• EPB Plasterboard is intended for normal conditions of dry internal use.
• EPB Plasterboard must not be used for bracing applications in or around baths and shower areas.
• EPB Plasterboard must not be exposed to liquid water or be installed in situations where extended exposures to humidity above 90% Relative Humidity are to be expected or continually wet such as group shower, steam rooms, swimming pools, or chlorine type environments.
• Bathrooms, kitchens and laundries should have adequate ventilation or heating to avoid condensation build-up.
• A suitable surface finish (e.g. Vinyl wallpaper or gloss and semi-gloss alkyd paints) must be applied to EPB Plasterboard in all areas where liquid water or high humidity can be expected.
• EPB Plasterboard must not be installed over a vapour barrier.
• EPB Plasterboard must not be applied directly to masonry, concrete or solid plaster, unless timber strapping or steel furring channels are used.
• EPB Plasterboard must not be exposed to temperatures of 52ºC or greater for prolonged periods.
• EPB Plasterboard may not be used as an external lining.

EPB Plasterboard is manufactured to AS/NZS 2588 and has been specifically formulated to meet New Zealand Building Code requirements.

EPB Plasterboard meets the durability requirements of the NZBC and is subject to use, installation and maintenance in accordance with the instructions outlaid in this manual. The Manufacturing plant is International Standard ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 registered.

• NZBC Clause B1 Structure: Framing material specifications used with EPB Plasterboard Systems must be in accordance with the performance requirements of NZBC Clause B1. Timber framed walls and floors must be installed and meet the requirements of NZS 3604.
• NZBC Clause B2 Durability: EPB AquaSmart Wet Area Plasterboard Systems meet the requirements of B2 Durability. Not less than 50 years relates to the use of EPB AquaSmart as a Bracing System within the areas, bathrooms, kitchens and laundries not exposed to direct water. 15 years relates to the use of EPB AquaSmart when used behind baths, showers and splash-backs, directly exposed to water.
• NZBC Clause E3 Internal Moisture: EPB Plasterboard Wet Area Systems can meet the requirements of NZBC Acceptable Solution E3/AS1.
  • E3.3.4 — Wall surfaces adjacent to sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances must be impervious and easily cleaned. 
  • E3.3.5 — Surfaces of building elements likely to be splashed or become contaminated in the course of the intended use of the building, must be impervious and easily cleaned. 
  • E3.3.6 — Surfaces of building elements likely to be splashed must be constructed in a way that prevents water splash from penetrating behind linings or into concealed spaces.
• NZBC Clause F2 Hazardous Building Materials: EPB Plasterboard meets this requirement of NZBC Clause F2 and will not present a health hazard. Dust created from sanding stopping compounds can irritate the respiratory system, so it's advisable to wear an appropriate face mask for protection.
• NZBC Clause G4 Ventilation: The NZ Building Code Clause G4 (Ventilation) mandates that buildings must have a system to capture or remove steam produced from activities like laundering, washing utensils, bathing, or showering. To extend the life span of interior linings and surface finishes and reduce the risk of moisture-related issues such as condensation and mould, sufficient heating, thermal insulation, and mechanical ventilation must be installed in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries.

EPB Plasterboard has been marketed and distributed in New Zealand since 1988 and the product has established an excellent history of performance for its use in buildings throughout New Zealand and the Asia/Pacific region.