In basic,
Fiber cement board is a composite material made of cement reinforced with cellulose fibers used for both commercial and domestic applications as ceiling, partition, flooring, cladding... it can withstand weathers from strong sun to heavy rain and can be used for exteriorwork.
And Gypsum board is a panel made of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. The gypsum board is used to make interior walls and ceilings because it is produced from compact gypsum mineral powder which is very fragile, therefore plaster board liner has been used as covering board on both sides to increase strength and durability. If exposed to weathers, the liner on both sides will not be able to last long result from a friable gypsum powder core.
The main similar features for both boards are good insulation, fire resistant, non-causing, and toxic substances. However, there are many differences between them:
1. Fiber cement boards are far more durable and impact-resistant than gypsum board. However, Fiber cement boards are far heavier than gypsum board.
2. You can cut gypsum board easily with a utility knife. But, you’ll need a circular saw, fitted with a heavy-duty blade to cut fiber cement board. In actual operation, fiber cement boards are usually installed by professionals.
3. Fiber cement boards are available in two types: water-resistant and waterproof. For gypsum board, only do water-resistant by moisture resistant paper(the green-colored one ).Because the core of gypsum board is still gypsum which is not waterproof.
4. The fiber cement board with a thickness of more than 16 mm can also be used for floor as well while the gypsum board cannot even if it has the same or greater thickness.
5. Another feature of fiber cement board is the ability to overlay textiles on top by using adhesive plaster glue and also the ability to apply another layer of plastering cement as well. The surface of the fiber cement board has two sides, the smooth side and the rough side, which has different function. For example, in general, the smooth side is used for display surface while the rough side is recommended for overlaying textiles to help tiling adhere better.
In fact, gypsum board should not be used for wet applications and as tile backing boards, because it will be very dangerous when the house becomes old, it may be collapse at some undetermined time.
6. gypsum boards has lower price and lighter weight but also has smoother surface and it gives a nice and smooth touch on the edge joints between the boards.
Both Fiber Cement Board and Gypsum Board are very different in their composition and uses, so there is no true way to compare them. It is best to choose a board based on requirements and location.
