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Dense plastic behind plasterboard?

Posted: Sat Sep 05, 2020 3:56 pm
by John_W
I want to put some secure fixings into plasterboard. I used a metal finder to confirm there are are no wires or metal studs and the plumbing is enclosed in boxing. I can push a screwdriver blade 10 cm into the first hole I drilled. When I tried to make a 15mm diameter hole I came across some very resistant dense plastic (or ceramic?) immediately behind the plasterboard and flush with it. Got a bit of a burning smell and stopped. Any idea what this might be?

Re: Dense plastic behind plasterboard?

Posted: Sun Sep 06, 2020 2:30 pm
by stoneyboy
Hi john_w
I find the stud finders are pretty useless so maybe you've hit some metal sheathing. If it's a modern wall you may have metal studwork. Only you can establish what is behind the plasterboard - enlarge the hole until you can see.
Regards S

Re: Dense plastic behind plasterboard?

Posted: Sun Sep 13, 2020 3:12 pm
by John_W
Thanks for the advice and sorry not to acknowledge right away. There is a stud that I found around 4cm away, that is wood and metal. The dense plastic seems a bit mysterious. I wanted to avoid cutting too much material away as I'm not experienced with plasterboard repairs. As I have already drilled into it, I can probably use it as an anchor without going any deeper and secure more conventionally at other points. Thanks again, John.