Dabs
The term ‘dabs’ refers to blobs or 'dots' of plaster or gypsum-based bonding compounds used as an adhesive to fix boards such as gypsum-based boards, dry lining board or mineral fibre backed boards direct to masonry walls. This leaves a small cavity between the boards and the wall.
Dabs have been commonly used since the 1970’s an 80’s as a faster method of fixing boards to walls compared to timber battens or timber straps. As well as being faster, dabs can perform acoustically more effectively than timber straps, however, at some frequencies, the air in the cavity behind the boards can cause a mass-spring-mass resonance.
The technique of fixing boards direct to masonry with dabs is referred to as ‘dot and dab’. This process has been criticised recently as the cavity behind the boards can create a thermal by-pass if it is open at the top or bottom or if there are imperfections in the wall. See dot and dab for more information.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
From inns and coaching houses to boutiques.
Survey reveals green skills gap.
America's economic collapse produced scores of PWA Moderne projects.
The benefits of glowing aggregates and cement.
Rising concern over construction worker wellbeing
Urgent need for open communication to address mental health issues.
New engineering alliance forms
Guidance offered on COVID-19 green recovery, building safety and more.
Providing strength and support above the joists.
Construction Products Regulator
Enforcer will test and investigate product safety.
London landmark receives a high tech upgrade
Underfloor air conditioning comes to 24 St James's Square.
Consultation on public right to buy unused public property.
Guidance for listed building alterations
IHBC resource offers improved consistency.
New laws to ‘retain and explain’ historic statues.