GVL for the floor: the pros and cons. We make a floor from GVL: the correct laying of gypsum-fiber sheets How to properly lay GVL on a wooden floor

GVL (gypsum fiber sheet) is a finishing material made of gypsum, which is reinforced with technological additives and loose cellulose. The main distinguishing feature of GVL is the homogeneous structure of the material, which does not have a cardboard shell. GVL for the floor have a higher density than drywall sheets, this adds strength. GVL differ in scope and characteristics (normal and moisture resistant).

It is advisable to lay gypsum fiber sheets only on a dry type of floor, a wet screed has too much moisture. If, however, GVL is laid on a wet screed, then it is necessary to wait for it to dry completely in order to prevent moisture from penetrating to the floors below. With the use of sheets, the screed is made in a dry way, and after it, you can immediately proceed with the installation of the finishing layer of the floor.

Gypsum fiber board is a pressed material for the floor, in which fluffed waste paper acts as reinforcement, and gypsum acts as an element of communication between parts of the sheets. This combination significantly strengthens the positions of GVL, especially in comparison with drywall and fiberboard, and in terms of moisture resistance, it completely leaves competitors behind. In addition to all the advantages, GVL boards do not burn and are made of environmentally friendly materials, which, of course, gives them an advantage when choosing finishing materials for the floor.

Most finishes can only be applied to a leveled floor and require additional preparation. Not all of them have good indicators of heat and sound insulation. As a finish coat, you can use a dry version of the floor screed, made on the basis of GVL, which will become a good substrate for almost all materials, and a rough floor covering and a good insulation.

Features of the use of GVL

Laying GVL can also be carried out on structures made of wood and reinforced concrete. To do this, it is necessary to lay a waterproofing material on the base, on which the final assembly of the screed sheets will take place.

With this approach, sound and heat insulating components, such as polystyrene foam boards, can also be included in the layers. The underfloor heating system may well be covered with sheets, because any type of warm floors can easily be accommodated in the free undersheet space. Installation is carried out in a dry way, which of course will save money and time for work. Thanks to GVL, the basic version of the floor is as smooth and already insulated as possible. If you choose this flooring technology, be prepared to purchase small sheets that are 1.5 * 1 m wide and 1-1.2 cm thick.

GVL sheets are laid in two layers, or floor slabs already glued by the manufacturer are used, which are equipped with folds at the ends, which is a much better option.

Before installing the plates, it is necessary to insulate the floor with expanded clay, which will help to level the coating well. A vapor barrier placed under expanded clay can be a polyethylene film with a thickness of 200 microns, but depending on the type of ceiling, you can replace the film with roofing paper or glassine.

Laying the floor

Before starting work on the area of ​​the entire room, it is necessary to fix it with a thickness of 1 cm, which will simultaneously absorb the noise of tools and prevent significant deformations due to temperature fluctuations.

After laying the tape, it is necessary to cut off its extra centimeters along the upper edge of the edge of the planned floor. Next, a vapor barrier substrate is placed on the polyethylene floor, and each strip must be overlapped on the previous one.

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Expanded clay with a fractionation of no more than 0.5 cm is distributed over the surface covered with a film, while the guides must be set according to the level and leveling filling, after which the floor should be leveled using the rule.

After completing the pouring of expanded clay with a rammer, if the layer thickness is more than 10 cm, this work should be done with particular care. When tamping, you should pay special attention to the areas near the walls, doors and in the corners of the room.

From the corner closest to the entrance, the laying of the first layer of GVL for the floor begins, after which PVA glue or a special adhesive mastic is applied to it. After applying the bonding substance, a second layer is placed, while always in the opposite direction. The technology of such laying provides that during the laying of the upper layers of GVL, their fragments will need to be connected with fasteners and glued along the folds.

The step with which the sheets will be fixed should not be more than 30 cm. If you purchased sheets with a thickness greater than 1 cm, the length of the screw for fastening must be at least 1.9 cm, but in the case of installing plates with 1.2 cm thick, you will need self-tapping screws with a length of 2.3 cm.

When installing the basic version of the floor, it is necessary to ensure that when gluing the GVL, the remains of the glue are immediately removed, which will protrude near the walls and at the junctions. If it is planned to lay carpet or laminate on the sheets, then the joints and the remaining seams must be puttied.

After laying, fixing and puttying the second layer, the floor surface should be primed. When purchasing a primer, make sure that the specifications show compatibility with the adhesive that will be used when laying the screed.

Sheets are cut only after laying their last row, i.e. against the wall opposite the place where the installation began. This is necessary for high-quality work, which will result in a large spacing of the seams (more than 25 cm), but at the same time it is worth making sure that the seam width of the first layer is not more than 1-2 mm.

Floors glued at the factory should be laid by analogy with small format slabs, so the process will be completed faster. It is necessary to join the sheets with the help of folds covered with glue. The folds themselves, adjacent to the wall, must be cut after laying, while fastening the tiles.

If the filling for leveling has a thickness of 10 cm or more, draft floors are made from GVL in three layers. In the uppermost of the layers, the size of the working material can be 2.5 * 1.2 m.

If gypsum-fiber sheets act as protection for a warm floor, then the assembly of a dry-type screed begins with the installation of polystyrene foam boards.


Laying polystyrene boards.

When creating basic underfloor heating with the help of bedding, the insulation is laid out directly on the bedding itself (or on the film).

