The Red Book Introduction RRP502

User Manual: RRP502

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GYP500 October 2004. RRP $24.95

Table of Contents.
SECTION

SUBJECT

‘A’

Introductory Information.

‘B’

Steel Stud Wall Systems.

‘C’

Timber Stud Wall Systems.

‘D’

Masonry Wall Systems.

‘E’

Ceiling Systems.

‘F’

Services Systems.

‘G’

Rain Noise Reduction Ceiling Systems.

‘Z’

Penetration & Perimeter Detailing.

ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION

Inside Back Cover . . . . . Index to Systems - by System Nº.
Outside Back Cover . . . Contact Details.

The Red Book™

Index to Systems.
System Nº Page Nº
005
B9
010
B9
015
B9
020
B9
025
B9
030
B9
31
B12
32
B14
035
B10
39
B14
40
B11
41
B11
42
B11
050
B10
051
B10
055
B10
60
B24
61
B24
62
B24
075
B10
080
B10
089
B15
090
B15
091
B15
092
B15
093
B15
105
B16
110
B16
121
B29
122
B29
125
B16
127
B29
128
B29
130
B16
131
B16
135
B16
150
B18
152
B18
154
B18
155
B18
157
B18
160
B18
161
B19
162
B19
165
B31
167
B31
168
B31
170
B32
171
B32
175
B19
178
B32
179
B32
180
B19
185
B30
186
B30
191
B19
192
B35
193
B35
194
B35
195
B35
196
B35
197
B35
198
B35
205
B20

System Nº Page Nº
206
B21
207
B21
208
B20
209
B20
210
B20
211
B20
212
B21
215
B20
217
B22
218
B21
219
B22
220
B22
250
B21
255
B21
275
B22
280
B22
290
B25
291
B25
292
B25
293
B25
294
B26
295
B26
296
B27
297
B26
298
B27
305
C6
310
C6
315
C6
320
C6
325
C6
330
C6
335
C7
350
C7
352
C7
354
C7
355
C7
375
C8
380
C8
390
C15
391
C15
392
C15
393
C15
403
C14
410
C14
411
C14
415
C14
419
C14
425
C12
430
C12
450
C12
455
C12
475
C12
480
C12
493
C22
494
C22
495
C22
496
C22
497
C22
498
C22
500
C11
501
C11
502
C11
503
C11
530
D12

System Nº Page Nº
531
D12
532
D12
533
D12
534
D12
535
D12
536
D12
537
D12
540
D10
541
D10
542
D10
543
D10
544
D11
545
D11
546
D11
547
D11
550
C9
555
C9
575
C9
580
C9
582
C9
600
B12
601
B12
602
B12
605
B12
606
B12
610
B13
611
B13
613
B13
614
B13
620
B17
630
B19
631
B17
632
B17
633
B17
640
B22
652
C7
653
C8
654
C8
660
C8
661
C13
662
C13
663
C13
664
C13
665
C8
670
C13
671
C13
672
C13
674
C10
675
C10
677
C9
678
C9
680
C10
681
C10
682
C10
690
C20
693
C20
694
C21
695
C21
696
C20
697
C21
698
C21
722
D15
723
D15
724
D15

System Nº Page Nº
730
D15
731
D15
732
D15
735
SC13
736
SC13
760
D6
761
D6
762
D6
764
D6
765
D6
766
D6
767
D7
768
D7
769
D7
770
D7
771
D7
772
D7
780
D8
781
D8
782
D8
783
D8
784
D8
785
D8
786
D9
787
D9
788
D9
789
D9
790
D9
791
D9
795
D16
796
D16
797
D16
798
D16
800
E7
801
E7
802
E7
803
E7
804
E7
805
E8
806
E8
807
E8
808
E8
809
E8
810
E9
811
E9
812
E9
813
E9
814
E9
815
E9
816
E9
817
E9
818
E9
819
E9
821
E10
822
E10
823
E10
824
E10
825
E10
826
E10
827
E10
829
E10
831
E11
832
E11
833
E11

System Nº Page Nº
834
E11
835
E11
836
E11
837
E11
838
E11
839
E11
841
E12
845
E12
846
E12
847
E12
848
E12
849
E12
851
E15
852
E15
853
E15
856
E15
857
E15
858
E15
859
E15
860
E16
862
E14
863
E14
864
E14
865
E16
866
E16
867
E14
868
E14
869
E16
870
E13
871
E13
874
E14
875
E14
876
E14
890
E19
900
C16
901
C16
902
C16
903
C16
911
C17
912
C17
915
C17
916
C17
920
C19
921
C19
923
C19
924
C19
925
C19
927
C19
928
C19
940
B28
940+
ExpressWall B28
941
B28
942
B28
945
B34
946
B34
947
B34
950
E13
951
E13
952
E13
953
E13
955
E13
960
G5
961
G5

System Nº Page Nº
965
G5
966
G5
967
B33
968
B33
969
B33
970
B23
971
B23
972
B23
974
G6
975
G6
976
G6
980
G6
981
E17
982
E17
983
E17
985
E17
986
E17
987
E18
992
E18
993
E18
994
E18
995
E18
997
E18
75PP
D13
75PP-DC
D13
75SS
D14
75SS-DC
D14
RWS Timber C18
RWS Steel B30
SF001
E17
SS01
F4
SS02
F4
SS03
F4
SS04
F4
SS05
F4
SS06
F4
SS07
F4
SS10
F5
SS11
F5
SS12
F5
SS13
F5
SS14
F5
SS15
F5
SS16
F5
SS20
F6
SS21
F6
SS22
F6
SS23
F6
SS24
F6
SS25
F6
SS26
F6
SS27
F6
SS30
F7
SS31
F7
SS32
F7
SS33
F7
SS34
F7
SS35
F7
SS36
F7
SS37
F7
SS40
F8
SS41
F8
SS42
F8

The Red Book™

CSR Gyprock Web Site.
www.gyprock.com.au
CSR Gyprock Sales Support.
Telephone: 13 17 44
Facsimile: 1800 646 364
CSR designLINK® Technical Support Service.
Telephone: 1800 621 117.
New South Wales and ACT.
376 Victoria Street, Wetherill Park NSW 2164.
Queensland.
768 Boundary Road, Coopers Plains QLD 4108.
Victoria.
277 Whitehall Street, Yarraville VIC 3013.
South Australia.
Lot 100 Sharp Court, Mawson Lakes SA 5095.
Western Australia.
21 Sheffield Road, Welshpool WA 6106.
Tasmania.
PO Box 61, Glenorchy TAS 7010.
Northern Territory.
Cnr Stuart Hwy & Angliss Rd, Berrimah NT 0828.

Health & Safety.
Information on any known health risks of our products and how to handle them
safely is on their package and/or the documentation accompanying them.
Additional information is listed in the Material Safety Data sheet.
To obtain a copy, telephone 1800 807 668.

CSR Building Products guarantees its Gyprock® products to be free of defects in materials and manufacture.
If a CSR product does not meet our standard, we will, at our option, replace or repair it, supply an
equivalent product, or pay for doing one of these.
CSR recommends that only products, components and systems recommended by it be used.
If this is not done, CSR will need to be satisfied that any defect in its product is attributable to our failure to
meet our standard (and not another cause) before this guarantee applies.
This guarantee excludes all other guarantees and liability for damage or loss in connection with defects in
CSR's product, other than those imposed by legislation.
© CSR Gyprock®, CSR Building Products A.B.N. 55 008 631 356.
The following are trade marks of CSR Limited and are under license.
CSR™, Gyprock®, Supaceil™, Fyrchek™, Soundchek™, Aquachek™, Bracechek™, Impactchek™, FlamechekMR™,
Freshtone™, Supatone™, Bradford™, designLINK®.

