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Plastering & Rendering

Is a shadow gap always needed?

Anonymous user 15/03/2024 - 2.33 PM

UPDATE: I do not want to use architrave! I get that architrave is traditionally used to cover the crack/gap between plaster and door frame. This question is specifically about using shadow gaps and/or what the minimum it is they can be. When trying to avoid using architrave is a minimum of 10mm gap always required? Is it possible to have the plasterboard flush to the door frame or at most have a small 1-3mm gap using some kind of beading? Can you buy beading which allows the plasterboard to sit closer to the door frame? Or is the 10mm gap needed because buildings can move so much that a larger gap is needed? If there is such a product where can I find it or what is it called?

Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?

2 Answers

Surrey Signature Spaces

Rating: 5 out of 5

Chertsey

The plasterboard can go flush straight to the frame. Archetrave is used to cover the joint between the frame and plasterboard. It also covers any steps you may have. The frame should always be level/plumb and the walls may not be so the archetrave (if fitted by a professional) will hide the step. If you're avoiding archetrave, the walls can always be skimmed so it is flush to the frame but as the house moves over time a crack will form between the plaster and frame, hence the reason for archetrave.

Answered25 January 2017

Spot On Plastering

Rating: 5 out of 5

Holywell

Usually plaster is flush to the door frame if the gap from board to frame is normal depth 3mm to 8mm. Architrave is used to hide the crack when the wood shrinks away from the plaster. One way around this could be to use stop end bead against the frame.

Answered26 January 2017