How to properly lay gvl on a wooden floor. DSP on the floor: laying on the logs, wooden GVL and video, do-it-yourself dry screed, warm overlap thickness. The right choice of sheet is a guarantee of successful completion of work

In the understanding of the average layman, the floor is a covering with which his bare feet, dressed in slippers or shoes, come into contact. In fact, this is a complex-composite structure, including, at a minimum, a solid rough foundation, which creates a base for laying the coating, a leveling layer and the coating itself. The formation of a leveling layer is the most time-consuming task, which will be quickly solved by gypsum sheets, which facilitate and speed up this process.

Gypsum fiber sheets - clean work, dry screed

Well-known among builders, sheets with the abbreviation GVL are modernized descendants of materials that were once called “dry plaster”. In the production of durable solid sheets, fluff pulp fibers are used, which act as a reinforcing component, and gypsum. The material obtained as a result of semi-dry pressing is distinguished by excellent technical qualities: excellent load-bearing capacity, no bending deformations, resistance to burning, low thermal conductivity.

GVL floor installation - clean, easy, convenient

The list of advantages is complemented by important technological advantages:

• simple operational laying of gvl on the floor;
• no waste, which is especially attractive for economical owners;
• the ability to lay the finish coating almost immediately without waiting for a long curing time, as is the case when installing a floor with a cement screed.

The dominant technological advantage of GVL is the ability to level the surface in the shortest possible time without wet, dusty, dirty work.

Gypsum fiber leveling sheets are suitable for flooring:

• over concrete slabs and beam ceilings;
• on top of the leveling structure, for the construction of which logs were used;
• on top of a polymer and sand-cement screed.

GVL floor improves the thermal performance of the room

The leveling element of the gvl floor, in addition to all its priorities, increases the insulating properties of the structure due to its excellent insulating qualities. In addition, the material takes part in the formation of an optimal level of humidity for breathing. It absorbs vaporous water when it is in excess in the surrounding atmosphere and releases it back when there is a lack of moist suspension in the air.

Expanded clay is an environmentally friendly porous material, which is obtained by swelling low-melting clay rock. It is used for insulation and soundproofing rooms. We will talk in detail about the material, its characteristics and methods of application, in the following article:.

Types of gypsum fiber sheets

For the construction of a prefabricated base, two types of material can be purchased, they are distinguished different types gvl for the floor perimeter dimensions and plate power:

• Standard GVL They look like regular drywall boards. Their dimensions are regulated by GOST R51829-2001, they are 1200 × 1500 mm. This technological material is used not only for flooring, it is also used for leveling walls, forming partitions and creating a number of architectural elements.
• Small format GVL. They are two sheets connected by gluing together with mismatched, intersecting central axes, displaced in two vector directions. Due to the displacement of one gypsum fiber sheet relative to another, a simple locking system is formed - a fold, which facilitates the installation and connection of the elements of the leveling layer. They are produced according to the requirements of technical specifications, small-format sheets are produced in two versions: 1200 × 600, and also 1500 × 500 millimeters.

Standard gypsum board

Small-format gvl for the floor

Often, for the construction of two, three or more layers of a prefabricated base, sheets of equivalent sizes are used, but it is possible to use elements with different geometric parameters. For example, the first one from insulating layer the horizon is laid with the help of small-format elements, the second of large-format slabs, or vice versa. The main condition is the mismatch of their direction, since the installation and gluing of each layer must be carried out "in cross" with the previous one.

The specifics of laying GVL elements

A number of finishing and building materials manufacturers produce prefabricated leveling systems with a complete set of sheets and fasteners for the construction of a single and multi-layer leveling structure. Against the backdrop of a mass of proposals from domestic and foreign manufacturers stands out. The international concern provides buyers with instructions on how to assemble gypsum board floors.

A specific feature of the GVL floor construction is the uniform displacement of the panels, as a result of which the floor layer resembles a brick laying in plan, due to which the contact area of ​​​​each of the elements with the sheets located next to it increases. This technology provides maximum durability.

Attention. The offset of the butt joints in each of the subsequent rows of GVL relative to the previous ones should not be less than 20 cm. The optimal size of the offset of the butt joints is 25 cm.

Gypsum fiber floor installation

The beginning of the construction of a dry screed is preceded by standard floor preparation. The rough concrete base is repaired and ground if necessary. If it is planned to lay gvl on a wooden floor, the reliability of fasteners and wood elements is checked, the horizontalness of all components of the structure constructed from timber.

So, the order of work:

• A slight unevenness of the cement base (up to 5 mm) is eliminated by local filling of the recesses and sinks with a repair mortar. To level large differences (more than 20 mm), fine-grained expanded clay is used.
• The draft surface is covered with a waterproofing layer, the edge of which along the perimeter is bent onto each of the walls. For a concrete base, polyethylene overlapped in strips (0.2 mm thick) is suitable as a waterproofing layer.
• An insulating tape 0.1 m wide and 1 cm thick is laid along the contour of the installed dry screed. To do this, either a special tape made of expanded polystyrene is used or it is cut out of mineral wool. Other insulating materials with a similar structure will do. The compensation circuit is necessary to prevent cracking and "swelling" of the sheets, which occur due to the deformation of the floating floors. It also improves sound insulation.
• GVL cutting is carried out taking into account the edge clearance.
• The heater falls asleep. Basically, washed river or quarry sand is used for this, less often fine-grained expanded clay. Amorphous insulation must be aligned according to the marks marked with a level gauge. The minimum thickness of the backfill layer is 20 mm. If the thickness of this layer exceeds 10 cm, it will be necessary to construct a three-layer dry screed from GVL.
• The floor structure along the logs can be insulated with stone or glass wool, you can lay polystyrene foam, cut into small slabs.
• GVL is laid on top of the insulating layer in accordance with the rules described above. The gap between the gypsum fiber elements should not be more than one mm.