October 2004

GYP500.BMS7993.1004

Guarantee.

The Red Book™

CSR Gyprock™ On-Line

SECTION ‘A’
Introduction

Literature On-Line

Contents.

A1.

SUBJECT

PAGE

An Introduction to The Red Book™

A2

Components

A2

Product Properties

A10

Material & Construction Standards

A12

Fire Testing

A12

Building Acoustics

A13

Building Acoustics in Practice

A14

Detailing for Acoustics

A15

Definitions

A17

The Red Book™

An
Introduction to
The Red
Book .

Components.
CSR GFC manufactures and supplies a diverse range
of plasterboard and fibre cement sheets, acoustic panels
and accessories to suit a multitude of wall, ceiling and
encasement applications.

™

GYPROCK® Plasterboard CD is machine made
sheet composed of a gypsum core encased in a heavy duty
linerboard. Available with long edges recessed to assist in
producing a smooth, even and continuous surface once
jointed, or in square edge. GYPROCK Plasterboard CD
is manufactured to AS2588 – ‘Gypsum Plasterboard’,
and incorporates CD (Controlled Density) technology.
GYPROCK Plasterboard CD is suitable for internal walls
and ceilings.

The CSR Gyprock and Fibre Cement Fire & Acoustic
Design Guide…‘The Red Book™’, provides a ready
reference to the performance of an extensive range of
CSR Gyprock and Fibre Cement (GFC) fire and acoustic
wall, ceiling and column/beam systems.
Over the last 50 years, CSR has developed effective,
practical and cost effective fire and acoustic systems for
most applications. Fire, acoustic and structural testing
has been carried out for all GFC products as well as
those of CSR Bradford Insulation and Rondo Building
Products. To complement this extensive testing program,
CSR GFC has obtained certified assessments from
appropriate authorities on the likely performance of
some systems. These assessments are based on test results
and expert opinion.

GYPROCK SUPACEIL™ is a 10mm thick sheet
designed to span up to 600mm in ceiling applications.
GYPROCK Supaceil™ is machine made sheet composed
of a gypsum core encased in a heavy duty linerboard.
Long edges are recessed for flush jointing. GYPROCK
Supaceil ™ is manufactured to AS2588 –‘Gypsum
Plasterboard’, and incorporates CD (Controlled Density)
technology.
GYPROCK SOUNDCHEK™ has been designed to
provide increased acoustic resistance in wall and ceiling
systems. GYPROCK Soundchek™ is machine made sheet
composed of a high density gypsum core encased in a
heavy duty linerboard. Long edges are recessed to assist
in producing a smooth, even and continuous surface
once jointed. GYPROCK Soundchek™ is manufactured
to AS2588 – ‘Gypsum Plasterboard’, and is suitable for
internal walls and ceilings.

CSR GFC fire rated systems have been tested or
assessed to AS1530.4 : 1990 or 1997 at approved testing
laboratories. Test reports and assessments are available
on request.
CSR GFC has developed systems with ‘Fire
Resistance Levels’ (FRL) up to –/180/180 (3 hours). The
systems and performance specifications detailed in this
manual are guaranteed only for the construction specified.
Any variation or substitution of materials or assembly
requirements, or any compromise in assembly may result
in failure under critical conditions. It is recommended that
only accredited plasterboard fixers install fire rated systems.

GYPROCK IMPACTCHEK™ is high strength
plasterboard designed for impact areas. It is composed of
a glass fibre reinforced gypsum core plus a fibreglass mesh
bonded to the inside of the back face. 13mm
IMPACTCHEK is encased in a violet linerboard and may
be used in fire rated applications, and 10mm
IMPACTCHEK is encased in white linerboard. The
long edges of both are recessed for flush jointing.

CSR GFC acoustic rated systems have been assessed
by PKA Consulting, acoustic engineers.
CSR is continuously developing its products, which
may result in changes to product specifications, range and
performance. The systems and products in this Fire and
Acoustic Design Guide are current at the publication date.

GYPROCK AQUACHEK™ is designed for use in
lining the walls of ‘wet areas’ of residential and commercial
buildings. It is machine made gypsum plasterboard with
a core treated to make it resistant to moisture and
humidity. It is manufactured to satisfy the requirements
of AS2588 – ‘Gypsum Plasterboard’, and the water
resistant requirements of ASTM C630. It is encased with
light blue linerboard and the long edges are recessed.

A2.

The Red Book™

GYPROCK FYRCHEK™ can be used in wall and
ceiling systems where an FRL is to be achieved, or where
acoustic performance is required. GYPROCK Fyrchek™
is machine made sheet composed of a specially processed
glass fibre reinforced gypsum core encased in a heavy duty
pink liner board.

GYPROCK® Perforated Plasterboard has been
designed for use in ceilings where additional sound
absorption is required. It is a machine made sheet
composed of a gypsum core encased in a heavy duty
linerboard and incorporates CD technology. Long edges
are recessed for flush jointing. Perforations total 8.2% of
the sheet area. For detailed pattern information, refer to
Section ‘E’.

GYPROCK FYRCHEK MR ™ is pr imar ily
intended for walls and ceilings in ‘wet area rooms’ and for
soffits and external walls that must achieve fire resistance.
GYPROCK Fyrchek MR ™ is machine made sheet
composed of a specially processed glass fibre reinforced
gypsum core which is treated in manufacture to withstand
the effects of moisture, and encased in a heavy duty light
blue liner board.

1200mm (nominal)

FIG A1. PERFORATION PATTERN.

GYPROCK FLAMECHEK MR™ is a fire and
moisture resistant high performance 10mm thick
plasterboard. GYPROCK FlamechekMR™ is a machine
made gypsum plasterboard with a treated core to make
it resistant to moisture and fire. It is manufactured to satisfy
the requirements of AS2588 –‘Gypsum Plasterboard’,
and the water resistant requirements of ASTM C630. It
is encased with blue linerboard and the long edges are
recessed.

3600mm (nominal)

GYPROCK® PLASTERBOARD PANELS.
GYPROCK Plasterboard Panels have a gypsum core
and various face treatments. GYPROCK Panels are
produced to fit metric grid specifications of (600 x
1200mm nominal).
Perforated Panel has a white vinyl face finish, and
a regular grid of 6mm full depth holes. Perforations are
approximately 10% of the panel area, and combined with
suitable insulation, provide a medium level of acoustic
absorption.

GYPROCK® Shaft Liner Panel is a 25mm thick
machine made sheet composed of a glass fibre reinforced
gypsum core encased in a heavy duty linerboard.
GYPROCK Shaft Liner Panel is used to enclose lift
shafts, stairwells and service shafts in multistorey
construction. GYPROCK Shaft Liner Panel can be used
to achieve fire resistance in wall and ceiling systems.

FIG A2. GYPROCK PERFORATED PANEL
DIMENSIONS.

CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard is an autoclaved,
cellulose fibre reinforced cement sheet that is immune to
permanent water damage and has high impact resistance.
CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard is suitable for internal
walls as well as internal and external ceiling applications.
It has a recess on both long edges so that sheets may be
flush jointed, using CSR Gyprock® plasterboard jointing
materials.

