The short answer
PVC does not absorb moisture and wipes clean, so it suits bathrooms, kitchens and verandas. Gypsum gives a smoother, seamless, paintable finish for living rooms and bedrooms. Many homes use both.
What is a PVC ceiling?
PVC ceiling panels are long, lightweight plastic strips that clip together over a simple frame. They arrive already finished, so there is no plastering or painting once they are up.
Because PVC does not take up water, steam and splashes do not stain or soften it. A damp cloth is usually all the cleaning it needs.
What is a gypsum ceiling?
Gypsum boards have a gypsum core faced with paper. They are screwed to a metal or timber frame, then the joints are taped, filled and sanded so the ceiling reads as one smooth surface.
That seamless finish takes paint well and suits coves, steps and concealed lighting, which is why gypsum is the usual choice for designed ceilings.
Which handles humidity better?
PVC. It simply does not absorb moisture, so bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and covered verandas are where it earns its place.
Standard gypsum is not suitable for wet rooms. Where you want a gypsum look in a humid space, ask about moisture resistant boards, and make sure the room is well ventilated.
Which looks better?
For living rooms, bedrooms and offices, gypsum usually wins. There are no visible joints, the ceiling can be painted any colour and it can be shaped around lighting.
PVC has fine lines between panels. That suits utility spaces and outdoor areas well, but it reads as more practical than decorative.
Can I use both in one house?
Yes, and most homes do. A common choice is gypsum in the living areas and bedrooms, with PVC or moisture resistant boards in bathrooms, the kitchen and the veranda. We plan the change between them at a door line so it looks deliberate.
Which rooms suit which ceiling?
Use this as a starting point, then talk it through with us for your own rooms.
| Room | Usual choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Living room and bedrooms | Gypsum | Smooth, paintable and suits cove lighting |
| Bathroom and toilet | PVC or moisture resistant board | Standard gypsum is not suitable for wet rooms |
| Kitchen | PVC or moisture resistant board | Handles steam and is easy to clean |
| Veranda and car porch | PVC or weather resistant board | Copes with humidity and wind driven rain |
| Office or shop | Suspended tiles or gypsum | Tiles give easy access to services above |
Need help choosing?
Send us your room sizes and tell us how each room is used. We will suggest a ceiling for each one and put it all on one written quotation.
Need help choosing a ceiling?
Tell us your rooms and sizes and we will suggest the right ceiling for each.
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