chemicals

Prevent mold growth (better for respiratory health)

In fact, they're safer than regular gypsum in humid climates because they prevent mold, which can cause respiratory issues in children.

7. Do I need waterproof gypsum for my living room?

For standard living rooms with normal humidity, regular gypsum boards work fine and save you money. However, consider waterproof variants if:

Your living room is adjacent to a bathroom

You live in particularly humid areas

The room has poor ventilation

You're in a ground floor apartment prone to dampness

8. Can I install tiles directly on waterproof gypsum boards?

Yes, but only on boards specifically rated as "tile backers." Not all moisture-resistant boards are suitable for direct tile installation.

Important considerations:

Maximum tile weight: 32 kg/m²

Use proper tile adhesive suitable for gypsum

Ensure board is rated for tile application

For heavy tiles or shower walls, consider cement board instead

9. What's the best brand of waterproof gypsum board in Nepal?

Based on availability, quality, and price in Nepal, here are the top recommendations:

Premium Tier:

Gyproc (Thailand-made): Excellent quality, international standards

Price: Rs. 700-900 per 12.5mm board

Mid-Range:

Elephant Brand: Good balance of quality and price

HomeMandu: Locally available, reliable

Price: Rs. 550-750 per 12.5mm board

Budget-Friendly:

Local manufacturers meeting ASTM standards

Price: Rs. 450-600 per 12.5mm board

My Recommendation: For critical areas like bathrooms, invest in Gyproc or Elephant. For other moisture-prone areas, mid-range brands work well.

10. How do I know if my gypsum board is truly waterproof?

Here's a simple test before installation:

The Water Test:

Place a small piece of board in water for 2 hours

Standard gypsum will absorb water and become soft

Waterproof gypsum will resist absorption

Visual Indicators:

Green or blue-tinted paper facing (moisture-resistant)

Fiberglass mat facing (highly waterproof)

Brand markings indicating "WR" or "MR" (water/moisture resistant)

Documentation Check:

Look for ASTM C1396 certification

Check manufacturer's specifications

Verify moisture resistance rating

11. What is the labor cost for installation in Nepal?

Labor costs vary by location and complexity:

Kathmandu Valley:

Simple wall installation: Rs. 150-200 per sq ft

Ceiling installation: Rs. 200-250 per sq ft

Complex designs with curves: Rs. 300-400 per sq ft

Outside Kathmandu:

Rates are typically 15-20% lower

However, material transport costs may be higher

Pro Tip: Get at least 3 quotes and check references before hiring contractors!

12. Can waterproof gypsum boards be reused?

Generally, no. Once installed, gypsum boards are difficult to remove without damage. However:

Possible in these scenarios:

Boards removed very carefully with minimal fasteners

No water damage or mold present

Only for temporary or non-structural reuse

Better approach: Plan properly the first time to avoid needing to reuse boards!

Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice

Choosing waterproof gypsum boards for your home in Nepal isn't just about following trends – it's about protecting your investment and your family's health.