1100mm

1200mm (nominal)

GYPROCK ® Flexible Plasterboard has been
designed for curved wall and ceiling systems and has an
enhanced core to enable bending to a small radius. It is
machine made sheet composed of a gypsum core encased
in a heavy duty linerboard. Long edges are recessed to
assist in producing a smooth, even and continuous surface
once jointed. GYPROCK Flexible Plasterboard is 6.5mm
thick and is installed in two layers.

500mm
600mm (nominal)

Supatone™ is a paper faced white ceiling tile suited
to basic commercial ceilings. A low maintenance bright
white panel, it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Freshtone™ UltraMatt has a low sheen, white vinyl
face that can easily be wiped clean. It is ideally suited to
large commercial environments, such as supermarkets
and shopping centres, where high reflectivity is required.

A3.

The Red Book™

Hygiene: 20mm thickness
panels with a ‘cleanroom’
classification. Provides excellent
acoustic performance and the
Akutex T finish is suitable for
pressure wash-down situations. For
detailed information, please refer to
the ‘Ecophon Product Catalogue’.

Freshtone™ Diamond White has a lightly textured
vinyl surface which resists fading and mould growth.
With a white finish, it is suitable for shopping centres,
factories and offices.
Freshtone™ Platinum combines a contemporary
metallic look with the simplicity of plasterboard ceiling
panels. Appropriate for office foyers, administration areas
or any modern space that requires a refined ceiling feature.
CELOTEX™
CEILING PANELS.
Celotex™ ceiling panels have a
mineral fibre core and offer a range
of attractive textured finishes and
acoustic absorption ratings to meet
basic requirements. The range
includes:
Fine Fissured: 16mm
thickness panels with a discrete
non-directional pattern. Also
available in 19mm thickness with
scored bands.

Akutex T

GYPROCK® CORNICE.
CSR Gyprock manufactures six popular machine
made cornice profiles which cater for many styles and
applications. Please refer to Table A1 in this section for
detailed product size and availability information. It is
recommended that cornice be attached with Gyprock®
Cornice Cement.

Fine Fissured

GYPROCK®
COVE CORNICE.

GYPROCK®
JAZZ CORNICE.

GYPROCK®
SYMPHONY CORNICE.

GYPROCK®
CONCERTO CORNICE.

GYPROCK®
TEMPO CORNICE.

GYPROCK®
CLASSIC CORNICE.

Concorde

Concorde: 16mm thickness
panels with various fissure sizes.
Directional Fissured: 16mm
thickness panels with an aligned
fissure pattern.
Sand Perforated: 16mm
thickness panels with a sand
grain-like texture and small round
perforations.
For detailed infor mation,
please refer to the ‘CSR
Gyprock ® Celotex Acoustic
Ceiling Systems’ guide.

Directional Fissured

Sand Perforated

ECOPHON™
CEILING PANELS.
™
Ecophon ceiling panels have a bonded glasswool core
for high acoustic absorption performance and the Akutex
T finish to provide an attractive easy care surface.
The range includes:
Focus: 20mm thickness panels with a range of edge
profiles. Also available for direct fixing to battens or
existing ceiling. The Akutex T surface is micro-perforated
vinyl paint that can be easily wiped clean.
Advantage: 15mm thickness panels with a glass tissue
facing to meet general conditions and good acoustic
performance.
Master: 40mm thickness panels with the highest
acoustic performance plus Akutex T finish.

A4.

The Red Book™

TABLE A1. GYPROCK PLASTERBOARD AVAILABILITY.
Colour shading behind each product approximates the colour of the product face liner sheets.
Thickness Width
Sheet Length (mm)
GYPROCK Product
mm
mm
2400 2700 3000 3600 4200 4800 5400 6000
1200
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
10
1350
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
✓W
CD
900
*✓WSN
W
W
RECESSED EDGE
13
1200 ✓SN
✓
✓
✓
✓W
✓
SN
✓WSN
1350
✓
✓
SN
✓W
10
1200
W
SN
WSN
W
CD SQUARE EDGE
13
1200
SN
SN
900
W
W
W
W
SUPACEIL™
10
1200 ✓SN
✓
✓
✓
W
✓
✓▲
✓
1350
✓
W
✓
✓
✓
✓
10
1350
✓
SOUNDCHEK™
13
1200
✓
1200
✓
✓SN
✓
✓
✓
10
AQUACHEK™
1350
✓WSN
SN
SN
WSN
✓SN
1200
13
✓W
✓
W
IMPACTCHEK™
13
1200
✓
10
1200
BRACECHEK™
✓
6.5
1200
FLEXIBLE
✓
10
1350
FLAMECHEK MR™
✓
13
1200
✓
✓W
✓
FYRCHEK™
16
1200 ✓SN
✓
✓W
✓
13
1200
✓WSN
SN
FYRCHEK™ MR
16
1200
W
SN
✓WSN
1200
PERFORATED SHEET 13
✓
25
600
SHAFT LINER PANEL
✓
55
–
✓
✓
✓
✓
COVE CORNICE
75
–
W
W
W
W
90
–
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
–
90
CLASSIC CORNICE
✓
–
90
TEMPO CORNICE
✓
–
90
CONCERTO CORNICE
✓
75
SYMPHONY CORNICE –
✓
–
75
JAZZ CORNICE
✓

Mass
kg/m2

6.5

8.5
6.5
8.5
7.2
9.3
13.0
8.0
10.4
10.3
8.4
4.25
8.0
10.5
12.5
10.7
13.5
10.0
19.8
0.68kg/m
0.93kg/m
1.3kg/m
1.2kg/m
1.6kg/m
1.4kg/m
0.90kg/m
1.8kg/m

Indicates available in: ✓ = Australia wide; W = Western Aust.; S = South Aust.; N = Northern Territory.
Indicates NOT available in: W = Western Aust.; S = South Aust.; N = Northern Territory.
* = Length is 2740. ▲ = 3300 and 3900mm lengths also available in WA only.
In Western Australia only, additional Recessed Edge/Square Edge products are available.
Additional sizes may be available in some products. Call your state office for details.

A5.

The Red Book™

in service. Additional information on CSR Bradford
Insulation materials is available by telephoning CSR
Bradford on (02) 9765 7100.

TABLE A2.
CSR FIBRE CEMENT WALLBOARD
AVAILABILITY AND MANUFACTURING
TOLERANCES.

Although insulation materials are often specified for
thermal resistance, they can contribute significantly to the
acoustic performance of wall and ceiling systems. CSR
GFC only recommends materials that have been tested
for fire and acoustic applications, have proven durability,
and are supported by their manufacturer for these
applications. Should other insulation materials be used,
the manufacturer of those materials must verify the
performance of the complete system, CSR GFC will not
support the performance of substitute materials.

CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard is manufactured in
the following sizes and available in all states.
CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard has two long edges
recessed to allow seamless jointing.
Thickness
(6mm RE = ✓) (9mm RE = ■) (12mm RE = ✤)
Length
mm.
1800
2400
2700
3000
3600
4200

Width mm.
1200
✓
✓■✤
✓■✤
✓■✤
✓
✓

900
✓
✓
✓

Mass 6mm thickness (nominal)
Mass 9mm thickness (nominal)
Mass 12mm thickness (nominal)
Length
Width
Thickness
Diagonals Difference (max)

1350

Acoustic Polyester insulation manufactured by Tontine
and Autex have been tested in acoustic applications by the
manufacturer and are specifically made for that purpose.
CSR accepts the use of Tontine and Autex Polyester
insulation.

✓
✓
✓

BRADFORD INSULATION.