GVL floor device in section

Note. If it is supposed to put gvl on a wooden floor, vapor-permeable materials are used as waterproofing: corrugated or waxed paper, glassine and other vapor barrier materials.

If the installation of dry screed sheets starts from the wall located opposite the door, in order not to disturb the horizontal surface of the insulating layer, it is necessary to make a kind of path or “islands” from the plates for movement. It is recommended to start the construction of a GVL leveling system on top of thermal insulation boards from the opposite wall. Here's what we do next:

• The first layer of dry screed is carefully covered with adhesive mastic or PVA dispersion. Adhesives must be applied between each layer of gypsum fiber screed if a multi-layer structure is planned.
• The second layer of the screed is covered from above, the elements of which are arranged perpendicular to the direction of the elements of the lower layer. To connect large-format panels and sheets with a fold, in addition to glue, self-tapping screws are also used (there must be a distance of more than 30 cm between them). Small-format GVL are treated with glue around the perimeter and also connected with self-tapping screws, but they are installed at least 20 cm.

Laying GVL floors in two layers, sheet layout plan

Important. To work with gypsum fiber material, special self-tapping screws with double threads and a self-sinking device are required. Fasteners intended for drywall are not suitable, as they are capable of spontaneously twisting out of GVL.

You should not be afraid of too much consumption of small-format material with a fold, since the trimmings obtained in the interface area are transferred to the beginning of the next row. There will definitely be no waste. In addition, the advantages of small GVL sheets include the ability to start laying from any of the walls, which is especially important when arranging rooms of a non-standard configuration.

GVL with lock-fold

Important. A solid sheet must lie above the cross joint of the lower layer. The combination of the seams of the lower and upper layer is unacceptable.

After all work, joints and screw installation points are sealed with putty. The final work is the removal of parts of the waterproofing and edge tape protruding above the floor surface. Everything is ready for installation finish coat.

The technological advantages of gypsum fiber sheets convince property owners of the possibility of doing the work themselves, which is fully justified by the simplicity of the dry screed construction scheme. Moreover, for your loved ones, the installation of GVL floors will be done with incredible accuracy, inaccessible to third-party, always in a hurry performers. Did you learn the easy process? Now forward to the implementation of plans.

Smooth floors are a guarantee of a long service life of the flooring and the absence of distortions of furniture and other interior items standing on the base. Achieving a perfectly flat floor surface in an apartment is not so difficult if you know how it is done. Many will immediately remember about pouring, however, you can level the base without using this long and costly method. You can use GVL for the floor, which is especially important for those types of bases that are contraindicated in high load.

Before we talk about how to level the floors with GVL, you should get to know this material better. The abbreviation "GVL" stands for gypsum fiber sheet. Unlike drywall, the material does not have a cardboard shell. It is not difficult to guess that GVL is a material based on gypsum mixed with various modifying and reinforcing additives, including ordinary cellulose. Each sheet is impregnated with a water repellent, which acts as a kind of primer. The result of the entire production technology is large or medium-sized white sheets, which have a uniform structure, are quite strong and reliable, non-flammable and have low thermal conductivity.

On a note! Interestingly, the gypsum fiber sheet is a kind of "descendant" of dry plaster.

GVL is often confused with drywall, but these are two different materials. The first is significantly superior to the second in terms of its technical characteristics - for example, in density. After manufacturing, each GVL sheet undergoes a series of checks for suitability and the absence of defects, only after that the material receives a certificate of conformity, which can be requested from the seller upon purchase.

Information on the purpose of the material

After GVL saw the light for the first time, it has found wide application in various construction fields. The material is also suitable for the floor - it is used to create a dry screed, which differs from the traditional one in that it does not require a long drying time and can be used even where the load on the floors should not be significant.

Gypsum fiber sheets are used for arranging a subfloor both over concrete floors and over those made of wooden materials, can also be laid on top of the finished cement screed for its additional alignment. GVL-based screed or sheets simply laid on top of the finished base will allow you to immediately start laying the final floor covering.

On a note! GVL screed is ideal for laying laminate, carpet, parquet and linoleum.

GVL is not only leveling, but also soundproof and, to some extent, heat-saving material. However, at the same time, it “breathes” perfectly, that is, it allows air to pass through, which means it helps to maintain an optimal microclimate in the room. Also, the material is able to absorb excess moisture in the air of the room.

Another important advantage of GVL is the possibility of installing floor heating systems, even water, even electric, and combining them with it. The density of the sheets allows this to be done, while it is enough to use sheets with a thickness of only 10-12 mm. The material under the influence of temperature is not deformed and does not collapse.

Note! GVL is used not only for arranging floors, but also for cladding walls, ceilings, decorating window or doorways, to create boxes for communications, internal partitions in the premises.

Material Specifications

Some information about what a gypsum fiber sheet is is given above in the article, however, the material has certain characteristics.

Table. Specifications gypsum sheets.

On a note! The length, width and thickness of GVL sheets may differ from those indicated in the table.

