Wallboard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wallboard
[ˈwɔːl.bɔːrd ]
Definition
building material
Wallboard is a building material made of a layer of gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper. It is commonly used for constructing interior walls and ceilings in homes and commercial buildings due to its ease of installation and fire-resistant properties.
Synonyms
drywall, gypsum board, plasterboard.
Examples of usage
- We installed wallboard in the new office space.
- The contractors used wallboard to finish the basement.
- He carefully measured and cut the wallboard for the project.
Translations
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Origin of 'wallboard'
The term 'wallboard' has its origins in the early 20th century as the construction industry began to look for efficient materials to use for building interiors. The product itself was developed from gypsum, a naturally occurring mineral that was abundant and easy to mine. Gypsum board was first patented in the United States in 1916, and it quickly gained popularity due to its lightweight, fire-resistant properties and ease of installation compared to traditional plaster. The adoption of wallboard transformed residential and commercial construction, leading to quicker build times and significant cost savings. Over the decades, it has evolved with various formulations and types, including moisture-resistant and soundproof variants, to meet the diverse needs of builders and architects, making it a staple in modern construction.