9kg/m2
13.5kg/m2
18.3kg/m2
+0 to -4mm
+0 to -3mm
+0.25 to -0.25mm
3mm

INSULATION.
CSR GFC Fire and Acoustic Systems incorporate
CSR Bradford glasswool and rockwool insulation. These
products have undergone significant acoustic testing and
have a proven track record of performance and durability

TABLE A3. SPECIFIED INSULATION AND ABBREVIATIONS.
(Abbreviated names have been used in system tables).
Product

Abbreviation
™

75mm Bradford SoundScreen R2.0 batts (rockwool)

75mm Soundscreen™ 2.0 batts

60mm Bradford SoundScreen™ R1.6 batts (rockwool)

60mm Soundscreen™ 1.6 batts

45mm Bradford Rockwool Fibertex Partition batts, 38kg/m3

45mm Rockwool Partition batts

75mm Bradford Comfortseal™ R1.5 batts wall (glasswool)

75mm Comfortseal™ R1.5 batts

105mm Bradford Comfortseal™ R2.0 ceiling batts (glasswool)

105mm Comfortseal™ R2.0 batts

50mm Bradford Glasswool Partition batts, 10.8kg/m2

50mm Glasswool Partition batts

75mm Bradford Glasswool Partition batts, 10.8kg/m2

75mm Glasswool Partition batts

Autex ASB 2 (50mm) / Tontine TSB 2 (50mm) Polyester Insulation

ASB2/TSB2 Polyester batts

Tontine TSB 3 (65mm) / Autex ASB 3 (60mm) Polyester Insulation

ASB3/TSB3 Polyester batts

Tontine TSB 4 (75mm) / Autex ASB 4 (70mm) Polyester Insulation

ASB4/TSB4 Polyester batts

Tontine TSB 5 (85mm) / Autex ASB 5 (80mm) Polyester Insulation

ASB5/TSB5 Polyester batts

Tontine Blanket (25mm) 10kg/m3 Polyester Insulation

TBL/1025 Polyester

A6.

The Red Book™

STEEL COMPONENTS.
CSR GFC recommends steel building elements
manufactured by Rondo Building Services Pty Ltd, for
our systems. Top hats manufactured by Stramit, Lysaght
and Rhino Steel are also specified in some systems.

MASONRY ADHESIVE.
CSR Gyprock® Masonry Adhesive is used to adhere
GYPROCK plasterboards to CSR Hebel Aerated
Autoclaved Concrete substrates and all masonry substrates.
FASTENERS.
CSR Gyprock distributes a comprehensive range of
ring shank nails, hot-dip galvanised clouts, and screws for
use with timber and steel framing to accommodate most
installation applications.

General information on Rondo steel building
components is provided throughout this manual.
Additional information can be obtained from the Rondo
Building Services Pty Ltd office in your state, or telephone
1300 367 663.
CSR GFC will not support the performance of
substitute materials. It is the responsibility of the
manufacturer of the component to substantiate equivalent
performance in any particular application.

• GYPROCK Ring Shanked Nails.
Hardwood 25 x 2.8mm.
Softwood 30 x 2.8mm.
• GYPROCK Clouts.

CSR GYPROCK® RESILIENT MOUNT.
The CSR Gyprock® Resilient Mount is a proprietary
component used in conjunction with Rondo steel
sections for fastening GYPROCK plasterboard to a
supporting structure
while simultaneously
isolating it from
structure bor ne
vibration.

(Hot-dip galvanised).
30, 40 and 50mm x 2.8mm.
• GYPROCK Plasterboard Screws.
Nº6 Type ‘W’
for timber framing.
Nº6 Type ‘S’ Needle Point
for lightweight steel studs
and furring channel up
to 0.8mm thickness

This significantly reduces the amount of impact noise,
speech and low frequency sound filtering through to
rooms above, below or alongside the noise generating
room. The resilient mount has been design for use on
ceilings and can be used on walls provided plasterboard
with minimum mass of 15kg/m2 is fixed on the resilient
mount side of the wall. The mount can be used in fire
rated and non fire rated systems.

Nº6 Type ‘S’ Drill Point
for steel framing
0.8mm to 1.2mm
thickness.
GYPROCK Plasterboard Laminating Screws.
40mm x Nº10.
for laminating
layers of plasterboard together at butt joints and
control joints (where permitted).

STUD ADHESIVE.
CSR Gyprock® Acrylic Stud Adhesive is coloured
blue for easy identification. It can be used on both timber
and steel in temperatures not less than 5ºC.

CSR Fibre Cement Nails: Galvanised 2.0mm x
30mm for softwood and
2.0mm x 25mm for
hardwood.

Contact surfaces must be free of oil, grease or other
foreign materials before application. The adhesive is
applied with a broad knife to form 25mm diameter by
15mm high walnuts. This product is suitable for use with
pre-painted metal battens and some treated timbers.
Always
follow
directions
on
packag ing when
using CSR stud
adhesive.

CSR Fibre Cement Screws: For 6mm thickness
sheets only.
Nº 8 x 20mm self
embedding head, needle
point for light gauge steel
frames up to 0.8mm.
Nº 8 x 25mm self
embedding head, drill
point for heavy gauge
steel frames from 0.8mm to 1.2mm.

A7.

The Red Book™

TABLE A4. FIXING PLASTERBOARD TO SOFTWOOD.
1st Layer

Plasterboard
Thickness
10mm Plasterboard
13mm Plasterboard
16mm Plasterboard
2x6.5mm Plasterboard
13mm+16mm Plasterboard

2nd Layer

2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 25mm
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 40mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x30mm Ring Shank Nail
Bugle, NP
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 32mm
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 45mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x30mm Ring Shank Nail
Bugle, NP
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 32mm
3.15x65mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 50mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 25mm
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail Bugle, NP or 2.8x30mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 32mm
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 45mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x30mm Ring Shank Nail
Bugle, NP

3rd Layer

3.75x75mm Gal Nail or Nº8-15 x 65mm
Bugle, NP or Nº10-40 Laminating
3.75x75mm Gal Nail or Nº8-15 x 65mm
Bugle, NP or Nº10-40 Laminating

TABLE A5. FIXING PLASTERBOARD TO HARDWOOD.
Plasterboard
Thickness

2nd Layer

1st Layer

1 x 10mm Plasterboard
2 x 10mm Plasterboard
1 x 13mm Plasterboard
2 x 13mm Plasterboard
3 x 13mm Plasterboard
1, 2 or 3 x 16mm Plasterboard
2 x 6.5mm Plasterboard
13mm+16mm Plasterboard

2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 30mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 25mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 30mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 40mm
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 45mm
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 45mm
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 25mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 45mm
2.8x30mm Gal Nail or #6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP
Bugle, NP or 2.8x25mm Ring Shank Nail

3rd Layer

3.15x65mm Gal Nail or #8-15 x 65mm
Bugle, NP or #10-40 Laminating
3.15x65mm Gal Nail or #8-15 x 65mm
Bugle, NP or #10-40 Laminating

TABLE A6. FIXING FIBRE CEMENT AND
PLASTERBOARD TO TIMBER.
Fibre Cement
Thickness
6mm Wallboard
9mm Wallboard
6/9mm Wallboard over
13mm Plasterboard
6/9mm Wallboard over
16mm Plasterboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
6mm Wallboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
9mm Wallboard

1st Layer

2nd Layer

Nº8-15 x 20 CSK NP or
2.8x40mm Gal nail
Nº8-15 x 30 CSK NP or
2.8x40mm Gal nail
2.8x40mm Gal Nail or Nº6-18 x 32mm
Bugle, NP or 2.8x30mm Ring Shank Nail
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or
Nº6-18 x 32mm Bugle, NP
Nº8-15 x 20 CSK NP or
2.8x40mm Gal nail
Nº8-15 x 30 CSK NP or
2.8x40mm Gal nail

2.8x50mm Gal Nail or
Nº8-15x40mm CSK, NP
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or
Nº8-15x40mm CSK, NP
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or
Nº6-18 x 45mm Bugle, NP
2.8x50mm Gal Nail or
Nº6-18 x 45mm Bugle, NP

NOTES:
Predrill 9mm and 12mm Wallboard for easier fixing.
Fixings are suitable for internal applications only.
Type 'W' screws of equivalent length may be used as an alternative to ‘NP’.
NP = Needle Point Screws.
DP = Dill Point Screws.
Bugle = Bugle Head Screws.
CSK = Countersunk Head Screws.
GAL = Galvanised.