For the base of gypsum fiber, sheets of different sizes are used. For example, there are standard sheets that look like ordinary drywall. Their dimensions are 1200x1500 mm. Their dimensions are determined by GOST R 51829-2001. They are also suitable for creating interior partitions. To equip an even base, small-format sheets can be used, which are two ordinary sheets securely fastened together with a special glue. At the same time, the central axes of the sheets cannot coincide with each other, they will certainly be displaced, due to which folds are formed - one of simple options a locking system that facilitates installation and provides a simple and convenient connection of several floor elements. The dimensions of small-format sheets are 1200x600 and 1500x500 mm.

GOST R 51829-2001. Gypsum sheets. Specifications. Download file (click on the link to open the PDF file in a new window).

On a note! When leveling subfloors, sheets of different sizes can be used. The first layer is usually created from a small-format variant, and the second layer is laid standard sheets gypsum fiber.

Advantages and disadvantages of GVL plates

Like any other material, GVL has its pros and cons, which will certainly affect the decision - to choose or not to choose this floor leveling option in each case.

Advantages of using GVL:

• versatility of the material;
• ease of installation;
• environmental friendliness;
• high speed of work and the ability to continue repairing immediately after laying;
• waste-free installation;
• high strength and the ability to withstand significant loads;
• ability to withstand exposure to moisture;
• incombustibility, absence of deformation processes when exposed to temperature.

Disadvantages of GVL boards:

• a large enough mass that requires an invitation to help another person;
• fragility during installation, subject to improper handling of the material;
• significant cost.

A lot of fakes have now appeared on the construction market, and therefore it is important to purchase GVL only from trusted manufacturers and with certificates confirming the quality and compliance with GOST requirements.

Varieties of GVL plates

GVL sheets according to their technical characteristics are divided into two types - moisture resistant and ordinary, standard. Ordinary ones are used more often for all indoor work, the main thing is that the rooms have dry air and optimal temperature conditions. But moisture-resistant, which are labeled as GVLV, have a special impregnation that makes it possible to use the material in rooms that do not differ in optimal air humidity - bathrooms, saunas, basement floors etc.

Important! When buying moisture-resistant sheets, you should check all the elements of the material in the pack for the presence of markings indicating that the sheet is moisture-resistant, since negligent sellers can easily shuffle GVL with GVLV, which is not always noticeable immediately upon purchase, but is detected after delivery material in place. It is unlikely that the extra hassle of exchanging sheets is needed for those who perform repair work.

Dry screed technology

Since GVL is most often used specifically to create a dry version of the screed, consider what it is and what it consists of. Usually, the installation of this type of base begins with the laying of polystyrene foam - an insulating material. It is usually laid on bedding, for example, from expanded clay.

There are three main types of screed, which can be performed using GVL sheets.

In general, a dry screed consists of several layers. Her structure is like this.

1. Vapor barrier / waterproofing layer- the lowest, preventing the penetration of moisture coming from the ceiling to subfloor. Polyethylene with a thickness of at least 200 microns can be used as a waterproofing on a concrete floor, and glassine is best suited for a wooden floor. By the way, vapor barrier is usually used only on the upper floors, on the basement it is better to use waterproofing materials because there is much more moisture.
2. Compensation gasket, which is a tape fixed around the perimeter of the entire room near the floor. It can be made of foam, isolon and other materials. The material compensates for any expansion of the base that occurs during changes in humidity and temperature. This tape also provides additional noise absorption. Its excess, protruding above the level of the laid GVL, is cut off after installation is completed.
3. leveling layer, which will just be made of GVL or other leveling materials (for example, plywood).
4. GVL slabs act as before finishing gender. They can be additionally laid on top of plywood or other leveling material. The material is attached to the base with self-tapping screws or with the help of special glue.

On a note! If the floors have height differences of 10 cm or more, then it is necessary to install a third layer of GVL, which has exactly the same thickness as the two previous ones in total.

Some information about the use of the material

To properly lay the GVL on the floor, you need to know some of the nuances that will ensure an excellent final result of the work. For example, special sheets with a thickness of 10 mm are produced for floors - it is better to use them. Before laying GVL sheets, it is important to pour a layer of expanded clay on the base. It will provide additional leveling of the floor and help insulate the base. This is the most accessible and cheap option. The optimal size of expanded clay fractions is 5 mm.

Also, guides are mounted on the base, which play two roles:

• reference when pouring the base. Expanded clay in this case is poured to the edges of the guides, rammed and leveled with a long rule;
• support for GVL sheets. Laying will be done more professionally if the material has support and places for fastening under it.

If the installation of GVL will be carried out on wooden base, then it is important to properly prepare such floors beforehand. Preparation includes checking the floorboards for strength and, if necessary, replacing them. A floor screed is made if significant gaps are noted between the individual elements. Although some craftsmen do not produce a screed, arguing that if there are gaps, the floors will be better ventilated. So this step can be avoided.

Also GVL sheets on wooden base must be laid in two layers, which will make the base reliable and durable. GVL sheets are usually mounted on a tree if it is necessary to lay flooring, which is demanding on the evenness of the base - for example, ceramic tiles, laminate. In other cases, the wooden base may not be leveled. GVL layers are fixed as follows - the first is attached to self-tapping screws, and the second is mounted on the first with PVA glue (at the same time, excess glue that has come out between the seams is immediately removed). However, it will not be superfluous to fix it also with self-tapping screws. The laying of two layers must be carried out separately so that the seams do not coincide with each other. You need to move the sheets by about 20-30 cm. In this way, it will be possible to ensure that the base is as strong as possible.

