Dry lining is a method of finishing internal walls using plasterboard fixed to a framework of metal studs or timber battens, rather than applying wet plaster directly to the masonry wall. It is faster than wet plastering, provides a cavity for insulation and services, and gives a flat, smooth finish. It is the standard method for internal walls in most UK new builds. You will also need plaster beads for any corners — see our Plaster Bead Calculator.

What spacing should studs be at?

Metal C-studs and timber battens should be spaced at 600mm centres (measuring centre to centre). This spacing corresponds to the standard plasterboard width of 1200mm, so each board edge lands on a stud. Some applications (e.g., heavy wall loads) may require 400mm centres. Always follow manufacturer guidance.

What size metal studs do I need?

The most common metal stud sizes in the UK are: 50mm C-stud for general partition walls, 70mm C-stud where more insulation depth is needed, and 92mm or 146mm C-stud for taller walls or enhanced sound insulation. The matching U-channel (track) is fixed to the floor and ceiling. British Gypsum GypLyner and Knauf systems are the most widely used.

What is insulated plasterboard (thermal board)?

Insulated plasterboard (also called thermal board or thermal laminate) is a plasterboard sheet bonded to a layer of rigid insulation (usually PIR or EPS). It is fixed directly to the wall using adhesive (dot and dab method) or mechanical fixings. Brands include British Gypsum Thermaline and Kingspan Kooltherm K17/K18. It is the quickest way to insulate and line a wall. Use our Dot and Dab Calculator if you are fixing thermal boards with adhesive.

How many screws do I need for plasterboard?

For plasterboard fixed to metal or timber studs, use drywall screws at 300mm centres along every stud and 150mm centres at board edges. This works out to approximately 15 screws per standard 2400 × 1200mm board. Use 25mm screws for 9.5mm board, 32mm for 12.5mm board, and 38mm for 15mm board or double-boarded walls.

Dry Lining Calculator — Studs, Plasterboard and Fixings Needed

Dry Lining Calculator — Studs, Plasterboard & Fixings

Calculate plasterboard sheets, metal studs or timber, and fixings for dry lining walls. Based on UK standard 600mm stud centres.

Wall Length

Length of each wall to be lined

Wall Height

Standard UK ceiling height is 2.4m

Number of Walls

System Type

Plasterboard Size

Include wastage allowance

Adds 10% extra for cutting and waste

Wastage Percentage

10% is standard for dry lining

Price Per Plasterboard Sheet (optional)

Price per plasterboard sheet

Price Per Metal Stud (optional)

Price per C-stud

How We Calculate This

Our dry lining calculator works out the plasterboard, framework, and fixings needed based on your wall dimensions and chosen system type. Metal studs and timber battens are spaced at 600mm centres — the UK standard for plasterboard systems.

The formula

Plasterboard sheets = Total wall area ÷ Sheet area × Wastage factor

Studs = (Wall length ÷ 0.6 + 1) × Number of walls (at 600mm centres)

Track/rail = Total wall length × 2 (top and bottom)

System types

Metal stud: C-studs at 600mm centres with U-channel track top and bottom. Most common commercial method. Brands: British Gypsum GypLyner, Knauf
Timber frame: 50 × 25mm or 50 × 50mm timber battens at 600mm centres with a top and bottom rail. Common in domestic renovation work
Insulated plasterboard: Thermal board fixed directly to the wall — no framework needed. Quickest option for insulating walls

Fixing quantities

We calculate approximately 15 drywall screws per plasterboard sheet (at 300mm centres along studs). For metal studs, we add 5 fixings per stud for securing to the track. For thermal board, we calculate 6 mechanical fixings per board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.

Dry Lining Calculator — Studs, Plasterboard & Fixings

How We Calculate This

The formula

System types

Fixing quantities

Frequently Asked Questions

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