A8.

The Red Book™

TABLE A7. FIXING TO STEEL 0.5-0.8mm BMT.
1st Layer

2nd Layer

1 or 2 x 6.5mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

1 or 2 x 10mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, NP

1, 2 or 3 x 13mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, NP

#10-40 Laminating

1, 2 or 3 x 16mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 30mm Bugle, NP

#6-18 x 45mm Bugle, NP

#10-40 Laminating

13mm + 16mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

#6-18 x 45mm Bugle, NP

Plasterboard
Thickness

3rd Layer

TABLE A8. FIXING TO STEEL 0.8-2.0mm BMT.
1st Layer

2nd Layer

1 or 2 x 6.5mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

1 or 2 x 10mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, DP

1, 2 or 3 x 13mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, DP

#10-40 Laminating

1, 2 or 3 x 16mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 30mm Bugle, DP

#6-18 x 45mm Bugle, DP

#10-40 Laminating

13mm + 16mm Plasterboard

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

#6-18 x 45mm Bugle, DP

Plasterboard
Thickness

3rd Layer

TABLE A9. FIXING TO STEEL 0.5-0.8mm BMT.
Fibre Cement
Thickness

1st Layer

6mm Wallboard

#8-15 x 20 CSK NP or 9-18x20 Fibretek

9mm Wallboard

#8-15 x 30 CSK NP or 9-18x30 Fibretek

6/9mm Wallboard over
13mm Plasterboard
6/9mm Wallboard over
16mm Plasterboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
6mm Wallboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
9mm Wallboard

2nd Layer

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, NP

#8-15x40mm CSK NP

#6-18 x 30mm Bugle, NP

#8-15x40mm CSK NP

#8-15 x 20 CSK NP or 9-18x20 Fibretek

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, NP

#8-15 x 30 CSK NP or 9-18x30 Fibretek

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, NP

TABLE A10. FIXING TO STEEL 0.8-2.0mm BMT.
Fibre Cement
Thickness

1st Layer

6mm Wallboard

#8-15 x 20 CSK DP

9mm Wallboard

#8-15 x 30 CSK DP

6/9mm Wallboard over
13mm Plasterboard
6/9mm Wallboard over
16mm Plasterboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
6mm Wallboard
13/16mm Plasterboard over
9mm Wallboard

2nd Layer

#6-18 x 25mm Bugle, DP

#8-15x40mm CSK DP

#6-18 x 30mm Bugle, DP

#8-15x40mm CSK DP

#8-15 x 20mm CSK DP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, DP

#8-15 x 30mm CSK DP

#6-18 x 40mm Bugle, DP

Notes:
Predrill 9mm and 12mm Wallboard for easier fixing.
Fixings are suitable for internal applications only.
NP = Needle Point Screws.
DP = Dill Point Screws.
Bugle = Bugle Head Screws.
CSK = Countersunk Head Screws.
GAL = Galvanised.

A9.

The Red Book™

JOINTING ACCESSORIES AND
COMPOUNDS.
CSR GFC has a wide range of compounds, cements
and accessories for finishing plasterboard installations.

INTERNAL MOISTURE.
GYPROCK plasterboard must not be used where it
will be in contact with liquid water or constant relative
humidity above 90%.

Refer to the Gyprock® Residential Installation Guide,
NºGYP547 for detailed jointing and finishing
information.

GYPROCK Plasterboard CD, GYPROCK
SUPACEIL and GYPROCK SOUNDCHEK are
designed for use in dry areas only.

CSR GFC MASTICS AND SEALANTS.
CSR Gyprock® Fire Mastic must be used in fire rated
systems where caulking is indicated and is recommended
for caulking acoustic systems.

For wet area walls and external ceilings subject to
intermittent high humidity where plasterboard is
specified, GYPROCK AQUACHEK or GYPROCK
FYRCHEK MR or CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard must
be used. In all cases follow product installation brochures.

CSR Gyprock ® Wet Area Acr ylic Sealant is
recommended for sealing non fire rated wet area systems.

THERMAL PERFORMANCE.
The ‘R’ values for GYPROCK plasterboards are:
• 10mm thickness = 0.062 m2k/w.
• 13mm thickness = 0.074 m2k/w.
• 16mm thickness = 0.086 m2k/w.

Physical
Properties.

The ‘R’ values for CSR Fibre Cement are:
• 6mm thickness = 0.02 m2k/w.
• 7.5mm thickness = 0.025 m2k/w.
• 8mm thickness = 0.027 m2k/w.
• 9mm thickness = 0.03 m2k/w.

THERMAL AND MOISTURE STABILITY.
CSR GFC plasterboard and fibre cement products are
stable building materials when subjected to the normal
range of interior temperature and humidity conditions.

STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES.
CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard properties at
EMC*/Saturated.
• Density (kg/m3) 1350/–.
• Compressive Strength.
Parallel to sheet length (MPa) 20/15.
Parallel to sheet width (MPa) –/50.
• Flexural Strength.
Parallel to sheet length.
- ultimate (MPa) 13/9.
- yield (MPa) 10/6.
Parallel to sheet width.
- ultimate (MPa) 16/11.
- yield (MPa) 12/8.
• Modulus of Elasticity (GPa) 6/4.

Thermal coefficient of Linear Expansion (α).
• Plasterboard: α =16.2 x 10-6 mm (mm/ºC) in the
temperature range 4°C to 38°C.
• Fibre cement: α = 7.5 x 10-6/°C.
• Final length is
Lf = Li (1 + α∆T).

calculated

as

follows:

The hygrometric coefficient of expansion (δ).
• Plasterboard: δ =7.2 x 10 -6 mm/mm/% R.H.
(5% – 90% R.H.). Final length is calculated as follows:
Lf =Li (1 + δ∆RH).
• Fibre cement: δ = 0.18% (expansion from equilibrium
to saturated). Final length is calculated Lf = Li x δ x
(% of saturation).

NOTE: *EMC = Equilibrium Moisture Content.
A10.

