DECORATING GOOD TO GO
Making it easier for branch customers to achieve a plasterboard finish requires a careful choice of jointing tapes, joint fillers and finishing coats, as BMJ finds out.
paper tapes, while the open mesh design helps minimise blisters and bubbles during application.
“Merchants who C
ontractors face mounting pressure to deliver projects for their customers while managing tight schedules and budgets. That means, when it comes to finishing plasterboard walls or repairing existing plaster, the key is offering them products that are tried and tested.
That’s according to Stacey Booth, head of marketing & portfolio at Okarno. She explains: “The choice between paper and fibreglass jointing tapes is often a matter of personal preference. Whilst paper tapes require your customers to have a certain skill level to ensure a smooth finish, they remain a popular choice among professionals. Gyproc Joint Tape is ideal for jointing both tapered and square-edge boards. Quick to apply by hand or machine, it’s pre-creased for easy application to internal angles, and features chamfered edges and spark perforations for improved grip and easier finishing.” The reality of working with paper tape is that it requires a methodical approach. The first step is to pre-fill any gaps greater than 3mm and allow it to dry for an hour before applying the paper tape. Next, use a base coat compound, such as joint filler, before carefully embedding the tape to avoid air bubbles. Subsequent coats are then applied. Paper-based tape is often less expensive and best suited for branch customers working to a budget, so it is worth having in the range. Booth says that Gyproc fibreglass tapes are ideal for areas prone to cracking, thanks to the high tear strength and self-adhesive backing. They enable faster jointing than traditional
understand the differences between jointing tapes can guide customers toward the most appropriate solution, reducing callbacks and enhancing project outcomes. The key is helping your customer select tape products to specific application requirements and understanding their preferences,” she says.
Working time advantage Joint filling products, such as EasiFill, mark a major advancement by combining filling and finishing in a single solution. EasiFill 60 offers both air-drying and setting properties, making it ideal for both bulk filling and fine finishing. The Gyproc EasiFill products clearly indicate their working time in their names; for example, EasiFill 20 has a 20-minute working time, whereas EasiFill 60 has a 60-minute working time. The intended use for each product is stated on the packaging and in published installation guides available on the manufacturer’s website.
Booth adds that professional contractors particularly value joint filling compounds that have minimal shrinkage characteristics, as this can prevent the need for multiple coats and extensive sanding, which can add up significantly on large commercial projects where time savings are crucial throughout the project.
Easier finishing
“Roller-applied coverings, such as Dalapro Roll Nova, are an effective way to achieve the final layer once joint filling and finishing have been completed. Its advanced formulation provides exceptional workability, allowing your customer to achieve a smooth professional finish that can be dry in as little as eight hours,
December 2025
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
depending on environmental conditions,” she says.
In addition to smoothing existing plasterwork, roller- applied coverings are also effective at concealing minor imperfections, such as small cracks or stains, providing a smooth base for further decorating without requiring complex restoration efforts. Other typical uses for roller- applied coverings are nail pops, cracks, or other minor surface flaws. Dalapro Roll Nova is supplied in a 12- litre resealable tub (covers 12 metres square at 1mm
thickness), meaning your customer can use precisely what they need and then keep the rest for the next project.
Booth adds: “While roller-applied coverings can handle minor repairs with ease, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are certain situations where the expertise of professional plasterers is indispensable.
Growing sales “Offering a well-thought-out range of products for jointing, filling, and finishing plasterboard, as well as repairing existing plaster, creates numerous advantages for builders’ merchants. Firstly, it positions your branch as a place to seek guidance rather than being just a product supplier, which fosters customer relationships and increased loyalty.”
A system-based approach to plasterboard jointing, filling and finishing also generates higher average transaction values, as customers are more likely to purchase all three elements and invest in complementary tools and accessories. This bundling approach naturally opens the door for cross-selling and upselling. In a competitive marketplace, it is more important than ever for merchants to differentiate themselves. By developing expertise in seamless finishing systems, they can to deliver genuine value to customers.” BMJ
33
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