Important! When laying GVL sheets, it is important to ensure that the gaps between the sheets are not more than 2 mm. Also, if a laminate or carpet will act as a finishing coating, the cracks must be puttied.

And one more condition that must be observed during the installation of GVL sheets, if they have folds. At the extreme row, located near the walls, they should be cut. Moreover, trimming is performed on already laid sheets.

Gypsum fiber is a finishing material for laying on the floor. In the future, almost any topcoat can be laid on it without any problems.

This material is produced exclusively in the form of sheets. It is somewhat similar to drywall. However, its characteristics are somewhat superior. Its main composition is gypsum, which is used in construction. They are strengthened or reinforced with loose cellulose. Thus, the strength properties of the floor laying elements are increased. It is made from recycled paper.

GVL is not as widely used as drywall mainly because of its price. It is much higher than drywall.

Scope of GVL

Gypsum fiber sheets can be used indoors for various purposes: apartments and houses, public, administrative and industrial buildings.

The following surfaces can be finished with a similar material:

• rooms where the level of humidity constantly changes, and often reaches high levels. These are bathrooms, baths, saunas, kitchens and utility rooms. To do this, use moisture resistant GVL. It is recommended to additionally treat it with strengthening compounds, and tiles or tiles can be used as a finishing layer;
• they sheathe attics, basements and attics. However, in such rooms with GVL finishing, ventilation will be required;
• GVL sheathe garages and outbuildings. Since this material can withstand large temperature fluctuations and retains heat;
• It is great for finishing children's sports and play areas. Since GV sheets are able to withstand point loads;
• they are also recommended to sheathe the shafts of all types of elevators because of the refractory properties.

Advantages of GVL floor

Gypsum fiber sheet has many properties that are not available to other building materials for such work. Before making the final choice of flooring, it is worth knowing about several advantages:

• its homogeneous structure helps to withstand various loads, including temperature. He will not lose his physical his under extreme conditions. This became known after numerous laboratory studies;
• the frost resistance available only to GVL is surprising. It is able to withstand as many as 15 cycles. This means that the researchers thawed and refrozen it 15 times. And the cracks appeared only for the last time. While a similar property of drywall sheets is calculated only 4 cycles. As a result, it has been established that this material is suitable for laying in poorly heated rooms, or where heat enters only occasionally;
• besides, its soundproofing properties are also excellent. Sound insulation with it reaches about 40 decibels;
• it is also customary to produce GVL sufficiently moisture resistant;
• it burns very badly.

In addition to the advantageous characteristics, GVL are increasingly being purchased for self-laying on the floor without problems. After all, it perfectly levels the floor. All work will take as soon as possible, which is important when fast repair. Today it is not so difficult to find ways on the Internet how to easily lay sheets on the floor.

Installation of GVL is a dry and clean way of floor screed. Therefore, immediately after the completion of work, you can start laying the coating.

When buying building materials, you need to know exactly for what purposes they will be used. Since there are several types with different basic characteristics:

• simple;
• moisture resistant;
• fire resistant;
• moisture and fire resistant.

The method of laying and fixing GVL on the floor

This method of laying the floor allows you to avoid a huge amount of construction debris. No need to additionally buy and use concrete, sand or gravel. Dry screed saves repair time, no need to wait for the solutions to dry. You don't have to be a professional to know how to make GVL floors.

Many modern building materials for finishing flooring require an absolutely even preparatory coating. And not all of them have good heat and sound insulation. And GVL will be the best option.

When layers of other building materials under GVL, you need to understand how much it will raise the floor and change the height of the room.

Another advantage is that "warm floors" can be laid on top of the gypsum fiber. And for such work, sheets of small thickness, only 1 cm, are suitable. This will be enough, the heat will remain in the room for a long time.

This is not such a complicated process, and it takes a little personal time that it is not even necessary to call professionals. However, it is important to strictly follow the unified laying procedure and know how to properly fix the GVL to the concrete floor. Otherwise, it will lose its operational properties.

GVL installation procedure:

1. First you need plastic wrap. With its help, the floor is vapor-proofed, all unwanted joints will be hidden. It should go out on the walls, at the end it is easy to cut;
2. next comes polymer tape. It fully compensates for expansions that may occur from temperature or humidity conditions. This will save the GVL;
3. then expanded clay is poured onto the floor. It will become the foundation. Inexpensive material that easily retains heat, has soundproofing properties. It is durable and absolutely safe, it will not become a load on the main floor due to its low weight. It is recommended to use granules no more than 50 mm.;
4. then some tweaking is required. After all, expanded clay must be leveled with a water level. Labor-intensive work that can take a lot of time;
5. now you need beacons, which are easy to find in any hardware store. Their presence is mandatory. The first pointer is placed at the window, and it will determine the height of the entire floor in the room. These beacons will help determine where you need to add or remove expanded clay. Each subsequent one is equal to the previous one;
6. the next item is the direct laying of gypsum sheets on expanded clay. Don't forget about offset;
7. for the reliability of attaching them to each other, it is necessary to make the same offset then one sheet is sawn. For better strength, the fastening of the edges is smeared with glue and fastened with self-tapping screws. On these consumables saving is not recommended.

Do not forget about some of the nuances. For example, if high thermal insulation is required and additional layers will be laid under the GVL. Then the floors must be prepared before repair work. For waterproofing, you can use PET film, roofing material, glassine.

