Which statement is a disadvantage associated with gypsum wallboard?

• A. Non structural (cracking)
• B. Excellent moisture resistance
• C. High load-bearing capacity
• D. Non fluorescent finish

Answer: (A)

Gypsum wallboard is a non-structural interior finishing material. Its key drawback is cracking, because the board itself doesn’t carry loads and any movement in the framing—settlement, humidity and temperature changes, or improper fastening—shows up as cracks along joints or around openings. This is a real disadvantage because it affects the surface’s appearance and may require repair and rework over time.

It’s not inherently highly moisture resistant; standard gypsum can be damaged by water, and even moisture-resistant variants aren’t waterproof. It also doesn’t provide high load-bearing capacity, so structural support must come from the framing. The final finish being non-fluorescent isn’t a meaningful drawback in typical interiors.