Dry screed options based on GVL

Dry gypsum fiber screed can be of three types.

Base floors of prefabricated type, placed on a 2 cm high leveling expanded clay bed, which are recommended for installation on an insulated base without height differences.

A draft version of the floor on the surface with foam insulation, the thickness of which is 2-3 cm, it can be used if the floor requires insulation, and the base itself has slight irregularities.

Prefabricated version of the screed on expanded polystyrene slabs laid on expanded clay bedding, with a thickness of 2 cm, which is suitable for uneven floors, which also need to be insulated.

The screed must have the following components.

Steam and waterproofing layer, which separates the floors and other parts of the multilayer floor. If the floor is reinforced concrete, a polyethylene film will be an ideal separator, but if the floor is wooden, glassine is used.

Compensation and soundproofing gasket in the form of an edge tape, which can be fixed with screws or glue. The gasket is fixed immediately before the installation of the prefabricated screed in the room, and the gaskets themselves can be insulating, foam, made of basalt wool and other materials.

Leveling layer, which is done according to one of the above methods. GVL boards, two- or one-layer, tightened with screws or glue.

Features of the acquisition of GVL

For the floor, only small format slabs with dimensions of 1.5 * 1 m, with a thickness of 10 mm are suitable, and on the markets there is also a GVL thickness of 12 mm and a width of 1.2 mm, which are not so often used for the floor. The sheets are laid in two layers, therefore, they need to be purchased twice the size of the room area. Remember that GVL are wall and floor, as well as moisture resistant and ordinary, moisture resistant are sold with a moisture-repellent mixture.

If in the process of laying the floor you also need to insulate it, then you need to know that insulators can be of three types.

Fibrous - glass and mineral wool, which look like cotton candy, but instead of molten sugar, it has the same granite or glass. If the choice fell on the fibrous type of floor, then it is better to look for foreign products, because. domestic goods cannot be packed in living rooms.

Styrofoam - similar to polystyrene, they have heat-saving qualities and last a long time, but at the same time they are expensive and flammable.

Backfill - expanded clay, crushed stone, slag pumice, which are poorly insulated, but are inexpensive.

Hello, friends! I have already told you how I discovered the possibilities of a dry floor screed. Not so long ago, I decided to introduce my cousin to technology: he is just doing repairs. When I told him that laying GVL on the floor could be an alternative to the dirty wet method, at first he did not really believe it. After all, people tend to stick to old methods, even if they are outdated. I had to explain the process step by step, but in the end the repair took significantly less time. If you want to learn new methods, let's figure out the intricacies together.

Pros and cons of GVL for the floor

The advantages of gypsum fiber floors include:

  • installation is carried out exclusively using the “dry method”, which means that only dry components will be used in the work. The advantage, in this case, is that a comfortable macroclimate and humidity level will remain in the room, both during the repair and after it;
  • the democratic price of the material itself and the repair as a whole, because it can be done by hand, I do not hire a team of professionals;
  • the shortest installation time;
  • no special knowledge and skills are required to work with drywall sheets, they are easily processed and cut;
  • GVLV themselves are relatively light and perfectly even, which indicates that they are suitable for laying upper floor coverings without additional surface treatment of sheets with tiles, linoleum, carpet, etc.;
  • drywall allows you to create additional sound and thermal insulation of the room;
  • the low weight of the product allows you to create such a two-layer floor surface that will not put much pressure on the plates overlapping the base.

Laying GVL on the floor: preliminary alignment

It should be noted right away that drywall can only be laid on the floor if the surface is perfectly flat. For leveling, you will need to use a screed, the craftsmen advise using dry bedding, which may include sand, perlite or expanded clay. Perlite bedding is the most effective, because it has a very fine grind, which allows you to create the most uniform and dense layer on the subfloor. Of the minuses, only its expensive cost can be noted, so experts recommend adding sand to it (3: 1). Expanded clay is its good analogue, firstly, it has a more affordable price, and, secondly, it has excellent heat-insulating and sound-proofing properties.


First you need to cover the base with a polyethylene film (preferably in 3 layers), it will serve as a barrier for the dry leveling compound from the negative effects of moisture, which will penetrate from below. It is very important to take into account here that the film is sold in rolls, so its width may not be enough, in which case you need to put it in several strips (the edges should not be less than 20 cm), otherwise excess moisture will ruin all bulk components. If the floor has a wooden base, then put you need better roofing material or special bitumen paper.

A very important property of drywall sheets is porosity (it contributes to the fact that the material absorbs moisture very well), which leads to an increase in size, so a special technology has been developed, which consists in leaving small gaps between the sheet and the wall. They must be finished with waterproofing tape.

After the base is completely covered with film or paper, you can proceed to dry backfill. Here you need to take into account the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, if it is small, then you need to fill up the entire surface completely, but if the room is large, then to facilitate work and achieve the best result, you need to divide the floor into several sections using rails. The main thing at this stage is to achieve maximum evenness and smoothness of dry elements.

Laying GVL on the floor: material preparation

To achieve maximum service life, gypsum fiber for the floor must be subjected to the adaptation process, that is, left for 10-15 hours in the room where it will be used, therefore, they must be bought and delivered in advance. This is very important, because during this time the sheets will get used not only to the temperature in the room, but also to the level of humidity.

