Can you plaster board over hard board?

Question

We have moved into a property that had a loft conversion many years ago. The walls were made using hardboard and not plaster board. We have had one quote to skim the current surface, but a second quote suggests you can not skim hard board. The plasterer has suggested he can plaster board over the hard board and then skim the surface. Obviously this is a much more expensive option. I am wondering if this is our best option and would like reassurance that this is an ok idea for the room. Thoughts please!

Answer 1

[uk answer]



It sounds if the previous occupant has done a rank amateur loft conversion, without planning permission or Building Regulation approval. Nothing sounds right about it.



Check these items:

Is the floor just laid over the existing 4" joists? (need to be at least 8")

Is there proper insulation?

Is there a "Means of Escape" Window? (special regs apply to 3 story dwellings).

Is the access door a "30 minute " fire door?



If the answer to the above is no, you have a structurally unsound deathtrap. You need to get an architect in and get it designed and built properly. Did you have a proper survey before buying the house, because you should have, as he would have pointed this all out.

Answer 2

I think I would get a third quote and see who the third person agrees with.



I'm guessing the third would agree that using drywall/plasterboard would be the best idea.

I think the plywood would not remain stable enough to keep the plaster from cracking. The drywall mud should adhere fine but there may be more moisture/dryness fluctuation on the wood compared to drywall.



You could always try it, see how it holds and if it becomes a problem in the future, then drywall the area.

Answer 3

I'd rip out the hardboard, insulate behind and plasterboard over ready for a skim coat.

If it was done a while back It'll be freezing up there in winter.

Answer 4

in case you eliminate the board you would be commencing a demolition... plenty and many artwork.. i might to circumvent demo, the two cling new sheet rock over the full wall or attempt priming the wood with a good primer then placed on your plaster... better yet have it sprayed on. something that takes some practice and area of expertise equipment. i like area of expertise textures so in some rooms I even have long previous to city with a Spackle knife... frequently 4"ers... you additionally can use incredibly plenty something to function texture on your floor... to get a mushy floor to me is the toughest... you'll be able to desire to flow over it whilst it quite is a million/2 dry with a damp sponge or sand like a demon then the dirt will stay with you perpetually, it by employing the way turns to dirt in case you attempt to bathe it up with a damp rag... as your in a flat it quite is recommended to to maintain the feel to a minimum. you could lease a sprayer from the nearby ironmongery shop... combination the dirt to the factor of a milkshake... use a drill with a stirrer on the top to try this... Geez I wish i might desire to declare only call me... there are such lots of ideas and such lots of issues to visual show unit out for.... yet... whilst your achieved you have got achieved something which will make you sense good... and you will have achieved it your self... so dive in and have a ton of exciting... the worst which could take place is you will might desire to do it back... so what... vast deal... it quite is gonna be great!