The use of moisture board in bathroom areas, the requirement for moisture board use in bathroom locations is set out as a recommendation in BS 8212: Code of practice for dry lining and partitioning using gypsum plasterboard, which states ‘’ where the wallboard is to be exposed for short periods to humidity or moisture, for example in Kitchens and Bathrooms ‘’Moisture resistant wall board should be used’’.

Plasterboard in the UK is manufactured in accordance with BS520: GYPSUM plasterboards Definitions, requirements and test methods, to be classed as a moisture board the board need to meet the following requirements to be classified as a moisture board, these are then defined into three categories H1, H2 & H3. 

Regarding the requirements in the UK, the standard only recommends that a moisture board should be installed in bathroom areas. The standard does not define to what level of water absorption these boards need to meet. This is demonstrated by both H1 and H2 boards  found on the market. The finish applied to the board is the first line of defence against humidity and that is the important barrier to ensure is maintained.