Electrical system and plasterboard: techniques and solutions for any environment

Careful planning of the installation of an electrical system on plasterboard ensures excellent results in terms of safety, functionality and regulatory compliance. Plasterboard walls are becoming increasingly popular both in residential and commercial settings, as they offer numerous advantages in terms of versatility and speed of installation. Nevertheless, given the nature of the material, they require specific care during the design and installation of the electrical systems. Let’s take a look at the design criteria, regulatory references and practical advice for selecting materials and installation techniques most appropriate to each environment.

The first step in the design of an electrical system on plasterboard is to bear in mind the technical characteristics of this material, which is composed of panels with a plaster core and paper coating attached to a metal structure. Installing systems in plasterboard walls is facilitated by the cavity formed between the panels, which can accommodate cables, pipes and home automation systems without the need for invasive building work.

During the design phase it is also important to asses both the number and the position of lights points, sockets and switches. This will enable precise planning of where the systems will pass through the plasterboard wall. Another important element to consider is the use of up-to-date diagrams and floor plans, to avoid interference between the various systems present, like plumbing or HVAC systems.

Then, there is safety, which must not be overlooked. Plasterboard structures are less robust than masonry walls and, while this has some advantages, it must not be at the expense of the protection of wiring and electrical devices. Therefore, it is required by law to use specific products, like perforated switch/socket boxes for plasterboard, which have superior technical specifications, like the GWT 850 °C and an appropriate fitting system.

The choice of materials for an electrical system on plasterboard has a direct effect on safety and longevity. For this reason, specialist components that are fireproof and resistant to mechanical stress are a must.

The Green Wall junction boxes and control boxes are one of the most reliable solutions for these lightweight walls. They are designed to be recessed in plasterboard panels, thanks to mounting flanges and are made in Halogen Free techno polymers that pass the glow wire test with GWT 850°C.

In addition, the most popular electrical boxes for plasterboard, such as the Gewiss plasterboard 503 box, feature a system of pipe locking and rotation patented by Gewiss, enlarged clamps for better hold and a standard center distance for compatibility with all the civil series.

Even when selecting electric sockets, priority must be given to approved products with secure fitting systems, that guarantee stability and protection even in the event of vibrations and accidental impacts.

The installation of an electrical system in plasterboard follows a precise procedure, ensuring work is carried out in an orderly and safe manner. First, the system’s layout is defined and lines are drawn on the metal structure to identify the passage of the corrugated pipes and the outlet points for sockets and switches.

Next, lock-pipe rings need to be fixed and the corrugated pipes passed through, always leaving sufficient surplus of cable to facilitate connection. Then its time to mount the plasterboard panels, fixing them to the structure, and to create the holes for mounting the electrical sockets on the plasterboard and for the perforated switch/socket boxes.

Once the boxes are installed, the wiring is passed through the corrugated pipes, cut to size and connected to the devices, taking care not to leave any overhanging wires and unprotected junctions to ensure safety.

It is then possible to reinforce the area around the boxes, with polyurethane foam to guarantee an optimum seal and improve the adhesion of the metal supports to the panel. Upon completion of the wiring and testing the correct functioning of the system, proceed with the plastering and finishing of the wall.

The final stage involves monitoring the electrical sockets for plasterboard, switches and any connection to a breaker box in the main switchboard to protect the system from power surges.