In this case, you need to pay attention to the fact that the drywall floor must be made using special sheets designed specifically for flooring. If you have any questions, be sure to consult with a specialist who will tell you which material is best suited and in what quantities.


How to lay GVL on the floor

You should proceed to laying only after all the preparatory work has come to an end. To do this, you will need to purchase and prepare a drill, a screwdriver and a jigsaw in advance.

Floors from GVL should be started to be installed precisely from the doorway, because the leveling dry components at the door are not protected by anything and it is strictly forbidden to walk on them. Its own weight will leave deep pits on the surface, which will later create voids in the floor covering, and they, in turn, form the effect of “playing plates”, which will not allow the gvl for the floor to last for a long time. Therefore, when laying the plates, it is necessary to adhere to the principle - from the door and deep into the room.

To connect gypsum boards to each other, it is necessary to use an adhesive composition, it is applied to the joints, after which they are connected. If there is uncertainty about the strength and uniformity of the GVL floor, or if there is a feeling that displacement may occur over time, they can be additionally fastened using self-tapping screws. In this case, the distance between adjacent self-tapping screws should not exceed 20-30 cm, and the distance to the edges should be at least 3 cm, this is necessary for a strong and reliable fixation of drywall boards.


The whole range of work on laying GVL on the floor can be done independently, but if possible, you can invite an assistant, the work will go faster with him (this is necessary if the repair needs to be completed as soon as possible) and more efficiently, because his presence will allow you to better control the entire process work, both in the process of leveling and preparation, and in laying. It is worth noting the fact that 1 GVL for the floor weighs about 18 kg, so it is better to get a partner to transport and move it.

Thus, you need to install all the drywall on the floor, but here it is very important to constantly use the level so that the entire coating is even and of high quality, without slopes and gaps. This is very important, because it is better to do everything right away according to the instructions than to redo all the work again, this will not only take a huge amount of time and effort, but also money.

Laying GVL on the floor: the final stages

After the GVL floor is completely laid, it will be necessary to cut off the remnants of the waterproofing tape and proceed to further design. To carry out the final finish, it is necessary to choose the appropriate material, in this case it is better to abandon the parquet boards and use a laminate or tile (with a size of no more than 30 × 30 cm).


Gypsum boards for the floor will be an excellent solution for those who decide to make a major overhaul in the apartment, they create a perfectly flat surface, beautiful aesthetic appearance and serve for decades.

  1. GVL for the floor before laying must be brought into the room to be repaired for a period of 10 hours or more, it is better if they lie there for a whole day.
  2. If it was decided to lay drywall in 2 layers, then the last of them must be installed with an offset of 40 cm.
  3. The optimal sheet size is considered to be: 1500x800x12.5 mm with a weight of 18 kg.

GVL laying on a wooden floor under a tile

Modern finishing works today cannot be imagined without a gypsum-fiber sheet (GVL). The popularity of this finishing material is due to a number of its advantages, such as environmental friendliness, strength, fire resistance, affordable cost, easy installation. Laying GVL on any surface, as well as tiling it, makes this surface perfectly even, giving an aesthetic look to any room. Therefore, this type of finishing work has become the most widespread. The technology of working with GVL consists of several successive stages.

Preparation of the room before laying on the GVL floor

Preparation of the premises includes work on the dismantling of existing equipment, the release of furniture, the dismantling of the old coating (paint, whitewash, linoleum and other types). The working surface (walls or floor) should not have large flaws in the form of cracks, crevices or voids. The screed must be strong, not have detachments. The surface must be flat to the light.

If the floor is concrete, it is cleaned, leveled and laid with plastic wrap. If the floor is wooden, it is treated with an antiseptic. The wooden floor is subject to rotting processes, the formation of fungi and must be protected as much as possible. Next, the tree needs waterproofing. Therefore, a roofing material should be laid on a wooden base, then a reinforcing mesh and a cement screed. As a waterproofing material, both ordinary film and bituminous mastic can serve.

GVL can be laid both on wooden and reinforced concrete structures, observing the features of each technology.

Tools and materials for laying GVL on the floor

Drywall tool.

  1. A hammer.
  2. Self-tapping screws.
  3. Mounting foam.
  4. Knife for cutting GVL.
  5. Hacksaw.
  6. Tile cutter.
  7. Screwdriver.
  8. Putty knife.
  9. Primer.
  10. grinding devices.
  11. Level.
  12. Rubber mallet.
  13. Roulette.
  14. Marking cord.
  15. Construction stapler.

How to lay GVL on the floor: step by step instructions

After all the preparatory work has been carried out, the remnants of the old coating have been removed, the gaps have been sealed, defects have been eliminated, the wall or floor has been treated with a primer, you should proceed to the stage of laying the GVL.

The flooring of gypsum-fiber sheets on a wooden floor, wall or ceiling has its own characteristics. So, when laying on the floor, it is necessary to file the doorway due to the rise in the floor level. In addition, it is better to first remove the wooden floor and make a screed. If it is not possible to remove the wooden floor, then the removal of rotten boards will be a prerequisite.

One of the installation options is as follows: GVL sheets should be laid on tile adhesive, fixed with self-tapping screws around the perimeter, while adhering to the following parameters: sheet thickness 10-12.5 mm; self-tapping screws 30-40 mm; step between self-tapping screws - 40 cm; the depth of fastening of self-tapping screws is 2-3 mm. Fastening sheets with self-tapping screws will eliminate cracks. After a day, you can proceed to the next stage.