The Red Book™

TABLE A11. IMPACT AND UDL RESISTANCE FOR
STUD SPACING AND LINING MATERIAL COMBINATIONS.
Typical Wall Application

Wall Lining Material

Soft Body Impact
Stud
Spacing Resistance

UDL
Resistance

Public corridor, stair
shaft and fire isolated exit
in a spectator stand,
sports stadium, cinema,
theatre, railway station,
bus or airport terminal.
(Some Class 9 Buildings)

1 x 13mm GYPROCK Impactchek

600mm 400mm

≥ 1.0 kPa

1 x 13mm GYPROCK Impactchek +
1 x 13mm GYPROCK Fyrchek

600mm 400mm

≥ 1.0 kPa

1 x 13mm GYPROCK Fyrchek +
1 x 6mm CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard

600mm 350mm

≥ 1.0 kPa

1 x 9mm CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard

600mm 350mm

≥ 1.0 kPa

2 x 16mm GYPROCK Fyrchek

400mm 350mm

≥ 1.0 kPa

Walls of stairways and
service shafts and fire
isolated exits generally.

2 x 13mm GYPROCK Fyrchek

600mm 175mm

≥ 0.35 kPa

1 x 16mm GYPROCK Fyrchek

600mm 150mm

≥ 0.35 kPa

Fire resisting walls
generally.

1 x 13mm GYPROCK Fyrchek

600mm 125mm

≥ 0.25 kPa

Walls generally.

1 x 10mm GYPROCK Impactchek

600mm 300mm

≥ 0.25 kPa

1 x 6mm CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard

600mm 250mm

≥ 0.25 kPa

IMPACT RESISTANCE.
GYPROCK plasterboard of 10mm and 13mm
thickness provide adequate resistance to soft body impacts
likely in domestic or light commercial use respectively.

TABLE A12. FIRE HAZARD PROPERTIES.
GYPROCK
Product

EFHI

SMOGRARC

Group
Number

10 – 13mm
Plasterboard CD

13/0/1/2

0

1

10mm
SUPACEIL™

14/0/1/1

0

1

10mm
SOUNDCHEK™

0/0/0/3

0

1

10 – 13mm
AQUACHEK

13/0/2/3

0

1

6.5mm
FLEXIBLE

13/0/1/2

0

1

13mm
Perforated Sheet

0/0/0/3

0

1

13 – 16mm
FYRCHEK™

0/0/0/3

0

1

13 – 16mm
FYRCHEK MR™

13/0/2/2

0

1

25mm
SHAFT LINER

0/0/0/3

0

1

10mm
FLAMECHEK MR™

13/0/2/2

0

1

13mm
IMPACTCHEK™

0/0/0/3

0

1

13mm
Perforated Panels

0/0/0/4

0

1

10mm FRESHTONE™
Diamond White

0/0/0/3

0

1

10mm FRESHTONE™
UltraMatt & Platinum

0/0/0/3

0

1

AS ISO9705 room burn test or AS/NZS3837 the
cone calorimeter test. The room burn test is a large scale
test to deter mine SMOGRA RC , and the cone
calorimeter is a small scale test to determine a Group
Number.

10mm
SUPATONE™

13/0/2/3

0

1

10 – 13mm
Unpainted Panel

13/0/1/3

0

1

Celotex

0/0/0/2

0

2

Ecophon ADVANTAGE

0/0/0/2

0

1

Ecophon FOCUS

0/0/0/3

0

1

Please refer to Table A12 for Gyprock® plasterboard
and CSR Fibre Cement product performance details.

Fibre Cement Wallboard

0/0/0/0

0

1

Walls lined with Gyprock Fyrchek™, Impactchek™
and CSR Fibre Cement Wallboard can meet various
requirements of Specification C1.8 of the Building Code
of Australia 2004. This clause specifies resistance to
Uniform Distributed Loads (UDLs), surface indentation
and impact from a weighted sand bag that is dropped from
a specified height. Refer to Table A11 for performance
details.
FIRE HAZARD PROPERTIES.
The BCA limits the materials used in Class 2 to 9
buildings by controlling the Fire Hazard properties of
linings. These properties may be assessed by two methods.
AS/NZS1530.3 (Simultaneous determination of,
ignitability, flame propagation, heat release and smoke
release) known as Early Fire Hazard Indices. This method
is expected to be phased out for wall and ceiling lining
materials.

NOTES: EFHI = Early Fire Hazard Indices (Ignitability/Spread of
Flame/Heat Evolved/Smoke Developed.
SMOGRARC = Smoke Growth Rate Index

A11.

The Red Book™

Material &
Construction
Standards.

HOW IS THE SPECIMEN ASSESSED?
The test specimen is heated in the prescribed manner
until the failure criteria has been reached, or is terminated
by agreement between parties.
Assessment cr iter ia are represented by three
performance measurements known as ‘Fire Resistance
Levels’ (FRL).
Structural Adequacy.

All materials and procedures shall comply with the
following standards where applicable, and all additional
details contained in CSR Gyprock and CSR Fibre
Cement Technical Literature.

Failure occurs when the specimen collapses under load.
Integrity.
Failure occurs when the specimen develops cracks or
openings through which flames or hot gases can pass.

Plasterboard Manufacture.
AS/NZS2588 : 1998 ‘Gypsum plasterboard’.

Insulation.

Plasterboard Installation.

Failure occurs when the average temperature of the
unexposed surface of the specimen increases by more than
140°C above the initial temperature, or the temperature
at any point of the unexposed surface increases by more
than 180°C above the initial temperature.

AS/NZS2589 : 1997 ‘Gypsum linings in residential
and light commercial construction – Application and
Finishing’.
Plasterboard in Wet Areas.

The test performance of the specimen is expressed as
a ‘Fire Resistance Level’, which indicates the number of
minutes for which the specimen fulfils the requirements
of the three fire test criteria.

AS3740 : 2004 ‘Waterproofing of Wet Areas Within
Residential Buildings’.

Fire Testing.

These numbers are then rounded down to the nearest
regulatory requirement.
The common regulatory ‘FRL’ requirements are:

Fire resistance testing is conducted to the Australian
Standard AS1530 – part 4 ‘Fire Resistance Tests of
Elements of Building Construction’.
This standard gives the test method and criteria of
failure for the various elements of construction such as
partition walls, floor/ceilings and roof/ceilings.
The specimen assemblies are built into the test furnace
and subjected to furnace temperatures in accordance
with AS1530.4 ‘Standard Time vs Temperature Curve’.

Non Loadbearing

Loadbearing

– /30/30

30/30/30

– /60/60

60/60/60

– /90/90

90/90/90

– /120/120

120/120/120

– /180/180

180/180/180

For Example: – /120/120.

FIG. A3.
STANDARD TIME vs TEMPERATURE CURVE.

• The dash indicates no requirement for ‘Structural
Adequacy’, which applies to all non loadbearing
systems.

1200
1100

TEMPERATURE (°C)

• The first 120 indicates ‘Integrity’ for 120 minutes.
1000

• The second 120 indicates ‘Insulation’ for 120 minutes.

900

For any specified FRL, a system having equal or
higher respective criteria may be used. Some systems
have multiple FRLs stated. FRLs expressed as –/y/z
relate to non-loadbearing walls; FRLs expressed as x/y/z
relate to loadbearing walls; or FRLs expressed as x/y/z*
relate to walls with additional design limits.

800
700
600
500
0

30

60

90

120 150 180 210 240 270 300 330 360
TIME (minutes)

A12.

The Red Book™

Other paths are via open windows, ducts, doorways
and suspended ceilings. Noise sources that have a high
degree of low frequency noise such as traffic, aircraft and
DVD sound systems have more potential for flanking
transmission through the building structure.

WHAT IS RESISTANCE TO THE
INCIPIENT SPREAD OF FIRE?
Ceiling systems may be required to achieve a
‘Resistance to the Incipient Spread of Fire’.
This requires the ceiling to provide adequate thermal
insulation to prevent combustibles in a roof/ceiling or
floor/ceiling cavity from igniting for the specified time.