Homemade can also be used as guides or beacons. wooden blocks. They will be a good guide in the room to accurately see the level of expanded clay. They will also help with laying and fastening sheets of gypsum fiber.

To simplify the installation of GVL, glued elements with the desired offset were invented. This increases the strength of the floor, saves time even more. And its styling is even easier even for non-professionals. However, these building materials are much more expensive than their counterparts.

Stackers recommend carefully monitoring the gaps. It is desirable that they be no more than 2 mm. If the finish layer is linoleum or carpet, then they will need to be puttied. All excess glue is also removed.

Before laying tiles on GVL, it is worth knowing a few nuances on how to lay them correctly. To begin with, a primer of gypsum fiber is required. In the building materials store you need to find a special glue for tiles. It is better to use a dry solution and dilute it at home in the correct proportions. The finished solution is applied to the surface, not to the tile. After each new tile, you need to check the evenness of the surface with a level.

The screed by laying GVL is modern in the world of repair. After all, it saves time, retains heat, does not let in extraneous noise, perfectly levels the floor and is an absolutely environmentally friendly material.

Innovations are constantly appearing on the market of building materials and technologies. Not so long ago, new sheet materials appeared, one of them is GVL (gypsum-fiber sheets). Its main advantages are solid strength, low price, high level of moisture resistance. How to put GVL on the floor, what technologies to use, how to cut and fasten - all this below.

The abbreviation GVL stands for Gypsum-Fibrous Sheet. There are names "gypsum fiber / gypsum fiber boards". Plates, as a rule, are called materials of greater thickness and smaller size, although not a fact. Sometimes both terms are applied to the same material. Specifications and requirements are standardized by GOST R 51829-2001, so that the material is officially recognized. According to the standard, it can be used in the construction of private, public and industrial premises. Scope - finishing and preparation for finishing walls, floors and ceilings. It is used for pre-finishing, replacing "wet" processes - plastering, puttying, pouring screed.

So GVL is one of the sheet finishing materials. It consists of cellulose fluffed into fibers, some additives that give the material certain properties (most often, substances that increase the water resistance of the material are used). Gypsum is used as a binder. The components are mixed in dry form, water is added to the finished mixture. Plates are formed from the doughy solution, which are fed into the press. After pressing, the sheet is brought to normal humidity (drying). Some firms (for example, Knauf) produce polished GVL boards. Such GVL is too expensive for the floor, and it is good for walls because it does not need to be puttied before finishing.

Speaking specifically in relation to the floor, GVL is used for leveling under the finishing floor coverings. It can be placed on logs, on the subfloor (solid or with slots). Under certain conditions, laying on wooden floors and on a screed (leveled dry surface) is possible. Can be used in a floating floor pie as a dry screed material.

Types and properties

According to the type of edge, gypsum-fiber boards come with a straight edge (in the PC marking) or a folded edge (FK). Fold dimensions - width 2.8-3.2 mm, depth 1.7-2.3 mm. Both types can be used for the floor, but there will be no through seams with a fold. This means that there is no need for sealing joints. However, the cost of such material is much higher, therefore GVL with a straight edge is more often used.

GVL with a straight and folded edge - two main types

As you know, gypsum is a hygroscopic substance. Therefore, conventional GVL is not used in areas of high humidity. For this there is a moisture resistant modification. In the abbreviation, the letter "B" is added in front. That is, VGVL is a moisture-resistant gypsum-fiber sheet. It can be used in bathrooms, showers, etc. Outwardly, they do not differ from each other, so we focus on the markings.

There is another type of gypsum fiber sheets - high density. Produced specifically for the floor, GVL EP is marked (floor element). Knauf has such a subspecies. It costs a lot, but both geometry and strength characteristics are on top. When ordinary GVL is used for the floor, as a rule, two sheets are taken, which are laid with offset seams. This gives a sufficient level of strength. As floor elements, GVL is recommended to be used in one layer - their strength is sufficient in this embodiment.

GVL dimensions and marking

According to GOST, gypsum boards come in the following formats:

• width 500 mm, 1000 mm, 1200 mm;
• length 1500 mm, 2000 mm, 2500 mm, 2700 mm and 3000 mm;
• thickness 10 mm, 12.5 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, 20 mm.

Deviation in width - no more than 3-4 mm, in length - 3 mm up to 2.5 m and 4 mm for longer slabs. Deviations in width - no more than 0.3 mm. The plan should be a rectangle. Permissible error (bevel sides) - 4 mm.

Sheet marking displays all data - moisture resistance, edge type and dimensions in millimeters. For example, GVL-PK 2000 * 1000 * 12.5 stands for ordinary (non-moisture resistant) gypsum fiber board with a straight edge. VGLV-FK - this means that the material is moisture resistant and the edge is folded.

Flammability category

Gypsum fiber sheets are classified as slow-burning materials. Cellulose is found in gypsum, which does not burn or ignite. It does not support combustion when in flame. The standards classes are:

Characteristics

A significant part of the GVL characteristics is given within the framework - “from and to”. This is due to the fact that different cellulose can be used, a different percentage of its content. If you are looking for a material with specific characteristics, look through the materials of a particular lot. Each batch must be tested, all indicators are indicated in the accompanying documents. The characteristics of GVL are quite good, which, combined with a low price, make them popular in the market. Here are the main specifications:

VGLV is one of the most resistant to high humidity materials, which has a low cost. When water gets in or humidity rises, the plate absorbs it. When the humidity level drops, the moisture evaporates. This does not appear on appearance. That is, it is a durable moisture-resistant material and it can be used for interior decoration, and even for wet rooms.