Another option is the installation of GVL using metal guides (profiles). As an alternative, you can use a wooden frame made of slats, but a metal profile is more durable and reliable. The distance between the guide rails should be 40 cm. For structural strength, you can also use a plaster mesh fixed with glue and staples. Features of frameless wall cladding with a gypsum-fiber sheet consist in maintaining a certain gap width between the sheets (5-7 mm), sealing the joints with a special gypsum putty, and using special glue for GVL.

How to make floor cladding from GVL after laying

Facing GVL involves the use of paint, tiles. Speaking of tiled cladding, we can distinguish a general scheme of work, consisting of preparing tiles, marking the floor, preparing glue, laying tiles and grouting. First, you need to prime the sheets and, after complete drying, start laying the tiles. By taking measurements of the width and length of the room, dividing by the size of the tiles, taking into account the width of the seam, you can calculate the number of whole tiles in each row. And the remainder, divided by two, will indicate the number of incomplete tiles. Wall and floor types of tiles have a different degree of strength and are selected according to the required surface.

Using a special marking cord, you need to connect the middle of long and short walls. The lines will intersect at the center of the floor. Marking the floor will avoid a large number of cut tiles near the walls. When laying tiles on the floor, the technology is observed either from the corner or from the middle of the room. It depends on the styling pattern. Laying diagonally does not avoid cutting tiles. Laying along the walls should begin from the edge opposite the entrance to the room.

Glue (mastic or cement mortar) is evenly applied to the entire surface with a spatula and carefully leveled. Then a tile is placed on the floor (or other surface) and pressed down a little. You can use a rubber mallet to increase the strength of the fastening. An important role is played by a properly selected adhesive composition, since the quality of fastening depends on it. It is recommended to prepare a tile adhesive solution in portions, in the required amount for a plot of 1 sq.m. In addition, you should control the level of tiles in the course of work. Do not lay more than four rows of tiles on the floor at once and, if possible, take hourly breaks to eliminate stress in the base. Between the seams it is necessary to leave the same gaps, cleaning them from glue. After two or three days, the seams are rubbed with a special solution. And after 24 hours, the surface is thoroughly washed. When laying tiles on the wall, the seams are rubbed out in a day. It is recommended to ensure the minimum humidity in the room for the entire period of operation.

How to properly lay GVL on the floor: instructions with video

It is unlikely that anyone will deny that a warm and high-quality floor is important for comfort. After all, we have to walk on it every day. Every day, the use of GVL in flooring is gaining popularity, which has already become more popular than other methods of dry screed.

What is GVL? The answer is simple - it is a material for finishing the room, consisting of cellulose, additives and reinforced gypsum. He came to replace, first of all, drywall. Its difference is that the material is homogeneous and does not have a cardboard coating, it is denser and therefore more durable.

What should be a quality floor?

What we are used to seeing under our feet in houses is very rarely a floor in the understanding of building codes. If we look at them, we will see that the floor is a structure on which the life activity or work of people in the room takes place. It must dampen noise, be smooth, provide sound and heat insulation.

Almost always the floors are rented in a rough finish. Therefore, even if the plate is covered with linoleum or other coating, such a surface does not fully fulfill its functions.

The floor should consist of three elements:

  • The base, which carries the function of overlap and base.
  • The floor screed creates a heat-insulating and noise-reducing effect.
  • Flooring. A finish that people's feet come into contact with.

The use of gypsum-fiber boards for screeding is becoming more and more popular, and this is explained by the fact that for a “dry” floor there are now no alternatives with the same indicators of environmental friendliness and moisture resistance. Now GVL is also used in cases where water heating is arranged.

Laying GVL when arranging a warm floor

If floor heating is required, then a “wet” screed is not always acceptable.

We note the reasons why it is better to create a warm water floor using a “dry” screed:

  • The weight of the self-leveling screed is more than 300 kg per square meter. This is a significant load on the floor.
  • Bulk leveling methods “steal” less height than their “wet” counterparts.
  • Concrete mixing takes place in a concrete mixer. How to place it in a multi-storey building, especially on the upper floors, is a mystery. Therefore, the "dry" method is easier to apply.
  • Installation by the "dry" method is less time-consuming and is noticeably faster.

The process of laying GVL: we equip a warm floor

If there is an old coating on the floor, it must be removed. After that, they begin to process cracks and irregularities with the help of cement or special mounting mixtures, if they do not exceed 5 mm.

In cases where the floor has large differences, it makes sense to use bulk material - expanded clay. Next, a waterproofing material is used (polyethylene or special paper impregnated with bitumen), which is overlapped.

Then, during the laying process, the insulating tape is glued. This is done, first of all, to reduce the risk of swelling and divergence of floors from seasonal temperature changes. Such sizing also has a soundproofing function.

The next step is insulation. The three main types of heat insulators that are currently popular are bulk, fibrous and polystyrene foam materials.

  • Bulk materials. More often it is expanded clay sand, slag pumice or washed sand. Such material is cheaper than competitors, easier to use, but the level of thermal protection of expanded clay and sand is low.
  • Fibrous materials. These include mineral and glass wool. The obvious disadvantages of glass wool include fragility and rapid wetting. Mineral wool is more versatile, although it also has disadvantages. The composition of mineral wool, especially domestic production, often includes toxic formaldehyde. Such materials are strictly prohibited for use in residential premises.
  • Styrofoam materials. This option has a high level of thermal insulation than bulk counterparts, but the high cost does not always allow its use.