Transmission of this type of noise follows structural
load paths and can be controlled by breaking these load
paths or providing complete separation of the structure.

The Building Code of Australia requirement for some
ceiling systems is to provide ‘Resistance to the Incipient
Spread of Fire (RISF), into the space above itself, for not
less than 60 minutes’. Systems that meet this requirement
are indicated in the system tables.

Noise sources that generate a high amount of mid and
high frequency noise, such as services and speech, tend
to transmit via air paths and direct transmission in
lightweight construction.
Typical problem areas for this type of transmission
include doors and door frames, glazing, suspended ceiling
cavities and ductwork. Practical methods for addressing
common situations within buildings can be seen in
Section ‘Z’.

FIRE HAZARD PROPERTIES.
Fire hazard properties of wall and ceiling linings in
some classes of building are specified by the BCA. Refer
to Table A12 for fire hazard properties of CSR GFC
products.

FIG A4.
COMMON FLANKING TRANSMISSION PATHS.

SMOKE PROOF WALLS.
Smoke proof walls are required in some Class 9a
buildings, and they must be built from non-combustible
materials.

1. Ceiling plenums, floors, walls.
2. Poor seals between structural
elements and around service
penetrations.
3. External air-borne paths.

Where smoke proof walls do not require an FRL, steel
framed wall systems clad with GYPROCK Plasterboard
CD (eg. CSR 010) may be used.

4. Heating and ventilation ducting.
5. Rigid plumbing connections and
penetrations.
6. Back-to-back cabinets and
switches/power outlets.

1
1

4

Fire rated smoke proof walls should be selected from
the steel framed systems (refer to Section ‘B’) with an
appropriate FRL.

2

2

3

2
3

Building
Acoustics.

2

6
4

2
3

6
5
1

Building acoustics can be separated into sound
absorption and sound transmission.

SOUND IMPACT RATINGS.
The BCA has performance requirements relating to
sound impact for floors and some walls.

Sound absorption relates to control of sound that is
generated within a room and how it affects people in that
room.

For floors, this is specified as a maximum value such
as: Lnw+CI = 62. Note that lower values of Lnw+CI
indicates better acoustic impact performance.

Sound transmission relates to sound that passes through
a dividing element (direct sound, controlled by the
element’s sound insulation), and through the surrounding
structure (indirect or flanking transmission).

Walls required to have an impact rating must meet the
definition of ‘Discontinuous Construction’. This means
that wall leaves must be separated by at least 20mm and
no mechanical connection is permitted, except that
masonry may have resilient ties.

Methods of controlling noise in buildings can be
based on systems, structure and lining materials and their
absorption and transmission properties.

Systems that meet this specification are noted in the
appropriate system specifications.

FLANKING TRANSMISSION.
Flanking sounds reach adjoining areas by indirect
paths, rather than through the dividing element. The
walls, floors and ceilings that surround the dividing
element are the main paths for flanking transmission.
A13.

The Red Book™

Building
Acoustics in
Practice.

TABLE A13. ACOUSTIC INTEGRITY.
Wall System

Chance of Gaps
Being Left
Unsealed

Effect of
Defects on
Performance

High

High
Degradation

High

High
Degradation

Low

High
Degradation

Low

Low
Degradation

Low

Low
Degradation

Single skin masonry
wall

SYSTEM PERFORMANCE.
The Rw, Rw + Ctr and Ln,w+CI values in this
manual refer to expected results of a laboratory test on an
element.
The mathematical model used to make the predictions
has been verified statistically on a large body of test data.
The accuracy of the prediction is generally within
measurement tolerance of results from different acoustic
laboratories, that is 2dB.

Masonry with stud
uninsulated

All care has been taken with preparation of these
predictions and it is assumed that construction is strictly
in accordance with this manual and relevant Gyprock and
Fibre Cement installation guides.

Single stud,
uninsulated

CSR GFC recommends that an acoustic engineer
be consulted for all projects where acoustics are important.
SITE PERFORMANCE vs. LABORATORY
PERFORMANCE.
As houses are not built like laboratories, it is unlikely
that performance measured in ideal test conditions will
be achieved in a building. Designers should take care to
select systems compatible with the support structure to
provide the desired level of insulation.

Single stud,
insulated

Double stud,
insulated

Field performance is typically 10% less than laboratory
performance. Additionally, some forms of surrounding
construction have upper limits unrelated to the rating of
the element. In these cases, the difference between
laboratory and site performance could be larger.

BACKGROUND NOISE.
Low levels of noise transmitted from other areas can
be partially obscured by background noise.

ACOUSTIC INTEGRITY.
The acoustic integrity of a system can be influenced
by the combination of elements that make up the system.
Single leaf and uninsulated systems are more dependant
on high quality installation, as relatively minor defects can
cause major degradation of the system performance.

Where the background noise level is low, such as in
remote areas, consideration should be given to providing
a higher than standard level of sound insulation.
VARIATION IN OCCUPANT
PERCEPTION OF NOISE.
Tolerance for noise varies greatly between people,
and variations of up to 15dB can be considered acceptable.
This means consideration should be given to the
occupant’s expectation of the inter nal acoustic
environment. Users of concert halls and practice rooms
may have higher acoustic expectations than guests of
inner city hotels.

Building systems that allow defects to be hidden from
view have a higher chance of gaps being left unsealed,
making them more vulnerable to perfor mance
degradation.
The likelihood and effect of defects occurring with
typical systems is shown in Table A13.

A14.

The Red Book™

DESIGNING FOR OPTIMUM
SOUND INSULATION.
Acoustic design issues are different for every building,
and for internal and external noise sources.

• Systems that meet the new BCA minimum Rw+Ctr
requirements may have lower performance than
systems that meet the cor responding R w
requirements.

When designing apartments and townhouses,
reference can be made to the Association of Australian
Acoustical Consultants (AAAC) ‘Acoustical Star Ratings
for Apartments and Townhouses’ (www.aaac.org.au), a
rating system that considers both internal and external
sound transmission. It provides a graded rating system for
the acoustic quality of apartments, from 2 Star to 6 Star,
and is intended to provide assurance that an occupant’s
expectations of quality are met.

• Var iation in occupant perceptions of noise,
e.g. high, medium or low cost housing.
• Background noise levels may be very low.
• The lack of simplicity in construction could reduce
actual performance.
MINIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVELS
FOR EXTERNAL WALLS.
The BCA does not set minimum performance levels
of transmission for external walls. Guidance should be
sought from an acoustic consultant or local authority for
setting the design requirements of these elements, as they
may be affected by road or aircraft noise.

Where expectations are not met, remedial measures
can be expensive and inconvenient.
Some local government areas have adopted the AAAC
4 Star level as a minimum. This exceeds the current
BCA requirements in some respects.

Issues that may affect the design levels for external walls
are:

MINIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVELS FOR
INTERNAL WALLS AND CEILINGS.
The BCA sets out minimum performance levels for
internal walls and ceilings based on acceptable standards
for affordable housing. The performance requirements are
in terms of Rw, Rw+Ctr and Ln,w+CI.

• Var iation in occupant perceptions of noise,
e.g. high, medium or low cost housing.
• Background noise levels are low.
• Flanking transmission of the surrounding structure,
particularly at windows and doors.
• The lack of simplicity in construction could reduce
actual performance.

These levels may need to be increased for:
• Var iation in occupant perceptions of noise,
e.g. high, medium or low cost housing.