If we talk about the specific application of GVL on the floor, the material is not bad. Suitable for leveling, for laying on logs, can be laid on Styrofoam, which increases thermal insulation characteristics. This is one of the most inexpensive sheet materials, which explains its popularity.

General installation principles

It is possible and necessary to use GVL on the floor, but the recommendations must be strictly followed. In general, gypsum fiber sheet does not have very high strength. Short cellulose fragments reinforce the gypsum to some extent, but the material is still quite brittle. Properly laid, it can withstand heavy loads - up to 2 tons per square meter. But the keywords are well-placed.

Foundation requirements and laying features

GVL can be laid both on a solid and intermittent base. When laying on a solid base, it must be perfectly flat. Requirements for the base - a difference of not more than 2 mm per 2 meters of length. Manufacturers insist on this and, if possible, it is better not to violate this recommendation.

In practice, it has been found that small smooth irregularities - in area of ​​​​a few square centimeters, in depth - a few millimeters, are still acceptable. Manufacturers do not recommend, but in practice it has been proven that GVL behaves more or less normally. The sheet may bend, repeating the shape of the notch. If linoleum, art vinyl, or another soft surface is on top, all it threatens is the appearance of a slight unevenness. It is better not to leave even such recesses under parquet or laminate, as locks may diverge, there may be an unpleasant creak.

And, even under a soft coating, bumps can not be left everywhere. If they are in the place of application of the load, it is better to eliminate them. For example, on the aisle or where the leg of the table, chest of drawers, bed, wardrobe will be. There shouldn't be any inconsistencies here.

Second moment. When laying on a loose base or on logs, GVL is placed on the floor either with increased density (floor elements) or moisture resistant in two layers. When laying in two layers, the sheets are cut out so that the seams of one layer do not coincide with the seams of the other. This is fundamental and the recommendation should not be violated categorically.

Third moment. When laying GVL slabs on a hard, even floor (concrete), the ends are glued with PVA glue. When laying on a base that does not exclude movement (logs, for example), it is better to use elastic filler for joints. One option is a sealant that remains elastic after drying. It is applied, the layer is immediately leveled (you can use a gloved finger, for best effect it can be wetted with water).

How to cut and fasten

GVL can be cut with a hacksaw, for faster results - angle grinder (grinder) with a wood disk (ø 125 mm). It can be broken in a straight line just like drywall. To do this, cut the sheet on one side (front), put the rule under the cut, tap the hanging part with your palm, break it. The fracture site is far from being perfectly even, so cutting GVL to the floor is hardly worth it. The cut has to be leveled, polished, and it takes no less time, and sometimes more, than working with a hacksaw.

Self-tapping screws for GVL need special ones - with a sharp conical hat

GVL is fixed to the floor with special self-tapping screws. They are called "by gypsum fiber". They differ in that the hat has a sharper cone. This shape of the cap allows it to enter a dense sheet without pre-drilling. The length of the screw must be at least 3 times the thickness of the plate. That's how you choose.

Method of laying GVL on logs

GVL on the floor along the lags is taken with increased density (for Knauf it is Super Paul) or two layers of ordinary moisture-resistant material are laid apart from the seams (they are shifted so that the seams do not match). In any case, there are two ways to make a floor from GVL along the lags:

When laying GVL immediately on the logs, the step of the timber and the dimensions of the sheets should be selected so that the edges of the plates fall on the bars. They are fixed with self-tapping screws, stepping back at least 1.5 cm from the edge. In the intermediate beam (if a support passes under the sheet), fasteners are installed with the same step. If necessary, the gaps between the lags are filled with heat-insulating or sound-proofing materials. Depending on the design of the floor, they are either installed at a distance or placed on a leveled base.

Dry screed with GVL sheets

This technique was developed by Knauf, and a high-density GVL was developed for it. This material is called Super Paul. The essence of the method is that expanded clay of a fine fraction (expanded clay sand) is poured onto the base (any, of any degree of curvature). Expanded clay is leveled, floor elements from GVL are placed on it. The floor covering can be laid on this base. Very quickly and conveniently, you can make yourself an insulated floor. In addition, the technique does not create significant loads on the overlap.

Instead of expanded clay sand, you can use ordinary building dry sand. To mix different materials or different fractions is impossible, since sooner or later they will shrink. And when laying GVL on the floor, an even base without dips is required. So it is better not to allow drawdowns.

GVL on a concrete base

Concrete screed is a reliable base, but cold. If you do not do heating, the floor is very cold. Residents of the first floors of high-rise buildings and private houses know this. The problem is solved with the help of a floating floor device with increased thermal insulation characteristics. There is a traditional solution: put a layer of insulation and pour another layer of screed on top. But this is too heavy and takes a lot of time. You can make a dry screed - it's faster, easier and cheaper.

How is a dry GVL screed made on a concrete base? A layer of insulation is placed on the concrete, and sheet material is placed on top. As a heater, it is better to use polyurethane foam or expanded polystyrene of increased density (at least 35 kg / m³). Why not mineral wool? Because its thermal insulation characteristics are several times lower. And this means that instead of 3-5 cm of polyurethane foam, 15-20 cm of cotton wool will be required. Few people want to raise the floor to such a height.