After the procedures described above, they begin laying the GVL boards, having previously glued them. If bulk methods are used as thermal insulation, laying starts from the door to prevent walking on the insulation. But if for one reason or another it is required from the window to start the laying process, take care of placing the “islands” of the plates along which you will move around the room.

If the plates are laid in two layers, be sure to fasten them with self-tapping screws. After completing the laying of the layers, do not forget to seal the bonding points with putty material.

An obligatory element after the installation of the plates is the finishing of the joints. Having previously primed the joints, apply reinforcement with a tape intended for this.

In conclusion, we note that the creation of a flat floor is an important step in the repair of any room. Thanks to modern materials, it will become as durable as possible and adapted to the laying of the final coating. Therefore, GVL slabs so quickly gained popularity in the building materials market and deservedly justify it.

Is it possible to lay GVL on the floor

Modern technologies make it possible to simply and quickly perform a dry screed, which involves the use of gypsum-fiber sheets. Laying tiles on GVL, as the final stage in creating a high-quality floor, can decorate the interior of a bathroom, corridor, kitchen. Such a floor has a good level of sound and heat insulation, does not allow moisture to pass through, and is resistant to high temperatures.

Advantages of GVL when laying on the floor

Gypsum fiber sheets are, in fact, improved drywall. These materials have a number of similar characteristics, but the difference is that GVL is not glued with cardboard on both sides and has a number of advantages. In terms of composition, GVL consists of the same gypsum, which is additionally reinforced with cellulose components. Plus components are added to it that make the material refractory and more moisture resistant compared to GCR.


Another plus lies in the fact that gypsum-fiber sheets are stronger than gypsum boards. Therefore, they are recommended to be used when creating a flat floor using the dry screed method. If we are talking about laying the floor in the kitchen or in the bathroom, then special moisture-resistant gypsum fiber sheets are used here - GVLV.

You can make a quality floor with your own hands. To do this, it is important to adhere to technology and have minimal experience in laying. When starting to create a new floor, follow this procedure:

  • Dismantling the old coating and cleaning the base from debris and dust;
  • screed device according to technology;
  • Laying gypsum boards;
  • Laying tiles;
  • Grouting all seams.

GVL boards can also be laid on a wet screed. But such a process is more laborious and is rarely used in ordinary houses and apartments.

Standard gypsum fiber sheet 10 millimeters thick

Preparation for laying GVL on the floor

First, they get rid of the old coating, disassemble the old floor to a concrete or wooden base. Removing the floor in the bathroom is more difficult, as you have to dismantle the plumbing. After dismantling, remove the remnants of old glue, screed, dust and other things.

Since there are no ideally even floor bases, the next step will be a screed. If a dry screed method is used, lay the waterproofing before starting to backfill the material. For example, a polyethylene coating, which is laid in several layers, especially at the joints. This will protect the base from moisture, provide waterproofing.

The ends of the walls are treated with an edge film, after which they begin to fall asleep expanded clay. Fine-grained expanded clay is easy to level, so it is easier to make such a screed than concrete.

After tamping expanded clay proceed to the installation of GVL boards. They are laid in two layers. There are ready-made plates on the market that have folding at the ends. It is much easier to work with this type of GVL, so it will become the most preferred option. When laying the slabs, take care of high-quality gluing of the joints and each layer.

It is preferable to start laying from the corner closest to the entrance. Sheets are fixed in steps of 25-30 centimeters. After the base for future tiling is mounted, the joints are puttied, the edge film and excess waterproofing layer along the walls are cut off.

Laying GVL under the tile: instructions

Before starting the installation of tiles, GVL sheets are primed. This will increase adhesion and improve the setting of the adhesive. A day later, start laying the tiles. For high-quality styling, it is necessary to draw up a drawing in advance, calculate how many rows will be solid, and how many from cut fragments. It is allowed to start laying both from the corner and from the center of the room.

This is what the process of installing a high-quality floor looks like

After diluting the tile adhesive, it is applied with a notched trowel to the floor. After that, the tiles are laid, slightly pressing down to the base. It is important to carefully check the process with a level so that the floor in the bathroom or kitchen remains flat. Gaps are left between the tiles, which are easiest to level with special plastic crosses.

Apply the adhesive in small areas, otherwise it will begin to set and harden even before the boards are installed.

In the bathroom, where there are constant temperature changes, the seams at the joints are made about 10 millimeters thick. Control the level of the tiles together with the neighbors that were laid earlier! Clean the seams of excess glue, which is released when pressed on each tile.

After drying, it is very difficult to remove it. After completion of work, the floor in the bathroom or in the kitchen is left to dry for at least three days. Within three days it is recommended to reduce the humidity in the room as much as possible. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the room for its intended purpose at this time.

After grouting and cleaning the tiles, your floor is ready for use.

The final stage on the way to a new floor

After three or four days, the seams are overwritten with a special solution. Removing the plastic spacers, apply the mortar with a thin spatula. Excess mortar is removed from the tile with a damp cloth.

The floor is much more than just a surface that each of us comes into contact with on a daily basis. From the point of view of professionals, the floor is a complex structure, consisting of a rough base, a leveling layer and a top coat. The formation of a leveling layer is a time-consuming task, the quality of which depends on the final result. And if earlier the “wet” method was considered the most common option for creating a screed, which, by the way, has a lot of disadvantages, today the floor from gvl acts as a profitable alternative.

