Knauf India has launched Knauf Drystar, a specialised gypsum board system engineered for humid and wet environments as per a press release. The launch in New Delhi addresses requirements of modern construction projects which increasingly demand building materials that are able to resist mould growth, withstand moisture, and maintain structural performance over a period of time. Knauf Drystar is a high-performance fibre-reinforced gypsum board that has been developed for usage in interior dry construction systems which are exposed to moisture, high humidity, and intermittent water contact. The board blends a moisture-resistant glass-fleece surface with a specially engineered gypsum core, allowing advanced protection against mould formation and water absorption. Knauf India is described as the world’s number one company in Drywall and Ceiling Solutions.
Knauf Drystar features a low level of water absorption of below 3 percent in combination with a high resistance to mould. It is classified according to EN 15283-1 as GM-FH1IR, signifying enhanced fire performance, increased surface hardness, less water absorption, and improved strength. It carries a fire classification of A2-s1,d0, turning it into a non-combustible building material which is suitable for projects that require stringent fire safety standards. The product is designed specifically for humid and wet environments, offering superior moisture resistance, fire safety, mould protection, high durability, improved lifecycle performance with design flexibility, and reduced construction time.
Speaking about the launch, Sumit Bidani, Chief Executive Officer of Knauf India, said, โModern construction demands materials not only delivering durability and performance but also addressing evolving concerns such as hygiene, fire safety, moisture management, sustainability and safety. With Knauf Drystarโs launch, we are introducing an advanced drywall solution that is engineered specifically for wet-area and high-humidity applications. Drystar amalgamates superior mould and moisture resistance with the flexibility, speed and efficiency of modern dry construction systems, enabling developers, architects and contractors to build with greater confidence.โ
Knauf Drystar is suitable for various scenarios such as commercial and residential washrooms where ceilings and walls are exposed to moisture on a regular basis, making it an ideal base for waterproofing systems and ceramic tiles. It has usability in hospitality projects and hotels, which often require ceiling and wall systems in spas, bathrooms, wellness facilities, helping to maintain long-term performance while lowering the risk of mould growth in high-humidity environments. Again, hospitals, diagnostic centres and clinics necessitate moisture-resistant and hygienic interiors. Knauf Drystarโs mould-resistant properties offer support to cleaner indoor environments in treatment zones and wash areas.
Areas which are exposed to elevated humidity levels and occasional water splashes can also benefit from the moisture resistance property of Knauf Drystar and its robust surface characteristics. Besides, Knauf Drystar can be used for suspended ceilings in semi-exterior areas such as entrance canopies, covered walkways, balconies and others. Airports, schools, public infrastructure projects, shopping centres, can use Drystar in changing rooms, washrooms, and other utility areas where moisture resistance and durability play a critical role. The product specification includes enhanced mould and termites resistance, high resistance to moisture and humidity, low water absorption, and it is a non-combustible construction material.
Knauf Drystar also offers easy installation, similar to conventional gypsum boards, and is flexible and bendable for curved applications. It is a suitable substrate for waterproofing membranes, tiles, and sealants. The launch of Knauf Drystar reinforces Knaufโs commitment towards bringing high-performance, globally proven building solutions to the Indian market and support the development of future-ready spaces across hospitality, residential, commercial and healthcare sectors. Knauf Drystar combines the speed and efficiency of modern dry construction systems with the specific performance needs of wet areas.
Knauf is the Worldโs number one company in Drywall and Ceiling Solutions, founded in 1932 by Alfons and Karl Knauf to introduce gypsum-based building materials that allow people to build faster, better, and more efficiently. Headquartered in Iphofen, Bavaria, Germany, the company operates over 320 plants across more than 90 countries with a global workforce of about 43,500. Through state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to sustainable building, Knauf produces high-performing solutions ranging from drywall systems and plasters to insulating materials, ensuring every product is rigorously tested, certified, and socio-environmentally responsible.
