Drylining Training Course

Lesson 1 • Tools and Equipment Overview

Surveys hand tools, power tools, and measuring equipment used throughout dry-lining work. Establishes familiarity before detailed tool use is taught in later chapters.

Lesson 2 • What Is Dry-lining

Defines dry-lining, distinguishes it from wet plastering, and outlines its role in modern construction. Sets the conceptual baseline for all subsequent technical content.

Lesson 3 • Key Systems and Products

Introduces the main dry-lining systems: plasterboard, metal framing, and acoustic or thermal boards. Students distinguish system types and match them to project requirements.

Lesson 1 • Risk Assessment and Hazard Control

Teaches identification of common dry-lining hazards and the process of completing a risk assessment. Directly supports safe practice throughout all hands-on chapters.

Lesson 2 • Working with Utilities and Services

Identifies risks from concealed electrical, plumbing, and gas services within walls and ceilings. Students use detection tools and follow safe isolation procedures.

Lesson 3 • Personal Protective Equipment

Covers selection, fitting, and maintenance of PPE required for dry-lining tasks. Students match PPE to specific hazards encountered in the trade.

Lesson 4 • Site Setup and Access Equipment

Covers site organisation, material storage, and safe use of ladders, hop-ups, and mobile platforms. Prepares students to establish a productive and compliant work area.

Lesson 1 • Measuring Tools and Techniques

Covers use of tape measures, laser levels, spirit levels, and plumb bobs for accurate layout. Students apply each tool to typical dry-lining measurement scenarios.

Lesson 2 • Setting Out Partitions

Guides students through marking floor and ceiling track positions for stud partitions. Correct setting out ensures plumb, square, and dimensionally accurate walls.

Lesson 3 • Setting Out Ceilings and Soffits

Covers layout of suspended ceiling grids and direct-fix ceiling systems from a reference datum. Students account for service zones, falls, and level tolerances.

Lesson 1 • Ceiling and Soffit Framing

Addresses installation of primary and secondary ceiling framing, hangers, and perimeter angles. Students construct a level, rigid ceiling frame ready for board application.

Lesson 2 • Components of Metal Framing

Identifies tracks, studs, noggins, and proprietary connectors used in metal framing systems. Understanding components enables correct selection before assembly begins.

Lesson 3 • Assembling Stud Partitions

Covers fixing floor and ceiling tracks, inserting studs at correct centres, and securing noggins. Students build a complete partition frame to specification.

Lesson 4 • Cutting and Forming Metal Sections

Teaches safe cutting of metal track and studs using snips, angle grinders, and chop saws. Students produce clean, accurate cuts required for tight-fitting assemblies.

Lesson 1 • Fixing Boards to Metal Frames

Teaches correct screw type, length, spacing, and depth for fixing plasterboard to metal studs. Proper fixing prevents board movement, nail pops, and joint failure.

Lesson 2 • Cutting Plasterboard Accurately

Covers score-and-snap, jab saw, and router techniques for straight and shaped cuts. Accurate cutting minimises waste and ensures tight board joints.

Lesson 3 • Board Jointing and Taping

Introduces jointing compound application, paper and mesh tape embedding, and feathering techniques. Quality jointing produces invisible seams ready for decoration.

Lesson 4 • Ceiling Board Installation

Covers safe lifting, positioning, and fixing of boards overhead on ceiling frames. Students use deadman props and team techniques to achieve level, secure installations.

Lesson 1 • Single-Layer Partition Construction

Guides students through building a standard single-board partition from setting out to finishing. Reinforces integration of framing, boarding, and jointing skills.

Lesson 2 • Dry-lining Masonry Walls

Covers dot-and-dab adhesive fixing and timber or metal batten systems for lining masonry walls. Students select the appropriate method based on wall condition and specification.

Lesson 3 • Double-Layer and Robust Partitions

Covers staggered-joint double-layer boarding for enhanced fire and acoustic performance. Students understand how additional layers affect fixing and jointing procedures.

Lesson 4 • Fire-Rated Partition Systems

Teaches construction of partitions rated for fire resistance, including intumescent sealing and correct board specification. Students verify compliance with fire performance requirements.

Lesson 1 • Suspended Ceiling Grid Systems

Teaches installation of main tees, cross tees, and perimeter angles for a suspended grid ceiling. Students level and align the grid to within specified tolerances.

Lesson 2 • Plasterboard Suspended Ceilings

Addresses fixing plasterboard to a suspended metal grid for a seamless plastered ceiling finish. Students manage board weight, joint staggering, and screw patterns overhead.

Lesson 3 • Direct-Fix Ceiling Installation

Covers fixing plasterboard directly to joists or concrete soffits using appropriate fixings. Students establish a level datum and achieve a flat, crack-free ceiling surface.

Lesson 4 • Bulkheads and Curved Ceilings

Teaches construction of stepped bulkheads and curved ceiling forms using flexible board and kerfing. Students create complex ceiling profiles to architectural specifications.

Lesson 1 • Sanding and Surface Preparation

Covers dry and wet sanding of jointed surfaces to remove ridges and achieve a flat finish. Proper preparation prevents visible defects after painting.

Lesson 2 • Handover and Documentation

Guides students through preparing handover documentation, as-built records, and client sign-off procedures. Proper documentation protects all parties and supports future maintenance.

Lesson 3 • Defect Identification and Correction

Teaches recognition and repair of common defects: ridging, shadowing, nail pops, and cracks. Students apply corrective techniques before final inspection.

Lesson 4 • Quality Inspection Procedures

Covers systematic inspection of completed dry-lining work against specification tolerances and standards. Students use checklists and raking light to identify and record defects.