What is gvl?

Gvl (gypsum fiber sheets) is a finishing material that is made from reinforced gypsum and fluff pulp. Features of raw materials - uniform structure and high density. This combination has many advantages over drywall and fiberboard. In terms of moisture resistance and environmental friendliness, GVL has no equal, which is why dry GVL floors are used in modern construction more and more often.

Gvl demonstrates excellent heat-saving and sound-proofing characteristics and is the best substrate for carpet, laminate, and linoleum. Let's install the "warm floor" system. Due to the fact that the installation of the floor from gypsum board is made according to the "dry" principle, you save time, effort and money.

Advantages of gypsum fiber sheets

Gvl sheets for the floor have numerous advantages that explain the increased interest in this material.

  • strength. A high concentration of cellulose, acting as a reliable binding element, makes the sheets strong and durable;
  • fire safety. Gypsum fiber is resistant to fire - when exposed to fire, only the top layer suffers. However, it does not catch fire, but is charred;
  • versatility. You can lay gvl on a wooden floor or on reinforced concrete structures, and then cover it with a parquet board, porcelain stoneware, laminate or linoleum;

  • ease of installation. Laying is done in the shortest possible time. In addition, the work will be carried out without unnecessary dust and dirt;
  • under the sheets it is easy to hide engineering communications;
  • light weight facilitates transportation and installation;
  • GVL floors do not creak, do not knock, do not bend and are able to withstand heavy loads.

Technical specifications

Gypsum fiber sheets are presented in 2 variations: simple and moisture resistant. Simple ones are optimal for interior decoration of premises with a normal level of humidity, and moisture-resistant ones will be a profitable solution where a hydrophobic layer is needed (in kitchens, bathrooms, bathrooms).

In addition, there is another distinction. Depending on the size, standard and small-format gvl are distinguished. The former are used not only for arranging the floor, but also for forming partitions, leveling walls, and creating various architectural elements. Dimensions 1200x1500 mm. The second ones are 2 sheets with intersecting central axes that are offset in vector directions. This is how a simple locking system is formed - a folded one. Such gvl for the floor dimensions are 1500x500 or 1200x600.

As for the technical characteristics, they are as follows:

  • weight - no more than 18 kg;
  • width - up to 50 mm, length - 1.5 m, thickness - up to 20 mm;
  • usable area - up to 75 sq.m;
  • hardness - from 20 MPa;
  • thermal conductivity - up to 0.36 W / m.

It is easy to transport gvl - the material is packaged and delivered to the destination on special pallets. It is recommended to store the sheets in a room with low humidity, to cut them in a horizontal position on a flat surface.

Varieties of dry screed from gvl

  • base prefabricated with a height of 2 cm. It is recommended if the base is insulated and does not have significant differences in height;
  • rough floors covered with foam (2-3 cm). The best option in the presence of irregularities and the need for insulation;
  • prefabricated floor on polystyrene slabs laid on a layer of expanded clay 2 cm thick. This scheme is good for floors with significant differences in height.

Separately, I would like to dwell on a prefabricated screed, which includes several layers:

  • steam and waterproofing layers that separate the floors of the floor "pie";

It is important!
If the floors are made of reinforced concrete, then a plastic film acts as a layer, if a wooden floor is laid, then glassine.

  • compensatory and noise-insulating gasket. The edge tape is fixed with screws or glued. Tapes are produced from various materials: from basalt wool, isolon, foam;
  • leveling layer;
  • gvl slabs, laid in 2 layers, and tightened with self-tapping screws.

Gypsum floor installation

Work begins with standard surface preparation. The rough floor, if necessary, is repaired and polished. If the base is wooden, then check the reliability of fastening the log, the horizontalness of all components of the structure.

Small irregularities can be eliminated with a repair mortar, which fills cracks and crevices. Small expanded clay is used to level depressions larger than 20 mm. Next, waterproofing is laid on the subfloor. For a concrete floor, polyethylene 0.2 mm thick, overlapped, is suitable, for a wooden floor, vapor-permeable materials (glassine, waxed or corrugated paper) are suitable.

An insulating tape made of mineral wool or polystyrene 1 cm thick and 0.1 m wide is glued along the floor contour.

It is important!
Insulating tape is necessary to prevent swelling and cracking of gypsum sheets.

Then the gypsum fiber is cut, taking into account the edge gaps, and the insulation is poured. It is better if it is fine-grained expanded clay, quarry or river sand. The amorphous insulation is aligned according to the marks marked with a level gauge. The minimum backfill thickness is 20 mm.

The resulting layers are insulated with glass wool or polystyrene, cut into small blocks. GVL plates are mounted on top of the “pie”, while the gap between the gypsum fiber components should not exceed 1 mm.

If the laying starts from the wall opposite the door, then in order not to injure the insulating layer of the plates, it is necessary to build a kind of “islands” for movement. It is recommended to start the installation of the GVL leveling system from the opposite wall.

After the first layer of the screed is laid, the sheets of gypsum board are covered with PVA dispersion or adhesive mastic. A second layer of dry screed is laid on top.

It is important!
The elements of the second layer are mounted perpendicular to the elements of the first.