One of the options sheet material for dry floor screed - gypsum fiber boards. GVL is ideal for the floor, as it itself has increased heat-insulating properties, and also dampens sounds well. The GVL floor is a good base for laminate, linoleum, carpet and other coatings.

Highlights on the results of the practical use of GVL floors on concrete

When laying GVL on a rigid base, it should fit tightly. Under it should not be voids and protrusions. That is, the concrete base must be even and smooth. GVL is laid on concrete. Fasten around the perimeter in increments of 50-60 cm, put clamps. In general, a gypsum-based Rothband-type composition can be used. It will fill/smooth out small imperfections and hold the sheets in place.

If it is required to improve thermal insulation characteristics, extruded polystyrene foam (EPS) or polystyrene is placed on the concrete floor. It can be simply put without fastening. But so that the insulation plates do not creak, they must lie tightly. If there are small irregularities, they can be filled with the same glue. It is applied under the slab using a notched trowel. The height of the tooth depends on the irregularities that need to be leveled.

The thickness of the foam is selected based on the requirements, the structure of the cake. If two layers are obtained, they are laid with a spacing of seams (so that the seams do not match). So that they do not rub and creak, do not move out of their places during operation, they can be fastened together. For this use:

• Glue for tiles. A thin layer is applied, trimmed with a notched trowel (4 mm). Glue is not for gluing, but for filling voids that are formed due to the fact that EPS is often in the form of a “boat”, that is, the edges are raised when compared with the middle.
• Mounting umbrellas. Such a length that only foam sheets will stick. The floor must remain floating. There should be no fixation to the base.
• Double sided tape.
• Layers bind mounting foam. A good option that allows you to level the non-ideality of the EPPS geometry. But the foam must be applied in a very small layer and it should be with a slight expansion.

For floors, GVL is usually used in two layers. Lay them with a run of seams. Layers are attached to self-tapping screws. The thickness of the GVL for the floor depends on the planned load. Typically, slabs of at least 12.5 mm thickness are used. If the geometry of the material is not ideal and there are differences in height, so as not to grind, you can use the same gypsum-based glue.

GVL laying on a wooden floor

In principle, everything has already been said above. If the wooden floor is even, you can lay GVL without fear. It normally passes moisture, so that the wood does not threaten to rot. If the floor is uneven (which usually happens), it is best to dismantle it and lay the GVL along the logs. Or make a subfloor. If this is not possible for some reason, GVL can also be placed on a wooden floor. There is a possibility - eliminate irregularities with a planer, putty the cracks. If it doesn't work, there is an emergency option.

We take a primer for gypsum mixtures, cover the floor in several layers. Pass all cracks with building foam with good adhesion, level with the surrounding floor level. Good quality gypsum plaster is diluted as for plaster (thick dough). We take a wide spatula and level the floor - we apply plaster. In some places - on the sdir, in some places - until the irregularities are filled. We take the big rule and align everything to one level. When it dries, put two layers of GVL.

How to lay tiles on a GVL floor

In order for the tile on the GVL to hold well and not to crack, the base under the gypsum fiber must be absolutely even and strong. If these are boards - no gaps, cracks or deflections. If the floor is made on logs, the thickness of the layers should be sufficient so that there is not even the slightest deflection during loading and walking.

Installation of GVL on the floor under the tile - a possible option

Since tiles are usually laid in rooms with high humidity additional waterproofing is required. It is recommended to use Knauf-Flechendicht or other mastics, rubber paints.

When laying ceramic tiles on GVL, it is necessary to use elastic adhesive for unstable or complex substrates. Make the layout so that the tile seam and the joint of the sheets do not match. It is desirable that the joint of the plates falls in the middle of the tile. With this approach, problems and cracks do not arise.

Uneven floors are a problem in many apartments. Therefore, before laying the facing coating, it is worth taking care of preparatory measures. Many people use pads for alignment. GVL sheets can act as such. How GVL is laid on a wooden floor, and a concrete base, we will understand in the article.

GVL sheets can be compared with drywall. They are also sold in sheets and are made on the basis of building gypsum. However, gypsum-fiber sheets are much denser than gypsum boards, due to which they have more the best performance. GVL sheets are 80% gypsum and 20% cellulose fibers.

GVL sheets are impregnated at the manufacturing stage special formulations, so there is no need for further priming.

They cost more than GKL, but still they will not cost as much as other alignment methods. There is no need to worry about safety, the material is environmentally friendly and will not do harm environment and man. GVL slabs can be used not only as a substrate for the floor, but with their help they create partitions and sheathe walls and ceilings.
One of the properties of the material is moisture regulation. They are quite capable of absorbing moisture if its level is too high. They are also able to let her go if the room is too dry.

Working with the material is easy and simple. In the process of work, there is no need for extreme accuracy. Plates are not subject to crumbling and cracking. Installation work can be done independently without the involvement of specialists. Mono slabs can be used for installation in private houses: due to their low weight, they do not bear the load on the base.
Sheets are used as a substrate very often. They act as an additional layer of thermal insulation, replacing the insulation. The material does not support combustion, so it is used as an additional protection against the spread of fire.

It is possible to lay GVL, as well as on a concrete base, and on a wooden one. They are also suitable for installation in an unheated room: they are not afraid of frost, temperature changes. On the substrate, you can lay any facing coating.
When laying the material, there is practically no garbage, so the process does not take much effort and time for cleaning. In addition to the sheets themselves, this alignment method does not require additional materials such as gravel or sand.