Detailing for
Acoustics.

• Local authorities have higher requirements such as the
AAAC Star rating system.
• Background noise levels are low.
• Flanking transmission of the surrounding structure.
Lightweight structures can be more prone to low
frequency flanking.

GAPS, CRACK AND HOLES.
Small openings allow airborne sound to pass through
an element and can significantly reduce sound insulation
performance. For optimum sound insulation, the element
must be airtight.

• The presence of services will vary which BCA
provisions are applicable, and could mean separate
construction is required.
• The lack of simplicity in construction could reduce
actual performance.

Perimeters and penetrations for services can be sealed
with CSR Gyprock Fire Mastic. It is a dense, flexible
compound capable of accommodating minor building
movement. Where major movement is expected, use a
polyurethane fire and acoustic rated sealant.

MINIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVELS
FOR SERVICES.
The BCA sets out minimum performance levels for
isolation of noise from services based on acceptable
standards for affordable housing. The performance levels
are in terms of Rw and Rw+Ctr.

For systems that are multi-layered, such as masonry
composite systems, each layer must be air tight, as services
such as power points and switches can act as airborne
flanking paths. To remedy this, consider using acoustic
rated power boxes, the Gyprock® Silencer, and insulation
in the cavity. Refer to flanking details, Section ‘Z’.

These levels may need to be increased for:
• The nature of the noise source and adjacent occupant
activity. Some noises are particularly annoying to
occupants.

A15.

The Red Book™

SOUND FLANKING VIA
PERIMETER WALLS.
This is similar to flanking via the ceiling. The
recommended detail is for the partition wall to continue
through the perimeter wall.

SOUND FLANKING VIA HEAD & BASE.
Particular attention should be paid to sealing the joints
at the top and base of walls with flexible sealant. Such
joints are usually required to accommodate some building
movement.

Details to treat sound flanking in this situation are
given in Section ‘Z’ for a range of plasterboard panel
linings.

SOUND FLANKING VIA THE CEILING.
This is a common source of sound transmission,
particularly where the ceiling has low sound insulation.

SOUND FLANKING A FLOOR VIA
THE PARTITION BELOW.
This source of sound transmission particularly affects
lightweight floors and walls. Both impact and airborne
sound can travel through the floor and support walls.

It is recommended that, wherever possible, walls pass
through the ceiling and be sealed to the floor or roof. This
can maintain the desired sound rating of the wall.
Details to treat sound flanking in this situation are
given in Section ‘Z’ for a range of plasterboard and
acoustic panel linings.

Refer to Section ‘Z’ for potential performance of
various construction details.

SOUND FLANKING VIA ELECTRICAL AND
SERVICE PENETRATIONS.
Electrical power outlets, switch boxes and similar
penetrations produce areas of low sound insulation in a
partition. These should not be placed back to back as they
could limit the acoustic rating of the wall.

SOUND FLANKING VIA THE FLOOR.
This is also a common source of sound transmission,
particularly where the floor is lightweight and continues
under the wall.
High flanking transmission performance can be
achieved if there is a break in construction, or floor slabs
are thick enough.

Penetrations should be avoided where sound insulation
is important. Treatment options include using acoustic
rated power boxes, the Gyprock® Silencer, and insulation
in the cavity. Refer to Section ‘Z’ for potential performance
of various construction details

Refer to Section ‘Z’ for potential performance of
various construction details.

A16.

The Red Book™

SOUND FLANKING VIA DOWNLIGHTS.
Downlights installed in ceilings penetrate the linings
and create a path through which sound can pass.
Insulation may be ineffective as it must be clear of the light
fitting and transformer to reduce the likelihood of the
light overheating.

dB(A) – The ‘A’-scale and dB(A) noise level are
used to degrade the performance of a sound level meter
to simulate what humans hear. The human ear is not a
perfect listening device, it is poor at hearing low frequency
noise. dB(A) is used to compare measured sound with
perceived sound.

When ceiling downlights are required in acoustically
sensitive (non fire rated) locations, fire and sound rated
lights can be used. Refer to manufacturer’s information
for limitations.

A number of noise criteria refer to, and are measured
in dB(A). The larger the dB(A) level the louder the
noise.
Ln,w – Weighted Normalised Impact Sound
Pressure Level. A measure of the noise impact
performance of a floor/ceiling. It is measured in very
controlled conditions in a laboratory and is characterised
by how much impact sound reaches the receiving room
via the ceiling/floor from a standard tapping machine test.

Refer to Service Systems Section ‘F’ for performance
details for various combinations of linings and downlights
in selected systems.

Definitions.

The lower the number the better the performance.

Rw – Weighted Sound Reduction Index. A
measure of the sound insulation performance of a building
element. Rw is a laboratory measurement similar to
STC.

L’nT,w – Weighted Standardised Field Impact
Sound Pressure Level. A measure of the noise impact
performance of a floor/ceiling. It is similar to Ln,w except
it is measured in the field and is therefore subject to the
inherent inaccuracies involved in such a measurement.

All BCA references to STC have been removed and
upgraded to refer to either Rw or Rw+Ctr. Rw is
measured and calculated using the procedures from
AS1276 and AS1191. The related field measurement is
abbreviated as DnT,w.

The lower the number the better the performance.
CI – A spectrum adaptation term used to modify the
measured impact sound pressure level, Ln,w or L’nT,w.

The higher the number the better the insulation
performance.

Impact sound is generated by a laboratory grade tapping
machine placed on the floor to be tested. This tapping
machine does not accurately simulate the noise of a person’s
foot steps on the floor above, so the CI term was developed
to more closely simulate foot step noise.

DnT,w – Weighted Standardised Field Level
Difference. A measurement of the sound insulation
performance of a building element. It describes the
difference in noise level on each side of a wall or floor,
and indicates the level of speech privacy between spaces.
It is measured in the field and is therefore subject to the
inherent inaccuracies involved in such a measurement.

The term is defined in ISO717-2. The Ln,w or L’nT,w
alone is sufficient to characterise concrete floors covered
with carpet. Other types of floors such as timber joist
floors, bare concrete floors or polished timber or tiles laid
on concrete floors require the CI term to properly
characterise footstep noise.

The higher the number the better the insulation
performance.

Timber joist floors can have a CI value slightly positive.
Concrete floors with an effective covering such as carpet
have CI terms approximately equal to 0dB. Concrete
floors with a hard, or less effective covering, can have CI
terms varying between –15dB and 0dB.

Ctr – A spectrum adaptation value used to modify the
sound insulation performance of a wall or floor. Sound
insulation performance can be described by Rw or the
DnT,w but these are not accurate for all noises, especially
for low frequency bass noise from modern stereo systems.
Ctr values are negative value which is added to either the
R w or D nT,w . AS/NZS1276 - sets out testing
methodologies for the sound insulation properties of
building elements and incorporates these factors and
explains their use.
Smaller negative Ctr values are more favourable than
large negative values.

A17.

The Red Book™

NRC – Noise Reduction Coefficient. A measure
of the ability of a material to absorb sound.
NRC is generally a number between 0 and 1. A
material with an NRC rating of 1 absorbs 100 % of
incoming sound, that is, no sound is reflected back from
the material.
STC – Sound Transmission Class. A measure of
the sound insulation performance of a building element.
It is measured in very controlled conditions in a
laboratory.
STC is an old term and is now obsolete. The BCA has
replaced all references to STC with Rw.
NOTE: Source Building Code of Australia, Sound
Insulation Guideline.

A18.

The Red Book™



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