To connect large-format sheets (in addition to glue), self-tapping screws are used (30 cm step). Small-format sheets are smeared around the perimeter with glue and also fastened with self-tapping screws, but with a step of 20 cm. Please note that fasteners designed for simple drywall are not suitable, screws with a self-sinking device and double threads are required.

You should not worry about the large consumption of small-format material, because. trimmings obtained in the mate area are transferred to the next row. The laying of the gypsum board on the floor is completed, it remains only to close up the joints and the installation sites of the self-tapping screws with putty, remove the remnants of the protruding edge tape and waterproofing.

Some installation features

Sheets are trimmed only after the last row is laid. In other words, at the wall opposite the one from where the work began. This will allow you to achieve at least 25 cm in each layer, which is the main condition for high-quality installation. In the first layer, the width between the seams should not exceed 2 mm.

Double dry floors, glued at the factory, resemble small-format slabs according to the installation principle. With the help of folds, on which glue is applied, the gvl is joined. The folds that go to the walls are cut off, the plates are pulled together with fasteners.

  • it is better to cut gvl on a hard surface, using a hacksaw or a construction knife for this;
  • when cutting, the gaps on the edge of the insulating tape should be taken into account;
  • if it is necessary to create curly holes, make punctures in the tile and use round cutters;
  • the joints of the sheets must be treated with a primer. Serpyanka (sticky fiberglass mesh) is most often used to reinforce the edges. Putty is applied in 2 layers.

A gypsum board floor is a great opportunity to get a perfectly flat surface on which any finishing material can be laid without any problems. It doesn't matter if it's tile, parquet or - an impeccable result is guaranteed, because gvl slabs, no doubt, will cope with the task of arranging the subfloor better than other materials! It remains to verify this in practice!

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 specific batch. 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. It doesn't show up in any way on the outside. 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 polystyrene foam, which increases the 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 finger in a glove, for a better effect it can be moistened 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. It is impossible to mix different materials or different fractions, 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 for sheet material for dry floor screed is 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.
  • Bind the layers with 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 an 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.

The floor is one of the complex building structures. GVL floors consist of several elements. Each performs its function. The result is a durable, perfectly flat surface. To make it so, use different methods and materials.

Recently, wet leveling methods have been replaced by dry methods. These include the technology of coating with gypsum-fiber sheets. They are placed on different grounds. GVL on a wooden floor is one of the best materials for.

Gypsum fiber sheets- a modern material designed for leveling curved surfaces, finishing walls, ceilings and floors. They are created from reinforced gypsum and cellulose. It is specially disassembled into fibers to enhance the strength of the final product. During the production process, the raw material acquires a uniform structure and high density. When the gypsum solidifies, the material becomes dense and durable.

Gypsum-fiber products are similar to GKL and fiberboard, but have a number of undeniable advantages over these materials.

  1. They are highly environmentally friendly, as they are made from natural ingredients. Synthetic inclusions, artificial chemical additives are not used in the production process. Which are released and poison the air during the operation of the premises.
  2. GV sheets are fireproof. The material does not burn, but chars. Does not emit toxic gas.
  3. A dry floor made of gypsum-fiber board is strong and durable, withstands serious mechanical loads. It does not flex or creak over time. They obtained this characteristic due to the high concentration of cellulose. It acts as a reliable connecting element.
  4. Compared to drywall, GVL have the highest moisture resistance. Therefore, they cover wooden floors in kitchens, bathrooms. It is well preserved by itself and protects the topcoat made on the basis of wood components from warping.
  5. GV slabs are a universal leveling coating for any finishing material. It acts as a substrate for laminate, carpet, linoleum.
  6. The material, made of gypsum and cellulose, perfectly retains heat and does not allow noise to spread.
  7. GVL are easy to install, easy to transport. Well cut and shaped. They have comfortable dimensions. It is pleasant to lay them, due to the absence of dust, dirt, contact with water.
  8. They are suitable for covering underfloor heating, they do a good job of masking communications.

Gypsum boards are ideal for leveling wooden floors. They do not interfere, do not constrain the freedom of natural boards.

GVL parameters

Gypsum and fiber slabs are produced in two variations.

  1. Simple products are intended for interior decoration with a low, medium level of humidity. They are placed on the floor, walls are leveled with them, partitions, original design elements are created.
  2. Moisture resistant - play the role of a hydrophobic layer on the wooden floors of kitchens, bathrooms, bathrooms.

In terms of dimensions, GVL slabs are standard - 1200x1500 mm and small-format - 1500x500 mm or 1200x600 mm. GVL of small sizes is 2 sheets in which the central axes intersect, shifted in vector directions. This is how the folded locking system is obtained.

Attention! Weight of one small formatsheet- up to 18 kg. Width - no more than 50 mm. Length -1.5 m. Thickness - up to 20 mm. Hardness - over 20 MPa. Thermal conductivity - no more than 0.36 W / m.

When buying GVL slabs, the calculation is made on the condition that the products are placed in 2 layers. Therefore, the total floor area is multiplied by 2 and divided by the GVL parameters.

Installation of GVL on a wooden floor

In order for the installation of GVL to turn into an easy and pleasant job, 2 conditions must be accepted:

  1. store the material before laying in a dry, well-ventilated area:
  2. cutting should be carried out only in a horizontal position on a flat surface: put the GVL on a table or workbench so that it does not bend. Use a jigsaw, a hacksaw or a sharp carpenter's knife for this.