When using GVL, you do not need to spend time drying, after installing them, you can immediately start facing.

According to their properties, GVL sheets are divided into two large groups:

• Standard;
• Waterproof.

Standard plates are distinguished by high strength indicators. They do not support combustion, they are used for decoration in both residential and commercial premises. However, they are only suitable for rooms with high level humidity.
Waterproof sheets are further processed by special means to protect against moisture. They can be used for laying in rooms with a high level of humidity: in the kitchen or in the bathroom. They can also be used in unheated rooms: country house, garage and basement.

Advantages and disadvantages

The material is in demand due to the mass of its advantages:

1. Environmental friendliness;
2. Ease of installation;
3. Density;
4. Burn resistant.

Sheets are very easy to work with. In the process of work, you will not need special skills or a specific tool. Therefore, the installation will not take much time, moreover, in this way you can save a little without calling specialists. When working with sheets of debris, there will be little, there is no need for thorough cleaning after their installation.
GVL boards are used as a substrate, insulation or subfloor. On such a base, almost all types of facing coatings can be laid at no additional cost, because the sheets provide a perfectly flat surface.

The sheets differ in density, but it will not be possible to bend them, unlike the GKL sheets. Therefore, they are not used for finishing. Sheets are not afraid of water. Even standard slabs are able to withstand the effects of moderate indoor humidity. Sheets are absolutely safe. They do not contain toxic substances, so you can put them even in the nursery.
The soundproofing characteristics of the material remain at their best, it can be used not only as a substrate, but also to create interior partitions. After installation, there is no need to wait until the material dries, you can immediately proceed to the cladding. When burning, the material does not support it, acting as a protective layer. In addition, the material not only does not release heat, but is also able to retain it.

Sheets always remain warm, so for unheated rooms they are ideal. They can also be installed under the "warm floor" system.

The disadvantages of the material are known in comparison with GKL sheets. First of all, it's the price. The cost is not so high, but when compared with GKL sheets, the price will be about twice as high, so not everyone can afford them. Despite the low weight of the material, it is still much larger than GKL sheets.

Applications

GVL sheets are used very often due to a large number their benefits. Most often, GVL sheets are used for moisture-resistant floors: they are not much more expensive than standard ones, but their characteristics are much better. GVL is in particular demand for the installation of interior partitions due to its soundproofing characteristics.
For laying on the floor, it is also widely used. GVL sheets are not suitable for these purposes, as they are too fragile. But durable GVL sheets can be installed on the floor.

Previously, a wet floor screed was practically the only option. And now they are increasingly using the dry method, which includes GVL sheets. They can be installed at any temperature regime and there is no need to wait for the coating to harden.
GVL foxes are used in residential premises, at industrial facilities or in public institutions. It is widely used for finishing rooms with a high level of humidity or at facilities where there are high requirements for fire safety.

Step by step installation instructions

Required Tool

Gypsum board flooring is very easy to install. In the process of work, you will need a number of tools, which you probably already have at home.

You will need:

• Pencil;
• Roulette;
• Screwdriver;
• Construction knife or electric jigsaw;
• Rule, level;
• Metal profile;
• Narrow spatula.

Surface preparation

Before any kind of work with the floor surface, it must first be prepared. Inspect the base for flaws. If you have a wooden floor, then you need to check all the boards for damage from decay or insects. Check the evenness of the concrete base. Very large depressions are covered with expanded clay. The cracks are sealed with cement mortar.
If you are repairing the floors in your own house or unheated room, it will not be superfluous to lay a layer of waterproofing. In this capacity, ordinary polyethylene film can act.
Lay it on the floor with a slight overlap of 15-20 centimeters. They need to be taped together. The film should extend 2 cm onto the wall. Polyethylene is not suitable for wooden floors because of its vapor permeability. In this case, glassine and any other breathable materials should be used.
If you are making repairs again, then the old lining must be removed without fail. All debris must be removed from the bare base. It is advisable to rinse it and leave it to dry completely.

GVL laying on the floor

Installation of plates begins with marking. It is necessary to note the level of backfill. For these purposes, ideally, a laser level is suitable, but if it is not there, a spirit level will do. If the base is uneven, then the height level will be different around the entire perimeter of the floor. As a result, the level of the sheets will add 2 cm to the floor from the highest point of the base.
If, according to your plan, the wires must pass under the sheets, then they need to be fixed on the floor surface. In order for the sheets not to deform over time and as a layer of additional sound insulation around the perimeter of the room, an edge tape is glued. After its installation, it is necessary to cut it, taking into account the width of the backfill level and the GVL sheets themselves.

After these works, expanded clay is poured. You need to use small. After backfilling, expanded clay is leveled with the help of guide beacons of the profile. Use a level as you work.

You can flatten a layer using a rule. If there is a need for an additional layer of insulation or sound insulation, then sheets of plasterboard or polystyrene are laid on expanded clay. After that, proceed directly to the installation of GVL sheets. Laying is carried out from the wall.
The sheet must be firmly pressed against the edge tape. The edge of the sheets is coated with glue for better adhesion. In addition, self-tapping screws are screwed into the sheets in increments of 15 cm. The sheets are laid as brickwork: The joint of the next row of tiles must be located in the center of the tiles of the previous row.

After installation, the seams between the sheets and the screws are sealed with putty. In rooms with a high level of humidity, the joint can be additionally treated with a sealant.

Wait for the putty to dry completely and you can lay the facing coating.