Types Of Drywall

Drywall

Published: Jun 2, 2024 Edited: Jun 2, 2024

An Exhaustive Guide

Drywall, also known as gypsum board or plasterboard, is a crucial material in modern construction. It is used for creating walls and ceilings and offers a variety of types, each suited for specific applications. This guide covers the different types of drywall, highlighting their unique characteristics and uses to help you make informed decisions for your construction projects.

Standard Drywall

Standard drywall, also known as whiteboard, is the most common type of drywall used in residential and commercial construction. It consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between two sheets of paper.

Applications: Interior walls and ceilings, Non-wet areas.
Benefits: Cost-effective, Easy to install and finish.

Moisture-Resistant Drywall

Moisture-resistant drywall, often referred to as greenboard due to its green paper facing, is designed to resist moisture and humidity better than standard drywall.

Applications: Bathrooms, Basements, Laundry rooms.
Benefits: Enhanced moisture resistance, Helps prevent mold growth.

Mold-Resistant Drywall

Mold-resistant drywall, also known as purple board, has a special coating that inhibits the growth of mold and mildew, making it ideal for areas prone to dampness.

Applications: Bathrooms, Kitchens, Basements.
Benefits: Superior mold and mildew resistance, Increased durability in damp conditions.

Fire-Resistant Drywall

Fire-resistant drywall, also known as Type X or Type C drywall, contains non-combustible fibers and additives that enhance its ability to withstand high temperatures.

Applications: Garages, Utility rooms, Areas requiring fire-rated assemblies.
Benefits: Increased fire resistance, Meets building codes for fire-rated construction.

Soundproof Drywall

Soundproof drywall, sometimes called acoustic drywall, incorporates multiple layers of gypsum and other sound-dampening materials to reduce noise transmission.

Applications: Home theaters, Music studios, Bedrooms.
Benefits: Excellent sound insulation, Enhanced privacy and noise control.

Lightweight Drywall

Lightweight drywall is a newer product that is lighter than standard drywall, making it easier to handle and install, especially for overhead applications.

Applications: Ceilings, Renovation projects, High-rise buildings.
Benefits: Easier to lift and carry, Reduces worker fatigue, Simplifies installation.

Eco-Friendly Drywall

Eco-friendly drywall, also known as recycled drywall, is made from recycled materials and designed to have a lower environmental impact.

Applications: Sustainable building projects, LEED-certified buildings.
Benefits: Environmentally friendly, Supports sustainable construction practices.

Blue Board Drywall

Blue board drywall is designed specifically for use with veneer plastering, featuring a special paper that bonds well with plaster.

Applications: High-end finishes, Custom wall textures.
Benefits: Smooth, durable surface, Ideal for high-quality plaster finishes.

Paperless Drywall

Paperless drywall, also known as fiberglass drywall, uses a fiberglass mat instead of paper, making it more resistant to mold and water damage.

Applications: Wet areas, Basements, Exterior sheathing.
Benefits: Enhanced mold and water resistance, Greater durability.

Flexible Drywall

Flexible drywall is thinner and designed to bend easily, allowing it to be used in curved applications.

Applications: Archways, Curved walls and ceilings, Design features.
Benefits: Easily bends to fit curves, Adds architectural interest.