The laying of gypsum-fiber sheets is carried out in different ways. It depends on the quality of the base and the installation scheme.

Prefabricated GVL floor on loose cushion

With a large difference in floor height, additional materials are used for leveling. On draft boards or an old warped floor, slats are stuffed in the form of a lattice with cells. Medium-fraction expanded clay is poured into them to a thickness of 2 cm. This layer will play the role of thermal and noise insulation.

Next, put sheets of gypsum fiber in 2 layers. The first is attached to the rails using screw-in elements. The second is glued to the bottom. At the same time, they make sure that the joints of the plates do not coincide and the locks are combined as tightly as possible.

Attention! Leveling gypsum-fiber products should not adhere tightly to the walls. A distance of 1-1.5 cm will create conditions for additional ventilation and will serve as a better preservation of the entire floor structure made of natural parts.

Multilayer prefabricated "dry" screedunder GVL

First stage

Before installing the GVL, a study and repair of the rough base is carried out.

  1. They check the condition of the wooden logs and horizontal parts of the general structure, their horizontal position and possible depressions and protrusions. If serious defects are found, the damaged elements are repaired or replaced with new ones. Rotten boards, beams are removed, well-crafted reliable parts of the same format as the old ones are put in their place.
  2. All structural elements are treated with a protective composition: special wood impregnation. It will protect the boards and other components of the multilayer device from mold, fungus, insects. Compositions with fire-fighting inclusions will protect the material from fire.
  3. With differences in heights of individual boards of the rough base, grinding is carried out, cutting off the protruding parts. The cavities are filled with hermetic means, putty on wood. Sometimes craftsmen use a simple solution: small sawdust mixed with PVA glue. When solidified, the composition acquires special strength and reliably protects the material from any subsequent damage.
  4. Particular attention should be paid to the protruding nails, screws that fasten the boards to the timber, lags. They need to be sunk into the tree as deep as possible. The dent is sealed with a composition of sawdust and PVA or any sealant.

Second phase

When the base is prepared, proceed to the installation of a heat-insulating layer under the GVL on a wooden floor.

  1. The rough plank base is covered with a vapor barrier sheet: glassine, corrugated or waxed paper.
  2. Along the perimeter of the room, an edge tape is mounted to the walls. It can be a narrow strip of basalt wool, foam, isolon: thickness - 1 cm, width - 0.1 m. It is screwed with self-tapping screws or put on glue. Attention! The insulation tape will protect the GVL from cracking and bending.
  3. Next, the main leveling material is cut. When measuring, the size of the gaps and the geometric features of the room are taken into account. The cuts are made with an electric jigsaw strictly along the marked lines. The edges are slightly cleaned from the protruding components of the plate.
  4. A 20 mm layer of fine-grained expanded clay or fine river sand is poured onto prepared wooden boards. The insulation is leveled with a rule and checked by level.
  5. Mats of fiberglass or polystyrene are placed on bulk material, which are cut into squares (rectangles).
  6. On top of the “layer cake” created from different materials, the first level of gypsum fiber boards is placed. To do this, use moisture resistant sheets. The gap between them should be no more than 1 m.

    Attention! Installation of GVL should start from the door. So the heat-insulating layer will retain its integrity and remain flat. If you need to lay on the opposite side, you should create "islands" from the sheets and move along them.

  7. The first layer of dry gypsum-fiber screed is covered with an adhesive mass. To do this, use PVA dispersion or special mastic. The composition is applied in an even thin layer. If it has a liquid consistency, use a brush or roller. A thick agent is distributed with a frequent notched trowel. The adhesive solution contains water, but the moisture-resistant characteristics of GVL will not allow the material to deform.
  8. Start work from the opposite corner to the doors. The gluing of the plates is carried out in stages, in rows. Leveling products of the second level are fixed perpendicular to the first. If at first the sheets were laid along, then the last layer is laid across the base.
  9. Small-format leveling products are glued and fastened with self-tapping screws in increments of 20 cm. Large-sized ones are screwed at a distance of 30 cm from each other. Attention! For screwing GVL use special hardware with double threads.
  10. Upon completion of laying the sheets with putty or sealant, close up the joints and the location of the caps of the screws, cut off the protruding edges of the edge tape with a sharp knife.

To properly lay GVL on a wooden floor, no special skills are required. The main thing is to learn the main technological points, listen to the advice of the masters and follow the installation instructions.

Important nuances about GVL

Gypsum-fiber leveling boards can be placed as a substrate under laminate, linoleum, carpet directly on a wooden base. But it must be in perfect condition.

The sheets are cut in the last row to achieve an optimal spacing of 25 cm.

Factories and construction plants produce double small-format products ready for laying. Their docking takes place with the help of folds, which are covered with glue at the production stage. If the mounting protrusions go to the walls, they are cut off. Such plates are tightened with fasteners (self-tapping screws).

Gypsum fiber material lends itself well to molding. With complex cutting, a diagram drawn on tracing paper with the geometric features of the room must be placed on a flat sheet of gypsum fiber and the necessary cuts should be made according to the markup. Round shapes are first outlined with drilled holes and then cut out with a jigsaw.

GVL is placed on a wooden floor when they want to make an absolutely flat surface at minimal cost. Plates made from inexpensive gypsum and cellulose are a great alternative to more expensive counterparts.

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